Tribal Government Relations Director

Licensure/Certification Qualifications:

Bachelor’s degree in political science, American Indian Studies, public administration, communications, or similar field

Summary:
Reporting to the Vice President of Public Policy, the Manager of Tribal Government Relations will serve as the primary liaison between Essentia Health and the tribal governments in Minnesota, North Dakota, and Wisconsin. This role is critical in fostering strong relationships with tribal communities, understanding and advocating for their health care needs, and ensuring that Essentia Health is responsive to the unique needs of Indigenous communities across the region. The successful candidate will play a crucial role in shaping and communicating Essentia Health’s initiatives to support Indigenous health and work with tribal nations to help build culturally responsive patient care within Essentia.

Key Responsibilities:

• Establish and maintain credibility with tribal nations through consistent, respectful, and culturally appropriate engagement
• Represent Essentia Health to tribal leaders and communities, attend tribal meetings and events, provide input, and connect leadership to advocacy opportunities
• Develop and implement a tribal relations strategy that enhances Essentia Health’s partnerships with tribal nations
• Monitor legislative and regulatory actions impacting tribal health and advocate for policies that benefit tribal communities
• Coordinate with internal Essentia Health Departments on relevant topics related to tribal health care issues
• Build and support relationships with tribal organizations, health care stakeholders, and public policy experts
• Manage and support organizational advocacy efforts and campaigns, including tours and events at Essentia Health facilities to connect tribal leaders and policymakers to Essentia Health leadership
• Collaborate with organizational initiatives elevating culturally responsive care for our Indigenous communities, patients and colleagues
• Other duties as assigned

Required Qualifications:

• Five (5) or more years of related experience in tribal relations, health care policy development, business, or related fields
• Knowledge of and respect for Native American values, cultures, and traditions in Indian Country
• Ability to serve as a credible and trusted liaison between Essentia and tribal governments, ensuring open, respectful, and culturally appropriate communication to foster mutual trust and collaboration
• Ability to work independently, manage multiple projects, meet deadlines, and be part of a team working towards a common goal
• Proven track record as a collaborator and self-starter who exercises discretion and independent judgment