Vice President, Government Affairs

PURPOSE:
Responsible for the strategic development and implementation of Government Affairs activities to support, promote, and protect business objectives and policies of the company. Coordinates, communicates, and implements legislative strategies on behalf of CareFirst and its subsidiaries for all activities associated with government and legislative affairs. Communicates and reinforces CareFirst’s opinions and positions within governing bodies and the BCBSA. Responsible for developing and fostering a positive perception among regulators and legislators of CareFirst’s mission and values and promoting CareFirst as a public policy leader on healthcare issues in the state. Coordinates the implementation of laws and regulations throughout the corporation to ensure CareFirst remains legally compliant.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

• Lobby state government officials and their staff on behalf of CareFirst to ensure the company’s position is considered in legislative and regulatory decisions. Ensure bills and regulations are either introduced or amended to be consistent with CareFirst policy and objectives. Enhance relationships with state and local legislators, regulators, opinion leaders, and various community groups.
• Establish and implement proactive strategies to promote CareFirst’s legislative agenda. Coordinate and advance CareFirst’s positions regarding state legislation and regulations. This includes testifying on bills, educating and working with legislators, regulators, and the Executive branch. Promote outreach and creative problem-solving during the legislative session and interim by responding to legislative, regulatory, and constituent threats and opportunities.
• Manage internal state and local government affairs teams, contract lobbyists, and build coalitions to pass or amend legislation that aligns with CareFirst’s goals or defeat legislation posing a threat to CareFirst’s policy.
• Actively participate in legislative and regulatory workgroups, commissions, and task forces to promote CareFirst positions. Ensure recommendations do not negatively impact CareFirst policies. Advise state leaders on the impacts of healthcare policies on various constituencies. Identify and resolve potential legislative issues to prevent unnecessary bill introduction.
• Participate in strategic healthcare policy planning within the company, ensuring that proposed legislation and regulation support these policies. Track, monitor, and communicate legislative proposals to senior management. Consult with various divisions to determine each legislative proposal’s impact on business practices, operational costs, and the company’s future strategic direction.
• Oversee the department’s strategic and day-to-day activities, including directing and guiding staff to implement departmental and organizational goals. Recruit, retain, and develop a high-performing team. Evaluate performance, generate development plans, and set goals according to corporate policies. Develop annual goals, monitor variances in departmental budgets, and allocate resources appropriately.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITY:

This position manages people.

QUALIFICATIONS:

Education Level:
Bachelor’s Degree in Political Science or related field.

Experience:
12 years of related experience and at least 5 years of increasingly responsible management experience.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Advanced degree preferred but not required.
• State or local government experience and strong relationships with key government officials in CareFirst’s markets.
• Knowledge of the healthcare industry.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (KSAs):

• Strong customer service orientation, superior oral and written communication skills, and exceptional managerial and leadership abilities. Must be able to motivate and persuade others.
• Ability to develop and maintain strong relationships while enhancing the company’s image and legislative positions.
• Ability to meet deadlines and handle multiple demands from internal and external customers with service excellence.
• Effective communication and positive customer service for all internal and external customers, including challenging or demanding individuals.

Salary Range:

$238,240 – $357,360

Salary Range Disclaimer:

The disclosed range estimate has not been adjusted for geographic differentials related to the job location. This compensation range is specific and considers factors like the scope of responsibilities, candidate experience, education, internal equity, and market considerations. It is not typical for an individual to be hired at the top of the range. Compensation decisions depend on experience, internal equity, and location. CareFirst also offers a comprehensive benefits package, incentive programs, and 401k plans (subject to eligibility).

Department:

Government Affairs

Equal Employment Opportunity:

CareFirst BlueCross BlueShield is an Equal Opportunity (EEO) employer. The company provides equal employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, protected veteran or disabled status, or genetic information.

Where To Apply:

Please visit our website to apply: www.carefirst.com/careers

Federal Disc/Physical Demand:

The incumbent must immediately disclose any debarment, exclusion, or event that makes them ineligible to perform work directly or indirectly on Federal health care programs.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

The associate is primarily seated while performing duties but may need to walk or stand occasionally. The hands are frequently used for writing, typing, and handling small controls or objects. The associate must frequently talk and hear. Occasionally, weights up to 25 pounds may be lifted.

Sponsorship in the U.S.:

Must be eligible to work in the U.S. without sponsorship.