Salary range: $110,000 to $120,000
Overview: The Chattanooga Area Chamber of Commerce is the lead economic development organization for the Chattanooga, Tennessee region. We are a high-impact, inclusive, and forward-thinking organization focused on building a thriving regional economy. We are seeking a politically astute, strategic leader who is passionate about public policy, community engagement, and inclusive economic growth.
Job Description: The Vice President of Public Policy & Community Engagement leads and coordinates the Chamber’s government relations and public policy efforts at the local, state, and federal levels. The position also oversees the Chamber’s leadership development programs, including Leadership Chattanooga, and manages inter-city visits focused on generating aspirational ideas and projects for the Chattanooga region.
The successful candidate will be an accomplished leader with strong relationships across the public and private sectors, a demonstrated ability to work effectively with elected officials, business leaders, and volunteers, and a commitment to advancing the Chamber’s public policy priorities. This role works collaboratively across the organization to support the Chamber’s strategic plan and guiding principles of economic mobility, an inclusive economy, and collaborative leadership.
Key Responsibilities:
- Lead and coordinate all government relations and public policy strategies for the Chamber at the local, state, and federal levels.
- Organize public policy events, legislative engagement activities, and inter-city visits.
- Cultivate and maintain strong relationships with elected officials, business leaders, community partners, and other key stakeholders.
- Oversee the Chamber’s leadership development programs, including Leadership Chattanooga, and support inclusive leadership practices.
- Serve as staff liaison to the Public Policy Committee and support the development and execution of the Chamber’s legislative agenda.
- Collaborate with Chamber staff and external partners to advance business advocacy, workforce development, and economic growth initiatives.
- Represent the Chamber in public forums and governmental settings, directly and/or in coordination with partners, as appropriate.
Required Qualifications:
- Bachelor’s degree in political science, public administration, or a related field, or an equivalent combination of education and relevant experience.
- Five or more years of progressively responsible experience in public policy, government relations, advocacy, or a related field.
- Demonstrated ability to build and maintain effective relationships with elected officials, business leaders, and community stakeholders.
- Strong written and verbal communication skills and the ability to represent the organization professionally.
- Ability to travel independently to meetings and events, with or without reasonable accommodation.
- Eligibility to register as a lobbyist.
Preferred Qualifications:
- Event management experience.
- Experience working with State of Tennessee elected officials or governmental entities and political action committees.
- Experience working in or with a chamber of commerce, nonprofit, or economic development organization.
- Advanced degree in political science, public administration, or a related field.
Equal Opportunity Employer: The Chattanooga Area Chamber of Commerce is an equal opportunity employer and values a diverse workforce. We encourage candidates of all backgrounds, experiences, and abilities to apply.
To Apply: Please submit a cover letter and resume, combined into one PDF file to:
Attn: Yolonda Hayslett, VP, Finance & Operations
Email: [email protected]
