The VP of External Affairs will oversee strategic public and governmental cooperation efforts for the

healthcare system. This position builds partnerships with local and state leaders in order to achieve business

goals. Utilizing a data driven engagement strategy, this position leverages cross industry partnerships, plans,

organizes and executes programs that will enhance the healthcare system’s relationships and association with

the legislature, state and federal agencies, key stakeholders, industry employees and the public.

• Serve as a member of senior leadership team responsible for setting and executing organizational strategy and policy
• Monitor and evaluate state legislation and other governmental actions and initiatives.
• Manage the review of, and response to, said legislation, etc.
• Provide regular reports to the President/CEO and Senior Leadership on the status of pending legislation affecting the healthcare system
• Foster strategic partnerships, and expand relationships with policy makers, industry leaders, and other influencers and stakeholders
• Build and maintain strong relationships with funders, members, prospective donors, and partners
• Help the organization make progress on strategy, advance change agenda and serve the field in the areas of culture, racial equity, and organizational structure and talent
• Ensure branding, communications, and marketing efforts successfully support organizational goals
• The successful candidate must be able to translate strategic plans into specific short- and long-term objectives and define metrics and accountabilities. The VP, external affairs will be the brand champion at all levels of the organization
• Operating through influence, they will facilitate the building of strong relationships with senior management and employees across the organization. They also will cultivate productive internal and external relationships across key stakeholder groups, and lead and influence across functional teams effectively.

Education

• Bachelor’s Degree in Healthcare, Business Administration, Political Science, Communications/Public Relations or other relevant field required.
• Master’s Degree in Healthcare, Business Administration, Political Science, Communications/Public Relations or other relevant field preferred.

Minimum Work Experience

Minimum 7 years Progressive Experience in Business, Corporate Communications, Healthcare Administration, Political Strategy, or other relevant field required

Required Skills, Knowledge, and Abilities

• In-depth knowledge and understanding of industry operations, government operations, and statutory and regulatory requirements to which the industry is subject.
• Experience working on advocacy projects, political campaigns, or previous corporate strategy functions
• Ability to Travel As Required 
• Ability to mediate, negotiate, and settle disputes among public agencies
• Strong writing and editing experience, including experience with online and social media outlets. 
• Strong verbal skills. Articulate. Concise. 
• Ability to understand and maintain confidentiality. 
• Ability to establish working relationships with local, state and federal officials, as well as the press and public. Current relationships with legislative leadership and staff is preferred.