Midwest Government Relations Director for Policy & Impact

DentaQuest; Lansing (MI); Hybrid; USD 120,000 - 180,000; Full time

Job summary

DentaQuest is seeking a Director of Government Relations for the Midwest to lead lobbying efforts, build state-level policy strategies, and manage relationships with officials. This role requires coordinating with cross-functional teams to influence policy, financing, and regulatory outcomes affecting health insurance and Medicaid in the region.

The candidate will travel up to 80% and guide advocacy efforts across multiple states, ensuring consistent messaging and adherence to ethics rules while

Qualifications

• BA/BS degree (political science or communications preferred).
• 7+ years minimum experience in lobbying or related fields.
• Experience with highly regulated industries.
• Knowledge of state and federal regulations affecting commercial insurance and Medicaid.
• Strong interpersonal and communications skills, including written and verbal.
• Ability to manage multiple projects and lead consultants.

Responsibilities

• Develop state-specific strategies and execute lobbying efforts to influence legislation and policy proposals.
• Maintain relations with Executive Branch officials and state legislators in the Midwest.
• Collaborate with sales, business development, and client services to drive new business and market strategies.
• Evaluate and advocate for program financing models at the state level.
• Represent the organization at major trade and government conferences.
• Adhere to state lobbying and ethics rules and educate internal stakeholders.
• Coordinate and supervise contract lobbyists within the region.
• Develop state-specific advocacy materials with policy advisors.
• Work cross-functionally with DentaQuest Partnership and consultants.

Skills

Lobbying/Policy advocacy

Stakeholder management

Policy analysis

Communication skills

Leadership and team coordination

Cross-functional collaboration

Education

BA/BS degree (political science or communications preferred)

Job description

DentaQuest is seeking a Director of Government Relations for the Midwest to lead lobbying efforts, build state-level policy strategies, and manage relationships with officials. This role requires coordinating with cross-functional teams to influence policy, financing, and regulatory outcomes affecting health insurance and Medicaid in the region.

The candidate will travel up to 80% and guide advocacy efforts across multiple states, ensuring consistent messaging and adherence to ethics rules while