Director of Legislative & Political Affairs

The Director of Legislative & Political Affairs collaborates with the Chief External Affairs Officer in all aspects of the Association’s advocacy efforts. This role helps raise awareness and protect the value of the CPA license and other advocacy initiatives.

Reports to: Chief External Affairs Officer

Direct Report(s): Manager of Legislative & Political Affairs

This is a hybrid position. Candidate must be able to work from the Tallahassee office at least 3x a week. 

Key Duties and Responsibilities:

• Assists the CEAO and CEO in the formulation and execution of FICPA legislative affairs, political activities, and advocacy plans.
• Serves as part of the FICPA internal lobby team and is a registered lobbyist.
• In coordination with the CEAO, directs and leads implementation of the legislative affairs strategies and plan in the legislative and political process taking a lead role in coordinating daily lobby activities between internal and external lobbyists during the legislative session and committee weeks. 
• In coordination with the CEAO, leads the development and implementation of strategies for strong growth and political effectiveness of the CPA/PAC(s) and helps ensure compliance with all applicable Florida laws and statutes.
• Participates in and observes legislative committee sessions, staying informed of critical developments and events.
• Directs the daily tracking, monitoring, and calendaring of FICPA legislation and amendments.
• Directs the department committee staff liaison duties and serves as a primary staff liaison to committees and workgroups as deemed appropriate.
• In coordination with the CEAO, leads strategies that cultivate and develops relationships with legislators and legislative staff to enhance engagement.
• Builds strategies for grassroots engagement, building the political strength of the profession and connecting local CPAs with lawmakers and state leaders. 
• Collaborates on the creation and execution of legislative communication plans and strategies, including development of talking points, one-pagers, and other materials to support FICPA legislative priorities and advocacy efforts.
• Generates communications content, including legislative updates, articles, and social media posts.
• Follows political and legislative events closely and serves as a key subject matter expert on advocacy issues for FICPA leadership.
• Fosters relationships with key members, leadership, and contributes to the expansion of CPA Key Person Contact (KPC) initiatives.
• In coordination with the CEAO, develops and directs strategies that increase FICPA’s relationships with key legislators and leadership and contributes to the expansion of FICPA’s political and legislative influence in the state.
• Assists the CEAO with the annual CPA Day at the Capitol, Conferences, Chapter Events, and other advocacy and legislative partnerships and events as needed.

Sneak Peek at our Benefits: 

Half Day Friday's; 100% Paid Employee Only Health Insurance + Dependent coverage contribution; Dental Insurance; 401K w/Employer Matching; Paid Time Off; 11 Holidays; Life Insurance; Long Term Disability; and Flexible Spending Accounts. 

The FICPA is a Drug Free Workplace. Final applicants will be required to successfully pass pre-employment skills testing and a background investigation consisting of criminal history, employment, education, personal and professional references, as well as a drug screening.

To learn more about the FICPA, please visit our website at  www.ficpa.org.

 

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

The FICPA provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.

This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training.

  Experience and Education:

• Bachelor’s degree is required in political science, public policy, or a related field.
• Five to seven years of experience in advocacy, government affairs, public relations, or media relations.
• Demonstrated understanding and experience in the legislative process.
• Proficiency in public speaking and willingness for occasional travel. 

Competencies:

• Exceptional presentation skills for effectively conveying legislative updates to various audiences.
• Thorough knowledge of Florida government, legislative processes, and established relationships within the legislative sphere.
• Demonstrated prowess in lobbying activities, showcasing influence and negotiation talents.
• Outstanding interpersonal and communication skills, both written and verbal.
• Proficiency in policy, creative writing, and group presentations.
• Capacity to build trust and strong relationships with a diverse range of stakeholders.
• Sharp critical thinking, creative problem-solving abilities, and a steadfast commitment to integrity.

Essential Physical Skills:

• Must have manual dexterity to perform specific computer and electronic/mobile device functions for data collection, and use a keyboard/computer, printer, fax, copier. 
• Able to receive and act on detailed information through oral and written communication.
• Must apply finger dexterity, sufficient corrected or uncorrected vision, hearing, oral communication and critical thinking on a regular basis to perform all duties and responsibilities.
• Requires extended periods of sitting, working on the computer, and using electronic telephone devices. 
• Ability to travel via car to attend events.
• May frequently be required to stand, walk, and occasionally use arms and hands to reach. 
• Regular on-site, physical attendance may be required in multiple locations, settings, and venues.
• May also require occasional lifting and carrying of 10-20 pounds.
• Must be able to work in the primary workplace location to ensure appropriate cooperation and collaboration with coworkers in an in-person capacity to best ensure support to the Association’s membership.