Director, Government Relations

SALARY RANGE: $156,400.00 - $226,812.50

GROWMARK is an agricultural cooperative serving almost 400,000 customers across North America, providing agronomy, energy, facility engineering and construction, and logistics products and services, as well as grain marketing and risk management services. Headquartered in Bloomington, Illinois, GROWMARK owns the FS trademark, which is used by its member cooperatives. GROWMARK also owns and operates SEEDWAY, the largest full-line seed company in the United States. More information is available at growmark.com.

PURPOSE AND SUMMARY STATEMENT

Provides strategic leadership for Government Relations, directing the development and execution of legislative, regulatory, and public policy strategies that protect and advance the GROWMARK System. Serves as a key advisor to executive leadership on policy risks and opportunities, while leading coordinated advocacy and stakeholder engagement efforts aligned with corporate priorities.

SUPERVISION AND LEADERSHIP

Supervises the Government Relations Manager, Government Relations Associate Manager, and Government and Regulatory Affairs Specialist.  Leads and develops staff responsible for analyzing, interpreting, and communicating legislation and regulatory information impacting the GROWMARK System, while fostering a high-performing, collaborative team environment.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS

Leads the analysis of legislative, regulatory, and trade issues impacting the GROWMARK System and advises executive leadership on risks, opportunities, and recommended courses of action. Develops and advances corporate public policy positions aligned with strategic priorities.

Directs and participates in advocacy and lobbying efforts, representing the GROWMARK System with federal, provincial, and state legislators, regulators, agencies, and industry organizations. Establishes and maintains strong relationships with key policymakers and external stakeholders.

Develops and implements strategies to promote and advance the System’s positions with legislators, regulators, and public entities. Monitors emerging issues and leads coordinated response efforts across the organization.

Partners with executive leadership, Legal, Corporate Communications, and business units to align policy strategy and ensure consistent messaging. Leads development of communication initiatives to ensure corporate and member awareness of legislative and regulatory impacts.

Builds and maintains effective relationships with industry representatives, cooperatives, and membership organizations to strengthen advocacy efforts and influence policy outcomes.

Develops and executes annual and long-range strategic plans for the Government Relations division in alignment with GROWMARK’s mission and objectives. Establishes division goals, policies, and performance measures.

Develops and administers the division’s operating budget and manages external resources, including consultants and industry partnerships.

OTHER JOB FUNCTIONS

Leads development and expansion of the GROWMARK System grassroots advocacy network, increasing employee and member engagement in public policy efforts.

Maintains current knowledge of legislative, regulatory, and industry developments relevant to the position.

Encourages, supports, and promotes innovative practices, tools, and technologies to enhance advocacy effectiveness and stakeholder engagement.

Follows GROWMARK’s Code of Conduct and Corporate Compliance Program, Environmental Health and Safety, OSHA and DOT policies and procedures, as they apply.

Performs all other duties as assigned.

REQUIREMENTS

Normally requires a college degree preferably in Political Science, Business or equivalent, and proven knowledge in the areas of Public Policy, Regulatory, Environmental, and Communications. Possesses 8-10 years of business related experience with advanced knowledge of government affairs principles and strategies.  Experience in domestic and foreign agricultural trade is recommended.

Demonstrates essential abilities including business knowledge, collaboration, communication, customer focus, decision making and skill development.

Must have and maintain a valid driver’s license and satisfactory driving record.

Strong understanding of federal, provincial, and state government, political process and issues and public policy formation.

Eligible to be a registered lobbyist as needed or required.

Proven ability to research and professionally utilize knowledge government affairs activities and programs.

Proven supervisory and team building skills and the ability to achieve results through others.

Strong communication, presentation and interpersonal skills and the ability to build and maintain strong external relationships.

Must have the ability to travel independently and overnight as needed.

Ability and willingness to participate in required training that may include education on GROWMARK’s policies and procedures and additional training as it relates to the requirements of the position. 

At GROWMARK, we are dedicated to supporting the long-term financial well-being of our employees through a fully funded pension, a cornerstone benefit that ensures security for the future. We offer a comprehensive benefits package that includes medical, dental, vision, and life insurance, along with a variety of supplemental plans like accident, critical illness, disability, hospital indemnity, and identity theft protection. To promote a healthy work-life balance, employees enjoy generous paid time off (PTO), paid holidays, and parental leave, giving you time to recharge and focus on what matters most. Additionally, our 401(k) plan with company matching helps you plan for retirement, while our free Employee Assistance Program (EAP) supports your overall well-being. Whether you're starting your career, balancing family life, or planning for retirement, our company is committed to providing employees with a comprehensive and competitive Total Rewards package that meets your needs at every stage. Benefits eligibility may vary depending on the position.

Actual compensation will be determined based on experience, location, and other factors permitted by law.  In addition to base pay, certain roles may be eligible for bonuses, incentives, and commissions.