Director of Government Affairs

Job Summary

Ready to lead and shape public policy that reduces food insecurity across Oklahoma? In this changemaker role, you serve as the organization’s lead on public policy strategy and external advocacy, translating community experience and organizational insight into clear, evidence-based policy priorities while building strong relationships with elected officials and partners. You balance research, communication and coalition work to help decision-makers understand how public systems impact access to food and economic stability. What success looks like in the first 6–12 months includes establishing engaged statewide advocacy networks, documenting and aligning policy priorities across teams, strengthening policymaker understanding of hunger and food bank roles and delivering timely, accessible and accurate advocacy materials.

Day in the Life

Building Advocacy Networks

Create and sustain a statewide group of advocates focused on policies that reduce food insecurity.
Form and maintain coalitions to improve access to food and reduce poverty.
Encourage coordination between private and public entities addressing food and economic insecurity.
Represent the organization in policy-related groups, committees and advisory settings.
Guide neighbor engagement and organizing efforts, including Magnify Oklahoma initiatives.
Communication and Education

Inform and engage people in advocacy efforts connected to hunger and public policy.
Build awareness and deepen understanding of food insecurity among partners, community members and policymakers.
Educate partner agencies, lawmakers and the community on hunger drivers and policy solutions.
Create educational materials on specific issues for legislators and policymakers.
Work with media outlets to explain hunger issues and policy effects on food access.
Educate elected officials on the role of food banks in addressing hunger.
Policy Advocacy and Research

Maintain communication with state, federal and local elected officials and their staff.
Monitor and track laws and regulations that affect food and economic security in Oklahoma.
Review policies and rules to inform sound policy conclusions.
Coordinate and support the board’s policy advisory function.
Develop evidence-based policy recommendations that improve access to food and strengthen economic security.
Coordinate policy focus areas and messaging with partner organizations.
Educate policymakers and stakeholders through meetings and visits throughout Oklahoma and Washington, D.C.
Resource Optimization and Administration

Prepare research materials that inform community understanding of hunger issues.
Ensure internal teams communicate consistently about hunger and policy priorities.
Write and edit issue briefs, speeches, reports and notes as needed.
Manage the public policy budget and oversee advocacy-related grant funding.
Provide direction and feedback to the Advocacy and Policy Specialist.