Director Health Policy

The Director of Health Policy will lead the development and execution of the company’s health policy program. This role will serve as a credible authority on health policy issues, guiding research and educational initiatives that inform and support federal and state legislative and regulatory advocacy. The Director will produce evidence-based policy resources and collaborate across departments to engage key stakeholders—including employees, members, providers, business leaders, lawmakers, advocacy groups, and academic institutions. This position will play a central role in elevating BCBSKS’s voice in health policy discussions and driving informed, community-based engagement on issues such as affordability, provider reimbursement, benefit design, and health equity.

** This position is eligible to work remotely, hybrid or onsite in accordance with our Telecommuting Policy. Applicants must reside in Kansas or Missouri or be willing to relocate as a condition of employment.

Are you ready to make a difference? Choose to work for one of the most trusted companies in Kansas.

Why Join Us?

• Make a Positive Impact: Your work will directly contribute to the health and well-being of Kansans.
• Family Comes First: Total rewards package that promotes the idea of family first for all employees.
• Dynamic Work Environment: Collaborate with a team of passionate and driven individuals.
• Trust: Work for one of the most trusted companies in Kansas
• Stability: 80 years of commitment, compassion and community

Compensation

BCSBKS Exempt grade 20

• Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Kansas offers excellent competitive compensation with the goal of retaining and growing talented team members. The salary range for this role is a good faith estimate, it is estimated based on what a successful candidate might be paid.  All offers presented to candidates are carefully reviewed to ensure fair, equitable pay by offering competitive salaries that align with the individual's skills, education, experience, and training. The range may vary above or below the stated amounts.

What you’ll do

• Lead the development and execution of BCBSKS’s health policy program aligned with organizational goals and strategic initiatives.
• Oversee the creation of health policy research products including policy briefs, white papers, position statements, and toolkits.
• Serve as the internal expert on federal and state health policy trends, regulations, and reform efforts.
• Collaborate with Government Relations, Blue Health Initiatives, and other internal teams to ensure consistent, informed advocacy messaging.
• Develop and lead educational seminars, workshops, and briefings on health policy topics for internal and external stakeholders.
• Provide policy expertise to support grassroots advocacy and community engagement efforts, particularly on topics such as affordability, provider reimbursement, benefit design, and health equity.
• Represent BCBSKS in policy discussions with coalitions, think tanks, academic institutions, and other stakeholders.
• Cultivate relationships with policy influencers, academic researchers, public health experts, and health system stakeholders to support policy collaboration.
• Analyze and interpret federal and state health policy legislation and regulatory proposals to identify opportunities that enhance health outcomes, affordability, and expand access to care.
• Mentor and supervise health policy staff and collaborate with other leadership team members to align health policy efforts with business priorities.

Knowledge/Skills/Abilities

• In-depth knowledge of U.S. healthcare systems, public health policy, health economics, insurance markets, and health equity principles.
• Strong understanding of legislative and regulatory processes at the state and federal levels.
• Excellent analytical and critical thinking skills with the ability to interpret complex policy and translate findings into actionable recommendations.
• Outstanding written and verbal communication skills, including experience producing professional policy documents and delivering public presentations.
• Ability to influence and collaborate across departments and with external partners.
• Skilled in managing projects, setting priorities, and meeting deadlines in a fast-paced, evolving environment.
• Politically astute with a strong ethical foundation and commitment to nonpartisan, evidence-based research and stakeholder engagement.

What you need

• Master’s degree or higher in Public Health, Health Policy, Health Administration, Public Administration, Political Science, Economics, or a related field required.
• Minimum of 7+ years of experience in health policy, health services research, public affairs, or a related field.
• Experience working within or alongside government agencies, health insurers, or advocacy organizations strongly preferred.
• Demonstrated experience in policy writing, stakeholder education, and public speaking.
• Leadership experience, including managing teams and driving strategic initiatives.

Physical Requirements

• Prolonged periods sitting at a desk and working on a computer.
• Occasional travel required within Kansas and to national conferences or meetings.
• Ability to attend evening or weekend events as needed for community engagement or legislative and regulatory meetings.
• Must be able to lift up to 15 pounds at times for transporting materials to events or presentations.

Benefits & Perks

• Base compensation is only one component of your competitive Total Rewards package
  • Incentive pay program (EPIP)
  • Health/Vision/Dental insurance
  • 6 weeks paid parental leave for new mothers and fathers
  • Fertility/Adoption assistance
  • 2 weeks paid caregiver leave
  • 5% 401(k) plan matching
  • Tuition reimbursement
  • Health & fitness benefits, discounts and resources

Our Commitment to Connection and Belonging

At Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Kansas, we are committed to fostering a culture of connection and belonging, where mutual respect is at the foundation of our workplace. We provide equal employment opportunities to all individuals, regardless of race, color, religion, belief, sex, pregnancy (including childbirth, lactation, and related medical conditions), national origin, age, physical or mental disability, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, genetic information (including characteristics and testing), military or veteran status, family or parental status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.

Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Kansas conducts pre-employment drug screening, criminal conviction check, employment verifications and education as part of a conditional offer of employment.