Manager, Government Relations & Public Policy

Job Description

Manager, Government Relations & Public Policy

POSITION SUMMARY & FUNCTIONS:

Under the direction of the Chief Operations Officer, perform a wide variety of duties to direct activities related to the advocacy of the Community Health Center Association of Connecticut and its member Federally Qualified Health Centers (“FQHC’s”). Promote FQHC’s and the policies that support them, their patients, and the mission and vision of CHCACT among government officials, legislators, and community partners.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

• Guides the development of CHCACT’s policy agenda, working closely with senior staff, board and committee members, and other stakeholders as appropriate.
• Serves as liaison/point of contact about health related and FQHC related topics with elected and appointed local, state and national public officials, FQHC staff/leadership, and community partners.
• Collaborates with government affairs colleagues (included but not limited to those at medical associations, public health organizations, patient advocacy groups, and government agencies) to create and support policies and issues with mutual impact.
• Advocate for public policies that positively impact FQHCs and their patients.
• Research, inform, and coordinate CHCACT and CT FQHC efforts around advocacy and public policy.
• Represent CHCACT and FQHCs on coalitions, task forces, boards and work groups to share information relevant to health centers and their patients; coordinate advocacy efforts; strengthen relationships with community partners; and plan for future health care policy and payment efforts.
• Serves as resource to FQHC leadership and other stakeholders about relevant news, data and current and proposed public policies and legislative affairs.
• Manage CHCACT activities that support FQHC outreach and enrollment efforts.
• Perform any other department or agency-related duties or special projects as directed by supervisor.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES: None.

QUALIFICATIONS: To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skills, and/or abilities required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

COMPETENCIES:

• Demonstrated knowledge and understanding to the unique characteristics of a non-profit, grant funded organization.
• Understanding of health policy, with experience in both legislative and administrative advocacy.
• Strong understanding of payor issues, including Medicaid, Medicare, the Affordable Care Act, and current health care debate issues.
  Manager, Government Relations & Public Policy
• Ability to maintain strict confidentiality.
• Able to translate objectives and data into action among internal and external stakeholders.
• Must have excellent organizational skills. Ability to multi-task, manage and prioritize various and differing projects, as well as work effectively toward numerous deadlines.
• Excellent interpersonal skills and listening skills. Must be able to form alliances with all levels of individuals within various agencies, FQHC leaders, and funding partners.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills in multiple formats. Able to make succinct and persuasive presentations in a professional setting.
• Proficient use of computer systems and software, including MS Office Suite, various software programs and databases, etc.

EDUCATION AND/OR EXPERIENCE:
Bachelor’s degree, preferably in public policy, public health or equivalent academic area. 5-7 years of related experience. Experience may be considered in lieu of education.

PHYSICAL AND VISUAL REQUIREMENTS:
While performing the duties of this job, the individual is regularly required to use computers and office equipment, manipulate documents and move about the office. The employee may occasionally move materials up to 25 pounds.

LANGUAGE SKILLS:
The position requires the ability to read, and interpret financial reports, and legal contracts and documents. Must have ability to effectively speak before groups and present training to all types of audiences.

MENTAL DEMANDS AND REASONING ABILITIES:
Job requires the ability to focus, attention to detail at times and thoroughness in completing work goals. The ability to analyze information, formulate diverse solutions and make decisions using logic to address work-related issues is required.

WORK ENVIRONMENT/TRAVEL:
The incumbent regularly performs work in an office environment as well as at FQHC sites. Travel (up to 50%) may be required to attend meetings throughout the state.

Note:
This position description has excluded the marginal functions of the position that are incidental to the performance of fundamental job duties. All duties and responsibilities are essential job functions and requirements. To perform this job successfully, the incumbent(s) will possess the skills, aptitudes, and abilities to perform each duty proficiently. The requirements listed in this document are the minimum levels of knowledge, skills, or abilities.

This job description in no way states or implies that these are the only duties to be performed by the employee(s) incumbent in this position. The Association reserves the right to modify, change or add to the position’s job duties and responsibilities as business needs may require.

This document does not create an employment contract, implied or otherwise, other than an “at will” relationship.