Director of Advocacy and Government Relations

About the Job

Job Title: Director of Advocacy and Government Relations
Reports to: Vice President, Public Relations and Marketing

The Organization

The Society of Dermatology Physician Assistants (SDPA) is a 501(c)(6) non-profit professional organization composed of members who provide dermatologic care or have an interest in the medical specialty of dermatology. A mission-focused membership organization, SDPA works to empower, educate, and advance the DermPA™ practice by providing high-quality educational and professional development opportunities while advocating for a practice environment that advances patient care. Its Fellow members are PAs who provide medical services with the collaboration of a board-certified dermatologist.

Founded in 1994, the SDPA currently has over 4,800 members and is the largest specialty organization in the American Academy of Physician Associates (AAPA). SDPA employs a professional staff committed to advancing the Dermatology PA profession through innovative educational offerings, outstanding conferences, and collaboration efforts with passionate members. The SDPA headquarters office is located in Alexandria, Virginia, but remote work is an option.

The Opportunity

The Society of Dermatology Physician Assistants (SDPA) is seeking a dynamic and experienced Advocacy and Government Relations Director to lead our efforts in shaping policy and advancing the interests of dermatology PAs. The ideal candidate will have a deep understanding of legislative processes, a passion for healthcare advocacy, and exceptional relationship-building skills.

We are seeking a team member energized by a fast-moving environment, interested in trying new things, and driven to continuously improve. You strive to exceed expectations and go the extra mile to achieve results. You are an exemplary team player and expert communicator.

Primary Duties & Responsibilities

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty and responsibility. Other duties may be assigned to meet business needs.

Essential Functions

Advocacy and Policy Development:

• Act as the primary liaison to SDPA’s Government Affairs & Advocacy Committee.
• Collaborate with committee leaders to develop and oversee the annual federal advocacy agenda.
• Partner with state affiliates to create an annual “State Legislation to Watch” report, identifying crucial state policy initiatives affecting DermPAs™.
• Monitor and analyze federal and state legislative and regulatory developments impacting dermatology and healthcare policy.
• Work closely with lobbyists, coalitions, and legislative staff to advocate for policies that benefit dermatology PAs and enhance patient care.
• Champion issues related to scope of practice, reimbursement, and healthcare access.

Government Relations:

• Build and nurture relationships with key legislators, regulatory agencies, and government officials.
• Represent SDPA at meetings, hearings, and policy discussions focused on dermatology and healthcare.
• Collaborate with healthcare associations and advocacy groups to amplify dermatology PA interests in policy-making, including SDPA’s patient advocacy groups.

Membership and Stakeholder Engagement:

• Educate and engage SDPA members in grassroots advocacy efforts.
• Provide resources and tools to help members effectively interact with legislators and policymakers.
• Organize advocacy events, such as legislative hill days and virtual campaigns, to enhance the visibility of dermatology PAs.

Communication and Representation:

• Develop and implement communication strategies to keep members informed about advocacy initiatives and policy changes.
• Draft position statements, letters, and testimonies to articulate SDPA’s positions on key issues.
• Serve as a spokesperson for SDPA on government relations and policy matters.

Collaboration and Strategy:

• Work with SDPA leadership and the board to align advocacy goals with the organization’s mission and strategic objectives.
• Partner with educational and public relations teams to create campaigns that raise awareness of advocacy efforts.
• Contribute to the expansion of SDPA’s advocacy presence within the dermatology community.

Committees

• Coordinate SDPA’s Government Affairs & Advocacy Committee
• Support the State Affiliate Network
• Work closely with the Communications Committee

Skills

Qualifications:

• Proven experience in government relations, advocacy, or a related field, preferably within healthcare.
• Strong understanding of legislative and regulatory processes.
• Excellent communication, negotiation, and relationship-building skills.
• Ability to develop and execute advocacy strategies and campaigns.
• Experience working with healthcare associations and regulatory agencies is a plus.

Environment

• We are a fast-paced, high-energy organization with a very ambitious agenda and a staff that is highly motivated. This position may experience high-level work demands and independent decision-making under tight timelines.
• Adheres to SDPA’s Vision, Mission, and Core Values.
• Flexibility and the ability to work across time zones is essential.
• Self-starter, able to work independently and within a team environment.
• Travel to conferences and various advocacy events is required.

How to Apply

Interested candidates should submit a resume, cover letter outlining their qualifications and experience, as well as salary requirements. Applications can be sent to [email protected] with the subject line “Director of Advocacy and Government Relations.”