Legislative Director

About the role

The Legislative Director will guide Forward Montana's advocacy efforts on critical issues such as pro-democracy reform, economic equality, climate solutions, LGBTQ+ gender justice, reproductive rights, and affordable housing during the 2027 state legislative session. The role will involve balancing organizational vision, political urgency, strategy, and team capacity, with a focus on building youth power.

Responsibilities

• Execute a legislative strategy, plan, and budget aligned with the organization's mission, vision, and goals
• Build narrative and messaging strategies to distill complex information into easily digestible content, including creating core messages for priority issue areas, serving as a guest on the What the Helena podcast, and facilitating Forward Montana Spokespeople training
• Work with the Communications Team to inform the creation of the weekly legislative newsletter and other opportunities such as action alerts
• Collaborate with the Forward Montana lobbyist to ensure strategies outside the building are impactful inside the building
• Organize events, press conferences, and workshops related to legislative efforts with the Program & Communications Teams
• Track and analyze state policies related to priority issue areas, and identify opportunities for mobilization and organizing
• Build strong relationships with state and national partners and grasstops, representing Forward Montana in relevant coalitions and press opportunities
• Inform creation of Forward Montana’s legislative scorecard in partnership with the Communications Team

Requirements

• Experience and enthusiasm for building power to advance policy solutions
• Involvement in organizing and empowering leaders
• An analysis of relevant policies
• A commitment to diverse and inclusive partnerships
• Project management skills
• Ability to work with remote teams and unconventional hours

Qualifications

• Experience in drafting comments, testifying in front of legislators, and navigating the legislative process
• Experience in coalition building and coalition dynamics
• Commitment to anti-prejudice and diversity, equity, inclusion, and justice

Skills

• Time management skills
• Nuance in political and advocacy work
• Self-starter mentality
• Experience in issue-based advocacy, political campaigns, and legislative sessions

Benefits

• 100% employer-paid health insurance
• Basic life insurance
• Employee assistance program
• Technology and wellness reimbursements
• Generous paid time off

Pay

$70,000 annually, prorated for the duration of employment

Schedule

Temporary, exempt, full-time position from October 5th, 2026, to July 1st, 2027