Director, Government Relations

Director, Government Relations

Location: Washington, DC

Salary: $225,000-275,000/yr

Role Overview

A global manufacturing company is seeking an experienced Director of Government Relations to lead and coordinate its public policy and government engagement strategy across federal and state levels. This role serves as the primary interface with government stakeholders, policy influencers, and external advocacy partners, ensuring alignment between public policy efforts and the organization's strategic objectives.

The ideal candidate brings extensive experience from a prominent government affairs or public policy firm, strong relationships within key political networks, and a proven ability to manage complex, cross‑functional government relations initiatives.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement a comprehensive government relations strategy aligned with organizational priorities

• Serve as the primary point of contact for federal, state, and local government stakeholders, including legislators, regulators, and policy advisors

• Manage and coordinate major government relations initiatives, ensuring consistent messaging and prioritization

• Build and maintain strong working relationships with influential political leaders, staff, committees, and policy organizations

• Oversee and coordinate external advocacy firms, trade associations, and consultants to ensure effective representation and accountability

• Monitor legislative, regulatory, and political developments; assess potential impact and provide strategic guidance to leadership

• Collaborate closely with Legal, Communications, Public Affairs, and internal business teams to align policy positions and external messaging

• Prepare briefings, talking points, and policy materials for senior leadership and internal stakeholders

• Represent the organization at hearings, meetings, industry forums, and relevant events

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree required; advanced degree in Public Policy, Political Science, Law, or related field preferred

• 10+ years of experience in government relations, public affairs, or lobbying, ideally with experience at a major government affairs or advocacy firm

• Established relationships within influential political networks, including elected officials, senior staff, and policy leaders

• Strong understanding of federal legislative and regulatory processes (state-level experience a plus)

• Demonstrated ability to manage multiple priorities and coordinate complex government relations efforts across internal and external stakeholders

• Excellent written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills

• High level of professionalism, discretion, and sound judgment

Preferred Skills

• Experience working with multinational organizations or issues involving international relations, global trade, or cross‑border regulatory environments

• Proven ability to operate independently while influencing senior executives and cross‑functional partners