Director, State Government Affairs

UnitedHealth Group is a health care and well-being company dedicated to improving the health outcomes of millions around the world. We are comprised of two distinct and complementary businesses, UnitedHealthcare and Optum, working to build a better health system for all. Here, your contributions matter as they will help transform health care for years to come. Make an impact with a diverse team that shares your passion for helping others. Join us to start Caring. Connecting. Growing together.

Position Overview

The Director of State Government Affairs will be responsible for working with colleagues across External Affairs and the Company to develop and implement strategies on the company’s declared state government advocacy, growth, relationship, and reputation priorities, as well as overall business advancement initiatives. The candidate will report to the Senior Vice President, State Government Affairs.

You’ll enjoy the flexibility to work remotely from anywhere within the U.S. while taking on some tough challenges.

Primary Responsibilities

Support Regional Vice Presidents and broader State Team with UHG priorities as needed

Contribute to and develop timely content to support declared priorities, including executive briefing materials, executive updates, Board preparation, and presentations

Assist with execution of the weekly External Affairs Update

Engage in development and execution of team culture

Manage alphabet soup organization engagement and policy priority issue tracking across markets

Serve as day-to-day liaison to UHC C&S and Optum Rx Policy and Business Development teams

Collaborate closely with Government Affairs Policy to communicate state-specific policy trends and team collateral needs, such as policy briefing documents

Support state Vice Presidents through research and preparation related to state advocacy

Proactively contribute to comprehensive strategic plans leveraging direct advocacy, policy and research, coalitions, third-party engagement, and public opinion to advance the company’s objectives at the state level

Develop and contribute to a wide range of timely written deliverables with the highest standards of professionalism

Work closely with State VPs, Public Affairs, Corporate Affairs colleagues, and in-market business segments to drive visibility on key company initiatives in states

Work with the Company’s PAC manager to develop and execute strategies to raise internal funds for the PAC and implement a PAC distribution strategy

You’ll be rewarded and recognized for your performance in an environment that will challenge you, provide clear direction on success, and offer development for future roles.

Required Qualifications

5+ years experience working with the state Legislature, the Executive Branch, municipal government officials, government relations, public policy, advocacy, or campaigns

Experience or background in the health care industry is welcome but not necessary

Political campaign experience welcome

Demonstrated growth in responsibilities during career

Attributes, Skills, and Knowledge

Impeccable personal character and high integrity – able to represent the company with the highest standards of professionalism

Team player who works well with others

Highly motivated and reliable, with a strong work ethic and pride in one’s work

Meaningful existing relationships, credibility, and influence with state policymakers; firm understanding of state legislative and executive processes and key players

Outstanding written communication skills; ability to prepare high-quality, time-sensitive deliverables

Ability to thrive in an intense, accountable environment for a complex, highly diversified, mission-oriented company

Solid attention to detail; ability to consistently manage projects with quality, professionalism, and responsiveness

Excellent interpersonal, relationship, negotiation, and presentation skills

Thorough knowledge of region’s legislative and regulatory processes

Keen political acumen; ability to navigate issues comprehensively, including direct advocacy, policy and research, coalitions, third-party engagement, and public opinion

Eagerness to learn, improve, grow, and seize new opportunities; responsive to constructive feedback

Ability to pivot and quickly adapt to changes in external environment or company priorities

*All employees working remotely must adhere to UnitedHealth Group’s Telecommuter Policy.

Compensation and Benefits

Pay is based on factors including local labor markets, education, work experience, certifications, etc. In addition to salary, we offer:

Comprehensive benefits package

Incentive and recognition programs

Equity stock purchase

401(k) contribution

(The salary for this role will range from $132,200 to $226,600 annually based on full-time employment. All benefits are subject to eligibility requirements.)

This position will be posted for a minimum of 2 business days or until a sufficient candidate pool has been collected. Job postings may close early due to volume of applicants.

Our Mission

At UnitedHealth Group, our mission is to help people live healthier lives and make the health system work better for everyone. We believe everyone—of every race, gender, sexuality, age, location, and income—deserves the opportunity to live their healthiest life. We are committed to mitigating environmental impact and delivering equitable care that addresses health disparities and improves outcomes.

Equal Employment Opportunity

UnitedHealth Group is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer. Qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to race, national origin, religion, age, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

Drug-Free Workplace

UnitedHealth Group is a drug-free workplace. Candidates are required to pass a drug test before beginning employment.

Apply here