Director, Government Affairs (Minnesota)

The Role 

The Director, Government Affairs (Director, GA) - MN represents the company on legislative and regulatory policy initiatives and advocacy with a focus on the company’s efforts in Minnesota.  The Director, GA works with the SVP of Government Affairs and with executive and operational teams to understand the Company’s legislative and regulatory goals and objectives, participates in the formulation of corresponding strategies for achieving those goals and objectives, and then leads the implementation of the strategies. They will also be responsible for managing outside lobbyists, representing Green Thumb in trade associations, legislative research, drafting legislative summaries, tracking and reporting on strategic objectives, and assist with the development and use of advocacy materials. As a strong communicator, they will build relationships with local, state, and federal politicians, lobbyists, business leaders, and other stakeholders. Along with demonstrated skills and experience, we are looking for a leader who welcomes solving challenging problems, has exceptional business judgment and relationship skills, and enjoys hands-on connection to the field teams. 

This role requires you to live in the state of Minnesota.

Responsibilities 

Under the direction of the SVP, the Director, GA – MN will: 

• Monitor, research and analyze proposed legislative and regulatory developments in assigned markets and potential markets and how they impact the business 
• Prepare and present verbal and written status updates on legislative, regulatory and policy developments and position papers to internal stakeholders 
• Partner with Green Thumb internal stakeholders to understand and advocate for regulatory changes that assist them 
• Draft public comment on proposed legislation and regulations to elected officials and government agencies 
• Engage with stakeholders and elected officials at the local and state level to promote Green Thumb’s objectives 
• Build a network of relevant community, advocacy, and industry organizations to support legislative and regulatory advocacy efforts. 
• Draft periodic government affairs reports 
• Assist with the development of legislative materials such as leave-behinds 
• Represent Green Thumb at meetings with legislators, regulators and local officials 
• Attend and report back on legislative hearings, briefings, and meetings, as well as other industry activities 
• Work cross-functionally with Green Thumb's regulatory counsel and compliance team when Government Affairs support is needed 
• Manage outside lobbyists and consultants to ensure they are achieving Green Thumb's objectives in an ethical manner 
• Ensure that political contributions are made in compliance with all applicable laws and that they are tracked internally 

Qualifications  

• Bachelor’s degree required 
• 6 years progressive government relations/public policy experience with a preference of high growth organizations, including private sector and public sector experience 
• Deep understanding of legislative and regulatory processes and effective public policy, political advocacy, public and industry affairs programs, coalition building and grassroots campaign management 
• Track record of legislative wins 
• Travel to assigned markets to attend key meetings (travel is expected to be significant during relevant legislative sessions or other key periods)  
• Ability to value or monetize the investment in legislative and regulatory issue management and demonstrate ROI 
• Entrepreneurial and pragmatic 
• Highly motivated, self-directed, innovative and able to work independently or among teams with keen judgement, common sense and resourcefulness 
• Adapts and thrives in a demanding, fast-paced environment 
• Possesses a high level of critical thinking 
• Operates with a high level of professionalism and integrity, including dealing with confidential information 
• Must understand and comply with the rules, regulations, policies, and procedures of Green Thumb 
• Must quickly build a solid understanding of the applicable cannabis laws, rules and regulations and have a passion to further their understanding and knowledge of the industry and the laws. 

Additional Requirements 

• Must pass any and all required background checks  
• Must be and remain compliant with all legal or company regulations for working in the industry  
• Must possess valid driver’s license 
• Must be a minimum of 21 years of age 
• Must be approved by state badging agency to work in cannabis industry

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