ISEA Policy Manager

~ Established in 1975, the Illinois Solar Energy Association (ISEA) advocates for supportive clean energy policies in Illinois. ~

As a member based organization, ISEA is supported by over 400 individuals and 200 businesses representing all market segments and numerous support services. ISEA has long served as the voice for solar in the state through its dual mission of education and advocacy.

Position Overview

The ISEA Policy Manager position is a permanent full-time role.

The Policy Manager will be responsible for assisting in the development and leading the execution of a statewide strategic policy and government relations plan for the Illinois Solar Energy Association. This position will be accountable for ensuring that policies, legislation, and regulation are conducive to a positive business environment for the solar industry.

The successful candidate must possess critical, well developed skills in policy development. These skills include drafting legislation and regulations, as well as policy analysis, such as understanding cost and/or value of policies to the industry. Polished public presentation skills are also essential.

The Policy Manager will function as a lobbyist as needed and liaison with diverse parties including members and staff of all levels of government, ensuring that all identified policies and interests are advocated.

Responsibilities

• Develop policy positions on behalf of the organization with assistance from the membership, association committee chairs, and board of directors
• Develop work plans and plans of action for policy positions consistent with the organization’s Strategic Plan
• Act as a representative of the Illinois Solar Energy Association and its member businesses in legislative and regulatory arenas
• Coordinate the Association’s activities in conjunction with an annual policy, regulatory, and legislative agenda
• Work with outside counsel, contract lobbyists and technical consultants as needed.
• Represent the organization’s interests at public meetings and forums as applicable to the adoption and enactment of public policies by local and state governmental bodies
• Provide staff support to the Executive Director on initiatives and efforts related to economic development
• Other duties as assigned

Qualifications

• Top candidates should have three to five years successful background in public policy, government affairs, or regulatory affairs with proven results
• Professional experience in public policy advocacy, research, and analysis
• Proven experience in planning and implementing public policy events/agenda, or other advocacy activities
• Experience with local, state, and federal legislative bodies and understanding of nuances of local government municipalities and agencies, state and federal political environment
• Background in political campaigns and PAC fundraising a plus
• Local and statewide knowledge of the political environment an asset
• Proven coalition building skills; demonstrated skill and comfort proactively building relationships with member businesses, public officials, reporters and editors, community leaders, and the public
• Outstanding written and verbal skills and high comfort level in public speaking and media relations
• Solid experience in media relations and making position statements before elected officials and other leadership bodies
• Willingness to present before the Board of Directors, city council, and diverse audiences with political savvy regarding rules, regulations, policy positions, and legislative advocacy
• High level communicator with experience in traditional and digital media platforms to compose regular communication pieces for electronic and print purposes
• Willingness to work beyond normal work day and possible weekend hours as necessary
• Able to travel as needed
• Positive attitude and advanced work ethic
• Successful candidate will preferably be located in the greater Chicago area
• Bachelor's degree required

Compensation

• Salary is commensurate with experience.

To Apply

• Please click "Apply" below to upload your cover letter, resume, and writing sample with the subject line “ISEA Policy & Advocacy Manager Application” as the subject line of the email.
• No calls; direct applicants only, no search or placement firms.
• Applications will be accepted through January 21, 2019.