Helios HR is conducting a search for a national trade association of the forest products industry, representing pulp, paper, packaging and wood products manufacturers, and forest landowners. Our companies make products essential for everyday life from renewable and recyclable resources that sustain the environment. The forest products industry accounts for approximately 5 percent of the total U.S. manufacturing GDP. Industry companies produce about $175 billion in products annually and employ nearly 900,000 men and women, exceeding employment levels in the automotive, chemicals and plastics industries. The industry meets a payroll of approximately $50 billion and is among the top 10 manufacturing sector employers in 48 states.

PRIMARY PURPOSE OF THE POSITION:

Manage assigned federal legislative initiatives and goals for a national trade association. Ensure coordination of association lobbying efforts with overall policy goals of association members.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:

*Develop and implement legislative and political strategies as well as work plans to support goals.
*Fluency in association policies on priority issues and the ability to effectively communicate them verbally and in writing to association members, key policymakers and staff.
*Build and maintain relationships with key congressional members and staff.
*Work to ensure legislative goals are coordinated with other departments and related industry groups.
*Develop educational opportunities for federal legislators and their staff that serve to highlight the industry accomplishments.
*Maintain relationships with and coordinate with outside interest groups in coalitions and on shared federal legislative goals.

QUALIFICATIONS/SKILLS/KNOWLEDGE:

*In-depth knowledge of federal legislative process and strategic development required.
*Strong writing ability and verbal communication skills are very important.
*Knowledge of contemporary communications (Internet, email, etc.) and ability to work with Microsoft Word preferred.
*Industry knowledge is helpful.

EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS:

• College degree required.
• Ten to twelve years experience in one or more of the following fields; Capitol Hill legislative staff, government affairs office for trade association or company, /lobbying firm, policy staff/political campaigns.
• Significant experience on Agriculture and/or Natural Resources Committees preferred.
• Experience/educational background in manufacturing, environmental, and/or recycling issues also a plus.

EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER
American Forest and Paper Association is an active Equal Employment Opportunity Employer, M/F/D/V.

For immediate consideration please send resume with salary requirements to resumes@afandpa.org