Director - State Legislative Programs

Job Description

Job Description

About the Alabama Farmers Federation:

The Alabama Farmers Federation is a dynamic organization committed to promoting and safeguarding the interests of farmers and rural communities across the state. With a rich history dating back to 1921, we have been at the forefront of advocating for policies that enhance the well-being of Alabama's agricultural producers. Our organization is a diverse and collaborative community, fostering innovation and sustainable practices in the ever-evolving agricultural landscape.

Job Summary

The Director of State Legislative Programs assists the External Affairs Director in all aspects of the Alabama Farmers Federation’s state governmental affairs program. Specifically, researches, analyzes, and executes strategies to pass or defeat legislation on agricultural issues and for Alfa Insurance through input and direction of Alfa Insurance’s legal counsel. Also, aids in the implementation of the Federation’s policy development process and the implementation of the grassroots process. The Director also assists other departments in various activities of the Federation.

Responsibilities

• Research and monitor all state governmental activities that could affect Alabama Farmers Federation members and Alfa Insurance.
• Build and maintain professional relationships in all of state government (elected, appointed and staff) with a focus on the state legislative and executive branches.
• Build and maintain professional relationships with trade associations, industry representatives, and other political alliances to build coalitions in areas of common interest. 
• Research and monitor the activity of state agencies, boards, and commissions that could affect Alabama farmers based on Federation policy and Alfa Insurance.
• Working with Federation members and staff, develop strategy for strengthening relationships with elected officials and government agencies and increasing their understanding of and support for the agriculture industry in Alabama.
• Develop relationships and communicate and with the state’s land-grant universities (Auburn, Alabama A&M, and Tuskegee) and their governmental affairs representatives in state government, as well as with other university administration and faculty as appropriate. 
• Assist in endorsement process and political efforts to elect FarmPAC-endorsed candidates.

Qualifications

• College Degree Required.
• Degree in agriculture, forestry or related preferred
• 3 years of experience working in legislative/policy development preferred
• Ability and availability to work irregular days and weeks with unpredictable schedules, primarily during the legislative sessions.
• Statewide travel to meet with legislators and county Farmers Federation boards.
• Required to work out of the Federation’s home office in Montgomery, AL when the Alabama Legislature is not in session.
• Communications and organizational skills. 

Benefits/Perks

• Opportunity for annual performance bonus
• Discounts on your auto insurance (underwriting approval required)
• Benefits include: Health, dental, supplemental cancer, vision insurance and 401(k) plan
• Paid Time Off Bank to include 3 days PTO available after first 80 hours worked for New Hires
• Short-term and long-term disability
• Flexible Healthcare and Childcare spending accounts for tax savings
• Opportunities for advancement
• Continuous training and support throughout your career with Alfa
• College tuition discounts at various colleges in Alabama
• Fitness center
• Onsite cafeteria