Regulatory Policy & National Affairs Specialist
Reports to: Senior VP Governmental Relations
Position Status: Full-Time Exempt
Location: Position will report to our beautiful West Creek office in Richmond, VA and does include travel throughout the state of Virginia and DC. Relocation Assistance not available for this position.
Position Overview
This position serves as Virginia Farm Bureau's primary resource on federal regulatory and legislative matters affecting agriculture. The specialist monitors and analyzes federal and state rulemaking processes, develops policy positions, and coordinates advocacy efforts with Virginia's congressional delegation to advance Farm Bureau priorities.
Key Responsibilities
Federal Advocacy & Lobbying
- Lobby Virginia's congressional delegation on Farm Bureau policy initiatives using AFBF resources and strategic action plans
- Build and maintain relationships with congressional members and staff through tours, briefings, and ongoing engagement
- Coordinate with VFBF AgPAC Administrator on federal candidate evaluations and position analyses
- Support the VFBF President with the AFBF Resolutions Committee process
- Enhance member engagement with congressional action alerts and AFBF policy development processes
Regulatory Analysis & Compliance
- Develop and manage an annual regulatory work program focused on federal and state rulemaking affecting farmers
- Monitor, analyze, and participate in regulatory proceedings on assigned agricultural issues
- Draft formal comments on regulatory proposals based on Farm Bureau policy
- Prepare reports, presentations, and guidance materials to help farmers understand and comply with regulatory requirements
- Coordinate with Governmental Relations staff on regulatory implementation following legislative action
Member Education & Engagement
- Develop informational materials explaining the impact of national issues on Virginia farmers
- Present regulatory and legislative updates to Farm Bureau advisory committees
- Connect members with AFBF leadership development programs and national advocacy opportunities
- Facilitate research and technical studies to advance member interests in regulatory reform
Qualifications
Required:
- Bachelor's degree in Public Policy, Political Science, Agriculture, Environmental Science, or related field (Master's preferred)
- 2–5 years of experience in regulatory analysis, government relations, or policy development
- Strong understanding of federal/state regulatory processes and agricultural industry issues
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills
- Ability to interpret complex regulations and translate them into actionable guidance
- Strong organizational and project management skills
Preferred:
- Experience engaging with regulatory agencies and legislative bodies
- Familiarity with Farm Bureau policies and agricultural advocacy
- Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and presentation tools
- Demonstrated ability to build relationships with diverse stakeholders
At VA Farm Bureau, we provide an exceptional benefits package, including ongoing job development and support in all roles, paid training and continuing education reimbursement, medical and dental insurance available on your first day, generous employee 401K contribution, excellent Paid Time off (PTO) plan and more!
Virginia Farm Bureau Companies provide equal employment opportunity in all aspects of employment without regard to race, color, national origin, religion, gender, pregnancy, age, disability, orientation or veteran status.
