Government Affairs and Strategic Partnerships Liaison

GENERAL STATEMENT OF DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Serves as agency Government Affairs Liaison, including establishing and maintaining collegial relationships with Massachusetts elected officials at the state, federal, and municipal levels. Monitors proposed legislation that affects libraries and provides information to necessary stakeholders. Works closely with advocacy groups in the library community, creative and cultural sector, and with nonprofits. Ensures information is shared with the Library Legislative Caucus, agency staff, and Commissioners.

As the Strategic Partnerships Liaison, seeks partnerships, sponsorships, and collaborations with organizations whose missions align with the MBLC’s mission. Identifies and cultivates high-level partnerships that can help advance the work of libraries and of the agency. Works closely with the Director, Communications Director, and Grants Manager on programs within their purviews.

This is a hybrid role, with partial in-office and partial offsite work.

DETAILED STATEMENT OF DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

1. Works closely with the Director and Communications Director on governmental issues, including legislative and budget strategies.
2. Creates, maintains, and strengthens relationships with state and federal elected officials.
3. Cultivates strategic partnerships with agencies and organizations within state government and externally.
4. Performs legislative-related duties including but not limited to:

·        Addressing members of the legislature, municipal officials, and library officials about agency programs and policies; preparing reports.

·        Establishing and maintaining relationships and frequent communication with the Library Legislative Caucus.

·        Maintaining collegial relationships with representatives of other state agencies and organizations.

·        Establishing and maintaining relationships with other legislative liaisons in federal, state, and local agencies and offices and at other state library administrative agencies.

·        Researching and drafting communications to legislators, stakeholders, and other groups on matters of interest.

·        Attending State House events, hearings, and legislative sessions as needed.

·        Tracking proposed legislation that affects libraries and preparing updates for agency staff, board, and the library community.

·        Monitoring the Commonwealth’s fiscal outlook, revenue collections, and other data points that inform agency and library budget forecasts.

·        Working closely with the Communications Director to draft the annual Legislative Agenda/budget request materials, news stories that have political interest, and other similar communications.

·        Serving as liaison to the Massachusetts Library Association’s Legislative Committee and library advocacy groups across the Commonwealth.

·        Scheduling, planning, and organizing legislative events. Communicating and coordinating staff and Commissioner representation at legislative breakfasts and other events.

5. Closely monitors legislative activity relating to libraries and to the specific programs of the Board