About BEAM Circular:

is unlocking the power of communities to transform waste into opportunity by building a vibrant regional ecosystem for the circular bioeconomy in California’s agricultural heartland. Anchored in the North San Joaquin Valley, we are facilitating collaboration through the BioEconomy, Agriculture, & Manufacturing (BEAM) Initiative to scale the most promising innovations in bioindustrial manufacturing. Our work includes public-private projects and programs in the areas of innovation, access to capital, infrastructure, talent development, and cross-cutting partnerships to advance economic and environmental value for local communities.

We have a dynamic, mission-driven team and are looking for partners to join us who believe in rolling up their sleeves to contribute to a bold vision, who are results-oriented and “get things done” mentality, who lead with curiosity, collaboration, and kindness, and who are dedicated to positive impact for people and the planet.

BEAM Circular is committed to building a diverse and inclusive team and encourages individuals identifying with any race, gender, sexual orientation, ethnicity, national origin, and abilities to apply.

Position Summary: 

The VP of Public Policy and Government Affairs will lead the organization’s efforts in developing and advocating for policy positions that align with the mission and strategic goals of BEAM Circular. This role will involve engaging with federal, state, and local government officials, managing relationships with key stakeholders, and monitoring legislative and regulatory developments that impact the organization. The Director will play a critical role in shaping and influencing public policy to advance BEAM Circular’s objectives.

Essential Functions: 

Policy Development and Advocacy: 

• Develop and implement comprehensive public policy strategies to advance BEAM Circular’s mission and goals.
• Research, analyze, and interpret proposed legislation, regulations, and policies that may impact the organization.
• Draft policy positions, testimony, white papers, and other advocacy materials.
• Lead the organization’s efforts in coalition-building and forming strategic partnerships to support advocacy initiatives.

Government Relations:

• Establish and maintain strong relationships with elected officials, government agencies, and other public officials at the federal, state, and local levels.
• Act as the primary liaison between BEAM Circular and government representatives to communicate policy priorities and organizational needs.
• Coordinate meetings, briefings, and events with policymakers and stakeholders to promote the organization’s interests.

Stakeholder Engagement:

• Collaborate with internal departments to understand programmatic needs and ensure alignment between public policy efforts and organizational priorities.
• Represent BEAM Circular at industry conferences, public forums, and meetings to enhance visibility and influence policy discussions.
• Manage relationships with external consultants, lobbying firms, and industry associations.

Communications and Reporting:

• Work with the communications team to develop messaging that supports public policy and advocacy initiatives.
• Provide regular updates and briefings to senior leadership and the board of directors on public policy activities and developments.
• Prepare reports, presentations, and other materials to effectively communicate the organization’s policy positions and accomplishments.

Compliance and Ethics:

• Ensure all lobbying and advocacy activities comply with relevant laws, regulations, and ethical standards.
• Maintain accurate records of lobbying activities and expenses in accordance with federal, state, and local regulations.

General BEAM Circular Team Collaboration:

• Present a positive view of the BEAM Circular to the community.
• May drive on company business.
• Comply with all BEAM Circular policies and procedures, including but not limited to workplace safety, reporting work-related injuries, Infection Control, and preventing potential safety risks for staff, clients, and others.
• The list of job duties and requirements is not all-inclusive. Management, at its discretion, may assign additional duties.

Requirements

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Strong understanding of the legislative process and regulatory environment at the federal, state, and local levels.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to effectively convey complex policy issues to diverse audiences.
• Demonstrated ability to build and maintain relationships with a wide range of stakeholders, including elected officials, government staff, industry leaders, and community organizations.
• Strategic thinker with strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.

Education and Experience:

Education: Bachelor’s degree in Public Policy, Political Science, Law, or a related field; Master’s degree or JD preferred.

Experience: Minimum of 7+ years of experience in public policy, government affairs, or a related field, with a proven track record of successful advocacy.

Additional Requirements:

• Ability to travel as needed to meet with policymakers, attend hearings and represent BEAM Circular at events.
• Flexibility to work outside of standard business hours when necessary to achieve advocacy goals.

Environmental Conditions:

• Indoors in a typical office environment approximately ninety-five percent (95%) of the time.
• Frequent computer use at the workstation for up to eight hours. 
• Frequently work at a fast pace with unscheduled interruptions.
• May occasionally move (walk or drive) from one work location to another.

Physical Demands:

• Ability to walk, sit, stand, stoop, crouch, and climb stairs.
• Ability to move and lift up to 20 pounds.
• Visual Acuity (Far/Near).
• Regular and Consistent Attendance.

Benefits

Compensation:

• Pay based on experience. Salary range is $140,000 to $160,000 with a competitive benefits package.
• Position based in Modesto, CA. Hybrid work arrangements permitted.

ADA/FEHA:  BEAM Circular will make reasonable accommodations in compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 and California's Fair Employment and Housing Act.

EEO:  BEAM Circular is an equal-opportunity employer. All aspects of employment, including the decision to hire, promote, discipline, or discharge, will be based on merit, competence, performance, and business needs. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.