The Government Affairs Manager plays a pivotal role in championing our organization's advocacy and government affairs initiatives. Tasked with fostering strong relationships with local, state, and federal officials, this role serves as a crucial liaison between OHI and governmental bodies. In addition to monitoring legislative and regulatory developments at the federal, state, and local levels, the Government Affairs Manager represents OHI in interactions with industry partners and coalitions. With a focus on advancing our membership's interests and promoting our organization's goals, this position is integral to shaping our impact on policy and advocacy efforts.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Legislative and Regulatory Monitoring: Regularly monitor federal and state legislation and regulations relevant to the outdoor hospitality industry. Provide actionable and timely intelligence to the organization, membership, and state leaders regarding legislative developments.
  
  
• Member Assistance: Assist members with navigating federal, state, and local issues, including engagement with various authorities having jurisdiction, such as state, city, county, and planning and zoning agencies.
  
  
• Legislative Initiatives: Collaborate on legislative efforts aimed at achieving various federal legislation, nationwide adoption of National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) 1194 standards and statewide legislation including inherent risk and guest ejection in all 50 states.
  
  
• Industry and Coalition Partnerships: Work closely with industry and coalition partners, including offices of outdoor recreation, Outdoor Recreation Roundtable, and more, to foster alliances and amplify advocacy efforts on shared interests and objectives.
  
  
• Government Agency Engagement: Cultivate relationships with government agencies to advance OHI's government affairs positions on behalf of our membership, serving as a trusted liaison.
  
  
• Position Development: Assist in the development and maintenance of OHI position statements articulating the organization's stance on key issues, providing clarity and guidance for advocacy efforts. Assist in the development of informative documents, resources, and materials to support advocacy initiatives and educate stakeholders on relevant issues.
  
  
• Software Platform Management: Maintain and enhance the efficiency of Fiscal Note and Voter Voice software platforms, leveraging technology to streamline advocacy efforts and facilitate member engagement.
  
  
• Grassroots Campaigns: Create grassroots campaigns in Fiscal Note/Voter Voice and work collaboratively with the OHI marketing and membership teams and advocacy workgroup to mobilize members and stakeholders in support of key legislative priorities and initiatives.

Education and Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in Political Science or a related field is required. The qualifications and competencies for this position may be verified through a combination of education, experience, interview questions, and technical skills exercise(s).
• Minimum four (4) years of experience or relevant issue-specific work experience, i.e. at a trade association, nonprofit, government agency, legislative office, or with a public affairs/lobbying firm.
• Demonstrated skill and comfort in proactively building relationships with government officials.
• Extensive experience with Fiscal Note, Voter Voice or similar grassroots software programs.

Skills and Abilities Required

• Strong knowledge and in-depth understanding of the federal legislative and regulatory process and congressional committee structure preferred.
• Excellent verbal and written communication and interpersonal skills, including experience in giving public presentations.
• Excellent people/networking skills; natural political acumen.
• Ability to exercise good judgment, sound reasoning skills and discretion in making independent decisions commensurate with responsibilities.
• Ability to gather and interpret information quickly.
• Strong organizational, problem-solving and critical/strategic thinking skills.
• Familiarity with outdoor hospitality industry is highly desirable.

About OHI

OHI is a member-driven organization dedicated to serving and advancing the RV parks, campgrounds, glamping businesses that make up the Outdoor Hospitality Industry. We provide the voice, tools, and training to advance the owners, operators, and staff of all the remarkable and unique Outdoor Hospitality businesses that shape the life-long memories of their adventuring customers.

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