Position may be based anywhere in California

VITAS Innovative Hospice Care is a national leader in the hospice industry for more than 30 years, with annual revenues approaching $1 billion, and more than 9,000 respected professionals who are experts in their field.

We are seeking a forward thinking professional to fill the position of Director of Public Affairs. The Director will be responsible for the development, management and coordination of hospice legislative and regulatory activities in the mid-western and western United States where there is, or is anticipated to be, a VITAS presence (currently CA, CO, KS and MO).

The successful candidate in this position will:
 

• Work collaboratively with VITAS' operations management to develop regulatory, legislative and political strategies of specific operational relevance where success will achieve tangible benefits to one or more of VITAS' hospice programs.
• Represent VITAS before industry groups, legislative forums and regulatory venues to support VITAS' programmatic objectives.
• Establish relationships with key state and federal legislators and their staff.
• Develop and maintain strategic relationships with principals and staff of state and federal regulatory agencies.
• Develop and implement advocacy strategies with regulatory, state, licensing and accrediting organizations to improve access and reimbursement for quality end-of-life care.
• Define and negotiate policy interpretations that directly or indirectly affect VITAS' operating objectives.
• Promote the inclusion of hospice into future policy development by related end-of-life organizations.

The successful candidate in the position will  possess:
 

• 5 years of external affairs, government affairs or related advocacy experience
• Proven track record building coalitions and working effectively within corporate environments and with advocacy organizations and think-tanks
• Excellent research, communications, and writing skills
• Ability to manage multiple projects and meet deadlines with consistently high quality work product
• Conversant in state and federal healthcare policy issues and be able to assess, track and advise on developing issues
• Bachelor's Degree (Master's preferred)

Approximately 25% travel is required. In return for your talent and dedication, we'll provide our full support and reward your commitment with competitive compensation, and comprehensive benefits, including Health/Dental/Vision/Life Insurance, 401K with company match, EAP, employee discounts and more.

To apply to this exceptional opportunity, please visit www.vitas.jobs, keywords: 14726. Candidates residing in California strongly preferred.

EOE/AA/M/F/D/V Drug-Free Workplace

SOURCE: PUBLIC AFFAIRS COUNCIL 10/31/11