Description

Position Overview

The Vice President of Advocacy (VPA) is a senior leadership role responsible for shaping and executing the Association’s legislative, regulatory, and public policy strategy across a four-state region. Reporting directly to the President & CEO, the VPA serves as a key strategic advisor to executive leadership and the Board of Trustees, ensuring LeadingAge Southeast remains a respected and influential voice on issues impacting older adults and the full continuum of aging services.

This role requires deep policy expertise, strong political acumen, and the ability to translate complex regulatory issues into clear, actionable guidance for members.

This role is based in Tallahassee, Florida, and is intended to be primarily in-person to support collaboration, team engagement, and Association operations. Limited flexibility may be available based on role responsibilities and organizational needs.

What You’ll Do

• Lead and execute comprehensive legislative and regulatory advocacy strategies aligned with the Association’s mission and strategic priorities
• Direct state-level advocacy efforts across Florida, Alabama, Louisiana, and Mississippi, coordinating federal advocacy as appropriate
• Monitor, analyze, and respond to legislative, regulatory, and political developments affecting senior living, housing, healthcare, and community-based services
• Serve as a senior advisor to the President/CEO and Board of Trustees on policy risks, opportunities, and positioning
• Build and maintain strong relationships with legislators, governors’ offices, state agencies, regulators, and key policymakers
• Manage and coordinate contract lobbyists and external advocacy resources to ensure alignment with Association priorities
• Oversee development of policy positions, testimony, comment letters, issue briefs, and formal advocacy communications
• Lead and strengthen grassroots advocacy, including member engagement, calls to action, legislative visits, and advocacy events
• Partner closely with the Communications team to ensure consistent, strategic messaging around advocacy priorities and policy wins
• Represent the Association in coalitions, stakeholder groups, and public forums
• Supervise and support advocacy staff, fostering a high-performing, collaborative, and mission-driven team
• Integrate advocacy efforts into the Association’s broader programs, operations, and member value proposition

Requirements

What We’re Looking For

Education & Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in Public Policy, Political Science, Public Administration, Law, or a related field
• Master’s degree or law degree strongly preferred
• Minimum of 10 years of progressively responsible experience in government affairs, advocacy, or public policy
• Experience in healthcare, aging services, housing, or nonprofit/association environments strongly preferred
• Experience working in a multi-state or regional advocacy role is a plus

Core Competencies

• Deep understanding of state legislative and regulatory processes
• Proven ability to develop and execute effective advocacy strategies
• Exceptional communication, writing, and relationship-building skills
• Strong analytical and strategic thinking abilities
• High level of professionalism, integrity, and sound judgment
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment