Director, Federal Government Affairs

# About the Job

What if the work you did every day could impact the lives of people you know? Or all of humanity?

At Illumina, we are expanding access to genomic technology to realize health equity for billions of people around the world. Our efforts enable life‑changing discoveries that are transforming human health through the early detection and diagnosis of diseases and new treatment options for patients.

Working at Illumina means being part of something bigger than yourself. Every person, in every role, has the opportunity to make a difference. Surrounded by extraordinary people, inspiring leaders, and world‑changing projects, you will do more and become more than you ever thought possible.

# Position Summary

Drives development and implementation of corporate policy through strategic partnerships with government and industry groups, aligning with business objectives. Works on a team to foster relationships with key members of the federal government and industry groups to promote company interests in Washington, D.C. Prepares policy briefings, testimony for pending legislative actions, and provides thought leadership and recommendations in collaboration with the government affairs team. Works on a team to ensure appropriate company participation in government forums and industry group meetings.

Responsible for engaging with policymakers, leaders of government and industry councils, and lobbyists to influence public policy, monitor government initiatives, and advocate for specific plans to advance the company’s objectives.

Changes to individual responsibilities may occur due to business needs, and other related duties may be assigned.

This role will report to the Vice President, Government Affairs for US and Canada. The individual must reside in the greater Washington D.C. area.

# Responsibilities

Works collaboratively on a team to inform the organization’s policies and objectives involving matters of the federal government, regulations, and advocacy strategies.

Provides analysis of proposed federal legislation to determine potential impact on the organization.

Responsible for recommending company positions on federal legislation, regulations, and policy priorities.

Identifies, monitors, and influences government legislation, regulation, and public policy with the intent to optimize the business environment and patient access to Illumina solutions.

Educates federal public policymakers on issues and initiatives that support and advocate for our industry and business by creating and maintaining a positive leadership image and business climate for Illumina.

Works with assigned business units on government affairs strategies to execute on business priorities.

Represents Illumina in assigned trade associations and coalitions to further corporate priorities and strategies.

Utilizes Illumina executives and subject matter experts to help educate government policymakers.

Helps manage major company events, high‑profile meetings, and visits with government officials.

**Political Development** – Helps the team execute successful company and industry political events to favorably position the company with elected officials in full conformance with applicable political action and election laws and rules.

**Policy Analysis** – Provides insightful analysis of proposed federal administrative and legislative actions and their impact on Illumina. In close partnership with business units and corporate functional experts, develops policy positions and appropriate messaging tailored to target audiences.

**Advocacy** – Communicates directly and persuasively with government officials and staff, as well as both allies and opponents, in the advancement of Illumina’s public policy priorities. Demonstrates thought leadership and subject‑matter expertise to advance business strategic objectives through proactive public policy engagement. Develops issue advocacy materials and presentations, testimony for delivery to legislative committees and regulatory bodies, and internal messaging for key contacts, employee grassroots, and vendor engagement programs.

**Tracking and Intelligence Gathering** – Identifies and monitors legislative and regulatory activities for their potential impact, and reports to internal partners in a timely and precise manner.

**Industry Associations and Coalitions** – Serves on industry task forces and working groups where policy interests are aligned, and Illumina leadership can be exerted. Represents the company at trade associations and participates as directed in meetings and work of national associations.

**Third‑Party Ally Development** – Builds and leads disparate advocacy coalition efforts to raise awareness of barriers to patient access to therapy and the importance of fostering a business environment friendly to technology innovation, investment, and employment. Works on a team to help cultivate strategic partnerships with public and private payers, provider organizations, key clinical research institutions, and patient advocacy organizations. Leverages internal resources to support engagement plans.

The listed responsibilities are an essential but not exhaustive list of the usual duties associated with the position. Individual responsibilities may change due to business needs.

# Requirements

Typically requires a Bachelor’s degree and a minimum of 15–18 years of related experience, with 10+ years of management experience or an equivalent combination of education and experience.

Experience working with Congress, the Administration, Executive Agencies, and other policymakers at the federal government level.

Experience communicating and presenting to senior‑level stakeholders, both internal and external to the company.

Experience with federal compliance requirements.

Strong working knowledge of the federal legislative and regulatory processes.

Demonstrates business acumen with knowledge of current policies, practices, and competitive landscape, as well as future trends and challenges in the marketplace.

Significant experience reading, analyzing, and interpreting federal legislative and regulatory documents.

Ability to convey company views and positions in an open, honest manner that is interesting to others; able to tell a compelling story and use effective case studies; and to offer solutions and generate favorable action.

Ability to build strong relationships, collaborate with and lead teams, and work well with cross‑functional colleagues.

Capacity to be a quick learner of new subject matters and ability to adapt nimbly to a rapidly changing healthcare ecosystem and a challenging political environment.

Able to assess and manage risk, accept accountability, and offer viable alternative strategies, as necessary, to achieve goals.

Strong problem‑solving and negotiation skills.

Articulate and personable.

Ability to direct multi‑stakeholder education and advocacy efforts.

Demonstrated initiative, resourcefulness, and attention to detail in the execution of strategies.

Capability to manage multiple assignments simultaneously, with strong organizational skills and attention to prioritization among conflicting demands.

Exemplary written and large‑audience presentation skills.

Demonstrated leadership skills with unquestioned personal standards of conduct, work ethic, and integrity, and an ability to maintain calm under pressure.

Occasional travel to San Diego HQ and to represent Illumina at external events on an as‑needed basis.

All listed requirements are deemed essential functions of this position; however, business conditions may require reasonable accommodation for additional tasks and responsibilities.

# Compensation & Benefits

The estimated base salary range for the Director, Federal Government Affairs (Washington D.C. / Remote) role based in the United States is $187,400 – $281,000. Placement depends on experience, skills, location, and internal equity. All employees are eligible for variable cash programs and eligible roles may receive equity.

Benefits include access to genomics sequencing, family planning, health/dental/vision coverage, retirement benefits, and paid time off.

# Inclusion & Equal Opportunity

Illumina is deeply rooted in belonging, promoting an inclusive environment where employees feel valued and empowered. The company confirms a zero‑net pay gap regardless of gender, ethnicity, or race. Employee Resource Groups (ERGs) provide career development, cultural awareness, and social responsibility opportunities.

Illumina is an equal opportunity employer committed to providing employment opportunity regardless of sex, race, creed, color, gender, religion, marital status, domestic partner status, age, national origin or ancestry, physical or mental disability, medical condition, sexual orientation, pregnancy, military or veteran status, citizenship status, and genetic information.

Illumina conducts background checks on applicants receiving conditional offers. Results may impact the offer in accordance with applicable laws.

Illumina prohibits the use of generative AI in the application and interview process. For accommodation requests, contact [email protected].

The position will remain posted until a final candidate is selected or a sufficient number of qualified applicants is reached. This role is not eligible for visa sponsorship.

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