California Legislative Affairs Specialist

1 week ago


Sacramento, California, United States Western Growers Full time

Overview

In your professional journey, you dedicate a significant portion of your time to your career. Make those moments impactful by joining an organization that aligns with your values. Western Growers is committed to one primary objective: ensuring the ongoing success of its members – the dedicated farmers who cultivate the fruits, vegetables, and tree nuts that nourish our nation. Our members rely on us to support their competitiveness and profitability amidst the challenges of the agricultural landscape. We are devoted to advocating for them with passion and integrity every day. Our efforts include promoting technological advancements and providing essential insurance services. We operate from a position of leadership within the agricultural sector, and this mission is driven by a team of intelligent, curious, and innovative individuals united by a common goal. Our core philosophy emphasizes that our mission begins with people. Every team member has access to research-based training that fosters our commitment to Outward Inclusion and our DEI initiatives. This training encourages employees to recognize the integration of work and personal life, highlighting the importance of achieving a healthy balance. One way we support this balance is through flexible work arrangements, including options for remote, in-office, or hybrid work. At Western Growers, we value the diverse qualities you bring to our team. Join us in our mission. Compensation: $72,186 - $98,489 with a comprehensive benefits package that includes profit-sharing.

Position Summary

The Legislative Affairs Specialist will act as the representative for Western Growers (WG) in interactions with the state Legislature, the Office of the Governor, and various state agencies and departments. The individual in this role will be responsible for thorough monitoring, analysis, reporting, and providing policy recommendations regarding legislative and regulatory issues to senior management. Additionally, this position will collaborate with contracted lobbyists and other consultants engaged for legislative, regulatory, and select legal services in California.

Required Qualifications

A BA/BS degree in law, economics, science, public policy, or political science, along with 2 to 5 years of experience in legislative or regulatory matters within state government is preferred. Proficient in conducting comprehensive research, delivering concise summaries, and making informed recommendations on complex legislative and policy issues. Moderate understanding of the fresh produce (specialty crop) industry, including vegetables, fruits, and tree nuts, or other agricultural sectors, with a demonstrated ability to advocate for a sustainable agriculture industry. Exceptional interpersonal skills with a proven track record of developing and maintaining strong working relationships with colleagues and external stakeholders. Ability to communicate and frame issues in a bipartisan manner, demonstrating sound judgment and high ethical standards. Strong writing, verbal, and presentation communication skills. Proven capability to manage projects effectively while achieving set objectives. Skilled in managing multiple projects and adapting to changing priorities with attention to detail. Intermediate proficiency in word processing, spreadsheet, calendaring, and presentation software. A clean DMV record and the ability to travel to various locations as needed, primarily within California, up to 10% of the time.

Key Responsibilities

State Advocacy Serve as the advocate for Western Growers on legislative and regulatory matters in California. Monitor, analyze, and report on policy recommendations for WG positions and associated action plans. Collaborate regularly with senior WG lobbyists and contract consultants to develop and implement effective advocacy strategies to achieve policy objectives. Assist in the development, drafting, and tactical implementation of policy strategies or legislation impacting agriculture, particularly in the fresh fruit, vegetable, and nut sectors in California. Draft formal comment letters in response to state legislation and regulatory proposals on behalf of WG, providing regular updates to senior WG staff and the WG board as needed. Address or direct incoming member inquiries to the appropriate WG staff for follow-up and resolution. Build relationships and coalitions with other industry organizations and policymakers. Political Action Assist in analyzing key California election contests, including candidates and ballot measures, and provide recommendations to the WGPAC Board. Keep key staff informed about political trends and developments. Collaborate with the communications department to engage and inform membership on relevant issues and connect with the public. Cultivate new and maintain existing legislative relationships. Additional Duties Utilize all capabilities to fulfill one mission — enhancing the competitiveness and profitability of our members. Strive to understand the goals of others, plan, and execute work collaboratively and helpfully. Be adaptable to ensure that efforts and attitudes are supportive, accountable, and result-oriented. Maintain a clean DMV record and the ability to travel to various locations as needed, primarily within California and Arizona, up to 10% of the time. Perform all other duties as assigned.

Physical Demands/Work Environment

The physical demands and work environment described here represent those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this position. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform these essential functions. While performing the duties of this role, the employee is regularly required to communicate with others. The employee frequently travels to both indoor and outdoor areas that may vary in exposure and temperature. The employee is often required to operate a motor vehicle, use tools or controls, and may need to lift up to 50 lbs. The noise level in the work environment is typically moderate.

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