Director, Government Affairs

Remote (Maryland, United States)

The Director, Government Affairs (Director, GA) focuses on legislative and regulatory policy initiatives and advocacy. The Director, GA works cross-functionally 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 is a remote position with up to 30% travel. The role is required to be based out of an operational Green Thumb market with preference in Connecticut, Massachusetts, Maryland, DC Area, New Jersey, New York or Northern Virginia.

Responsibilities

Under the direction of the VP, the Director, GA will:

Monitor, research and analyze proposed legislative and regulatory developments in Green Thumb’s existing markets and potential markets and how they impact the business
Advise on strategy related to potential federal legalization
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
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 when Government Affairs support is needed
Manage outside lobbyists and consultants to ensure they are achieving Green Thumb's objectives in an ethical manner
Represent Green Thumb in state or federal trade associations
Ensure that political contributions are made in compliance with all applicable laws and that they are tracked internally

Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree required
8 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 our markets to attend key meetings
Past experience in cannabis advocacy preferred
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 have a solid understanding of the cannabis laws, rules and regulations and 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