Director, State Affairs

Become a pivotal leader as the

Director, State Affairs

at the

American Seed Trade Association . This role drives the association’s efforts to monitor, analyze, and respond to state‑level legislative and regulatory activities impacting the seed and agribusiness sectors.

Responsibilities

Track, analyze, and report on state legislation and regulations that affect the seed industry, with emphasis on seed research, production, distribution, and use, as well as other key agriculture matters.

Provide timely intelligence and updates to the ASTA government affairs team, association leadership, members, and other key stakeholders.

Develop and implement coordinated state affairs strategies to address emerging policy issues.

Collaborate with the appropriate association leadership and member company representatives to shape policy positions, talking points, and advocacy campaigns.

Build and enhance relationships with state policymakers, regulators, and industry coalitions to advance seed industry priorities.

Manage state and regional contractors, including execution and oversight, and ensure appropriate coordination between contractors and relevant industry partners.

Serve as liaison with members on state policy matters, providing guidance, analysis, and advocacy support.

Coordinate grassroots mobilization efforts to engage members in legislative outreach.

Organize and facilitate state policy committees, working groups, and task forces.

Represent the association before state legislatures, agencies, and allied organizations.

Strengthen relationships with state / regional trade associations and agricultural organizations to align efforts and share intelligence.

Participate in national and regional meetings, conferences, and events on behalf of the association.

Anticipate and assess potential policy risks and opportunities for the industry.

Prepare policy briefs, position papers, advocacy materials and regular reports to senior leadership and the board on state legislative activities and outcomes.

Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree in political science, public policy, agriculture, or related field (advanced degree preferred).

Five to seven plus years of experience in government affairs, state policy, or related advocacy roles.

Strong knowledge of state legislative and regulatory processes; experience in agriculture or agribusiness preferred.

Demonstrated ability to analyze complex policy issues and develop clear strategies.

Exceptional written and verbal communication skills.

Ability to build and maintain relationships and work in a dynamic team environment.

Ability to work independently and proactively.

Ability to manage multiple priorities and work effectively with diverse stakeholders.

Willingness to travel frequently to engage with state policymakers and association members.

Core Competencies

Strategic thinking and problem‑solving

Strong organizational skills

Strong political and policy acumen

Coalition building and stakeholder management

Member service orientation

Please send a resume, cover letter, and references to ajorss@betterseed.org. Salary is competitive and commensurate with experience.

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