Experienced Regional Legislative & Policy Advocate – Remote Opportunity to Drive Healthcare Policy and Advocacy in the Southern United States

Introduction to Delta Dental and Our Mission

At Delta Dental, we are passionate about improving the oral health of our communities and shaping the future of healthcare policy. As a leading dental insurance provider, we recognize the importance of advocacy and policy influence in driving positive change. Our team is dedicated to promoting oral health, expanding access to care, and supporting the development of effective healthcare policies. We are now seeking an experienced Regional Legislative & Policy Advocate to join our team and play a critical role in advancing our mission in the Southern United States.

About the Role

The Regional Legislative & Policy Advocate will be responsible for establishing and maintaining Delta Dental's influence and advocacy with state legislatures and regulators in the Southern United States, including Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Louisiana, and Mississippi. This individual will develop a deep understanding of the legislative landscape, identifying, monitoring, and analyzing legislative proposals, and using those insights to recommend and carry out advocacy efforts to mitigate or support legislation as needed. The successful candidate will be a thought leader in their region, overseeing and assigning tasks to lobbyists in their assigned states and collaborating with cross-functional teams to drive business objectives.

Key Responsibilities

• Monitor and track health insurance legislative activity on a wide range of topics, checking for applicability to dental and opportunities or requirements for advocacy in the company's interest.
• Create and execute on a plan to increase Delta Dental's presence with key stakeholders through in-person legislative and regulatory visits, fundraiser attendance, dental association sponsored events, and events with local chambers of commerce.
• Translate the enterprise-wide government affairs strategy into a targeted strategy for assigned region and lead its execution, including creating state-by-state plans to advance enterprise interests and support regional sales objectives.
• Coordinate advocacy, research, and other similar efforts with support of in-state lobbyist as necessary; including development of the scope of (advocacy) research, assistance in drafting lobbying plans at the local and state level, and managing outreach to educate and advocate for policies that support enterprise strategic initiatives.
• Provide oversight to legislative and political lobbyists, and make recommendations to Manager regarding their performance and assignments.
• Coordinate and participate in grassroots activities such as industry conference calls, in-person meetings, letter writing campaigns, and appearances before legislative/regulatory bodies to offer testimony.
• Develop and maintain strong relationships with divisional colleagues and other business partners to support enterprise objectives and resolve issues, including advising the business on specific queries and emerging policy trends, providing thought leadership, supporting broker education, and gaining expertise in various areas to support business needs.
• Establish, maintain, and nurture good working relationships with legislators, regulators, and other policymakers at the state and federal level in order to facilitate the business interests and foundation activities of the enterprise.
• Represent the enterprise and support trade associations (DDPA/NADP/AHIP) at policy conferences and events as needed.
• Accept special projects upon request to support the team's ability to provide insight and thought leadership on an assortment of topics.

Qualifications and Skills

To be successful in this role, you will need:

• A Bachelor's degree and a minimum of 4 years of related experience in legal affairs, government affairs, public policy, or similar; direct experience in policy and/or advocacy work highly preferred.
• Ability to build and maintain long-term relationships with lobbyists and other stakeholders.
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills to evaluate business processes and recommend effective solutions.
• Legal research and analysis skills, with the ability to interpret and apply legislative and regulatory requirements.
• In-depth knowledge of the legislative process and experience working with state and federal policymakers.
• Organization and time management skills, including the ability to multi-task while maintaining attention to detail.
• Computer skills, including Word, Excel, SharePoint, Westlaw, FiscalNote, and other relevant software applications.
• Knowledge of and ability to execute process and data-driven structured analysis techniques.
• Highly effective oral, written, and interpersonal communication skills; demonstrated ability to effectively and comfortably interact at all corporate and political levels.
• A general understanding of healthcare and insurance operations, with the ability to apply this knowledge to drive policy and advocacy efforts.

Career Growth and Development Opportunities

At Delta Dental, we are committed to supporting the growth and development of our employees. As a Regional Legislative & Policy Advocate, you will have access to a range of training and development opportunities, including:

• Professional development courses and workshops to enhance your policy and advocacy skills.
• Mentorship and coaching from experienced professionals in the field.
• Opportunities to participate in industry conferences and events, and to engage with trade associations and other stakeholders.
• A collaborative and dynamic work environment that encourages innovation and creativity.

Work Environment and Company Culture

Our company culture is built on a foundation of integrity, respect, and teamwork. We value diversity and inclusion, and are committed to creating a work environment that is welcoming and supportive of all employees. As a remote worker, you will be part of a virtual team that is connected through technology and a shared commitment to our mission. You will have the flexibility to work from home, with occasional travel to our offices or to attend industry events.

Compensation and Benefits

We offer a competitive salary and benefits package, including:

• A comprehensive health insurance plan, including medical, dental, and vision coverage.
• A 401(k) retirement savings plan, with company matching contributions.
• A generous paid time off policy, including vacation, sick leave, and holidays.
• Opportunities for professional development and growth, including training and education programs.

Conclusion

If you are a motivated and experienced policy and advocacy professional looking for a new challenge, we encourage you to apply for this exciting opportunity. As a Regional Legislative & Policy Advocate at Delta Dental, you will have the chance to make a real difference in the lives of our customers and communities, while advancing your career and developing your skills. Don't miss out on this opportunity to join our team and help shape the future of healthcare policy in the Southern United States. Apply now and take the first step towards a rewarding new role.

How to Apply

To apply for this position, please submit your application through our website. We look forward to hearing from you and exploring how you can contribute to our team's success.