Director of State Affairs

Position Summary:

The Director of State Affairs drives the association’s efforts to monitor, analyze, and respond to state-level legislative and regulatory activities impacting the seed and agribusiness sectors. This position is responsible for developing and implementing strategies to advance the association’s state policy objectives, coordinate member company engagement, and work with state and regional partners to ensure a unified industry voice and action. This role manages the oversight and coordination of state and regional contractors, ensuring alignment with the association’s mission.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Track, analyze, and report on state legislation and regulations that affect the seed industry, with emphasis on issues impacting seed research, production, distribution, and use, as well as other key agriculture matters.
• Provide timely intelligence and updates to the ASTA government affairs team, association leadership, members, and other key stakeholders.
• Develop and implement coordinated state affairs strategies to address emerging policy issues.
• Collaborate with the appropriate association leadership and member company representatives to shape policy positions, talking points, and advocacy campaigns.
• Build and enhance relationships with state policymakers, regulators, and industry coalitions to advance seed industry priorities.
• Manage state and regional contractors, including execution and oversight, and ensure appropriate coordination between contractors and relevant industry partners.
• Serve as liaison with members on state policy matters, providing guidance, analysis, and advocacy support.
• Coordinate grassroots mobilization efforts to engage members in legislative outreach.
• Organize and facilitate state policy committees, working groups, and task forces.
• Where appropriate, represent the association before state legislatures, agencies, and allied organizations.
• Strengthen relationships with state/regional trade associations and agricultural organizations to align efforts and share intelligence.
• Participate in national and regional meetings, conferences, and events on behalf of the association.
• Anticipate and assess potential policy risks and opportunities for the industry.
• Prepare policy briefs, position papers, advocacy materials and regular reports to senior leadership and the board on state legislative activities and outcomes.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in political science, public policy, agriculture, or related field (advanced degree preferred).
• Five to seven plus years of experience in government affairs, state policy, or related advocacy roles.
• Strong knowledge of state legislative and regulatory processes; experience in agriculture or agribusiness preferred.
• Demonstrated ability to analyze complex policy issues and develop clear strategies.
• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to build and maintain relationships and work in a dynamic team environment.
• Ability to work independently and proactively.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and work effectively with diverse stakeholders.
• Willingness to travel frequently to engage with state policymakers and association members.

Core Competencies

• Strategic thinking and problem-solving
• Strong organizational skills
• Strong political and policy acumen
• Coalition building and stakeholder management
• Excellent written and verbal communication
• Member service orientation

REPORTS TO:

Vice President, Government Affairs

POSITION LOCATION:

Alexandria, VA (Flexible)

Please send a resume, cover letter, and references to ajorss@betterseed.org. Salary is competitive and commensurate with experience.