Senior Manager, Political Programs

OVERVIEW
The National Association of Chain Drug Stores (NACDS) operates in a multifaceted environment that includes chain pharmacy executives, federal and state policymakers, supplier partners, media, and internal cross‑functional departments.

NACDS is seeking a highly motivated and experienced political engagement professional to enhance the association’s political engagement and grassroots mobilization efforts. Responsibilities include overseeing political program operations, coordinating grassroots advocacy campaigns, facilitating political fundraising education, ensuring compliance, organizing events, and monitoring legislative developments.

This role requires a strategic, relationship‑driven, and detail‑oriented professional with experience in political operations, federal advocacy, grassroots organizing, and PAC management.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
Political Programs, Federal Engagement & Advocacy
Works closely with internal advocacy teams to develop lobbying priorities, strategies, and related activities.

Develops legislative materials—briefs, talking points, memos, action alerts—for distribution to Congress, the Administration, and NACDS members.

Attends and reports on congressional hearings, briefings, and legislative meetings.

Represents NACDS at political fundraisers, policy events, congressional meetings, and coalition gatherings (occasional evenings/weekends required).

Provides political evaluation and fundraising recommendations to senior NACDS leadership.

PAC & Political Program Operations
Manages day‑to‑day operations of NACDS’ political programs, including tracking contributions, disbursements, compliance, cash flow, and reconciliation.

Drafts donor communications, solicitation messages, and program materials.

Maintains giving levels and benefits structures for political program participants.

Supports preparation of monthly or quarterly FEC‑related reports in coordination with legal/compliance teams.

Grassroots Advocacy & Member Mobilization
Leads NACDS grassroots program strategy, including development of campaigns, action alerts, messaging, and mobilization plans.

Manages and grows NACDS grassroots networks, including key advocate programs and outreach initiatives.

Event Planning, Operations & Program Logistics
Coordinates and executes political program events, fundraising events, donor appreciation events, grassroots training sessions, and virtual briefings.

Manages logistical planning for political and grassroots‑related events (in-person and virtual).

Coordinates NACDS staff participation in external fundraisers and advocacy activities.

Other duties as assigned. The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed. They are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties and responsibilities.

DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS
Bachelor’s degree in political science, public policy, government, or a related field.

Minimum 7 years’ experience in political operations, PAC Management, grassroots advocacy, legislative affairs, or trade association government relations.

Strong understanding of the federal legislative process, elections environment, and advocacy strategy.

Knowledge of—or desire to quickly learn—FEC regulations and compliance requirements for trade association political activity.

Exceptional written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills; ability to clearly inform and educate.

Collaborative mindset with the ability to coordinate across internal teams, member companies, and allied organizations.

Proven ability to manage multiple competing priorities with accuracy and attention to detail.

Advanced computer skills and proficiency with the Microsoft Office Suite.

Highly dependable and reliable with regard to work schedule and ability to meet project deadlines.

Highly motivated; able to work independently and in a team environment.

The above qualifications are representative, but not all-inclusive, of the experience, knowledge, skills, and abilities required for the position.

ADDITIONAL DETAILS
LOCATION: This position is located at NACDS headquarters in Arlington, Virginia. NACDS team members work onsite Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays. Teleworking is allowed on Mondays and Fridays.

EMPLOYMENT, SALARY & BENEFITS: This is a full-time, regular position; salary is dependent on background, training, and experience. NACDS offers a comprehensive health benefits plan, an amazing 401(k) program, generous paid time off, and a high-energy culture.

Pay: From $85,000.00 per year

Benefits: 401(k) matching, Dental, Health, Vision, Life Insurance, FSA, Paid Time Off, Parental Leave, and Professional Development Assistance.

REQUIREMENTS SUMMARY:

Education: Bachelor’s (Required)

Experience: * Grassroots Advocacy: 3 years (Required)

Legislative Affairs: 3 years (Required)

Political Operations/PAC Management: 3 years (Required)

Trade Association / Non-Profit: 3 years (Preferred)

Ability to Commute: Arlington, VA 22209 (Required)

Applicants are invited to apply via Indeed: https://www.indeed.com/job/senior-manager-political-programs-f9610f0cac4960a5