Government Affairs Specialist

Are you passionate about advocacy? Do you love the great outdoors and dream of living in a breathtaking town with hiking trails from mountains to sea, where whales and black bears are part of your back yard? Check out this opportunity at Ketchikan Indian Community in Southeast Alaska, only 90 minute flight from Seattle. Excellent total comp package, including Federal healthcare benefits.

Job Summary

The Governmental Affairs Specialist will serve as a full-time, in-house key representative for KIC to coordinate the Tribe's local, state, and federal advocacy interests. This role involves developing and maintaining relationships with government officials, monitoring legislation and policies, and collaborating with internal and external stakeholders to advance the Tribe's priorities. The Specialist will ensure that the Tribe's voice is effectively heard and considered in governmental decisions affecting its members and sovereignty.

Job Duties & Responsibilities

Advocacy and Representation:

• Coordinate KIC’s interactions with local, state, and federal government officials.
• Work with and be the Tribe’s liaison to any outside advocacy consultants.
• Advocate for policies and legislation that support the Tribe's interests, including sovereignty, economic development, health, education, and cultural preservation.
• - General support to Tribal Council roles
• Collaborate with Tribal Attorney to ensure compliance with applicable laws and regulations.

Legislative Monitoring and Analysis:

• Track and analyze legislation, regulations, and policy proposals that may impact the Tribe.
• - Monitor National groups and organizations and their key annual issues
• Provide regular updates to Tribal leadership on relevant legislative and regulatory developments.
• Develop strategic responses and position statements on key issues.

Relationship Building:

• Establish effective working relationships with government officials, agency representatives, and other stakeholders.
• Participate in coalitions and alliances with other Native American tribes and organizations to strengthen collective advocacy efforts.

Communication and Reporting:

• Consult on opportunities with governments, groups, organizations, and policymakers:
• - Maintain all consultation opportunities on a spreadsheet with summaries of subjects, dates, and deadlines.
• - Meet with the Advocacy Committee and/or the Executive Committee and the Tribal Administrator and Tribal Attorney at least monthly to review upcoming consultation opportunities, facilitate prioritization, and assist in assigning roles for attendance or written responses.
• Cultivate and maintain relationships with policy professionals and legislative consultants; organize site visits to educate policymakers.
• Communicate complex policy issues and legislative updates to tribal leadership and members clearly and concisely.
• Prepare reports, briefs, and other materials to support the Tribe's governmental affairs activities.
• Draft position papers under the direction of the Tribal Council.
• Create regular quarterly report entries in consultation with the Tribal Council to inform the organization regarding key issues and areas of interest
• Develop and implement communication strategies to enhance the Tribe’s visibility and influence.

Event Coordination and Participation:

• Plan and coordinate consultations, meetings, events, and forums with government officials and stakeholders.
• Attend and represent the Tribe at relevant conferences, workshops, and meetings.

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor's in political science, public administration, public policy, law, business, or a related field.
• Three years experience in government relations, public policy, or advocacy related to Native American or Alaskan Native tribes.
• A combination of relevant experience, education, and training may substitute for education and experience requirements yearly.
• Proof of valid driver's license with acceptable driving record.

Preferred Qualifications

• Masters in Political Science, Public Administration, Public Policy, Law, Business, or a related field.
• Five years experience in government relations, public policy, or advocacy related to Native American or Alaskan Native tribes.