Deputy Director of Policy & Government Affairs

Summary of Position:

Works with HBA's Director of Government Affairs to manage the political and public policy environment affecting the local homebuilding industry. The Deputy Director actively lobbies for member priorities to support robust construction of market rate single family, multifamily, and infill housing across the Portland Metro region.

As part of the broader HBA government affairs efforts, the Deputy Director will manage day-to-day issue tracking, outreach, and advocacy for a portion of the HBA's geographic coverage area while aiding in the development of regional policy, outreach, and member engagement materials. This position works primarily at the local level, representing HBA in six counties, 40 cities, and at Metro. Occasional support for state and federal lobbying required, as needed.

Typical tasks include drafting and submitting testimony, developing outreach communications, attending in-person meetings on relevant policy issues, political advocacy in one-on-one and group settings, and participating in informational meetings with members. The Deputy Director provides staff support to HBA's Government Affairs Committee (GAC) and Portland Building and Urban Development Committee (PBUD) along with assisting in PAC organizing and fundraising efforts.

Overview of Responsibilities:

• Develop consistent and regular relationships with local elected leaders and key government staff to proactively influence land use, development, and housing regulations.
• Work to engage members and other stakeholders to expand and strengthen HBA's voice and influence on housing construction, affordability, and related issues.
• Track priority city and county meetings/issues and monitor for appropriate HBA staff and member involvement.
• Help communicate HBA positions on housing issues before Planning Commissions, City Councils, County Commissions and other elected bodies.
• Support HBA's engagement in broader business coalition work, including with local chambers and other advocacy organizations.
• Work with communications and administrative teams to ensure HBA's housing work and priorities are communicated to members and to key public stakeholder groups.
• Assist in staffing HBA's Committee-guided PAC fundraising and candidate endorsement efforts.

Qualifications:

• Understanding of local government structure and policy process in our region.
• General understanding of the development and land use practices employed by government agencies in Oregon and how those regulations impact residential construction. (preferred)
• Ability to communicate effectively via public presentations and written means.
• Capable of analyzing issues through research, dialogue, or other means while leveraging member experts to enhance our policy work.
• Able to support and advocate for the goals, policies, and values of our association on housing issues.

Experience/Education Requirements: Four-year college degree in political science, public administration, communications or relevant field preferred. Four years of professional experience with at least two years' experience working in government relations, lobbying, political action or related field. Experience in residential construction, land use or government permitting process strongly preferred and may substitute for other experience requirements. May be required to register as a lobbyist in certain jurisdictions.

Summary of HBA: We are a local non-profit trade association representing the residential building and remodeling industries in the greater Portland region. Association has approximately 650 members, a staff of 12, and a $4 million annual budget. Major activities include consumer housing shows and tours, housing policy and advocacy work, industry education and training, business development, and industry services and savings programs.

HBA is affiliated with state (OHBA) and national (NAHB) home builder associations. We also have our own charitable foundation that focuses on workforce development in the construction industry and providing housing for transitional homelessness.

Diversity and Inclusivity: HBA seeks to create an environment that welcomes and benefits from having a diverse workforce. We are an Equal Opportunity employer and do not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment based on race, color, religion, national origin, age, gender, sex, ancestry, mental or physical disability, sexual orientation, veteran status, or military status.

People will do well in our work environment who: Have an interest in and are able to support the values/needs of land development, home building and remodeling. Enjoy an active team-oriented and engaging work environment. Can work in an office where there is regular activity and member/staff interaction. Believe in the value of collectively working with staff and members to achieve goals, even when this may slow down the process.

Application Requirements: Please include a current resume and cover letter that addresses your interest in and qualifications for the position. Auto responses or resumes sent without a cover letter will not be considered.

Direct application materials and resume submissions to Ben Hemson, Director of Government Affairs at benh@hbapdx.org.