Director Government Relations

The National Electrical Manufacturers Association (NEMA) is seeking a Director, Government Relations

The National Electrical Manufacturers Association (NEMA) represents over 300 electrical equipment and medical imaging manufacturers that make safe, reliable, and efficient products and systems. Together, our members contribute 1% of U.S. GDP and directly provide nearly 460,000 American jobs, contributing more than $250 billion to the U.S. economy. NEMA serves its members by living our core values in every aspect of our work: respect, integrity, teamwork, and leadership.

The Director, Government Relations will focus on tax, environment, energy efficiency, and domestic manufacturing policy as it pertains to the electroindustry and related electrical technology issues primarily at the federal level. The position involves working closely with association Member executives; evaluating implications of legislative initiatives; and developing and advocating policy positions that benefit the industry. Activities include interacting with legislative/regulatory staff and elected officials, preparing memoranda, talking points, position papers and comments, covering hearings/markups, representing NEMA and its members in various forums, and implementing advocacy strategies that achieve Member objectives.

The position reports to the Managing Director, Government Relations. The position is located in Arlington (Rosslyn), Virginia and includes some domestic travel.

Key Responsibilities

1. Accountable for managing outcome-based advocacy efforts at the federal level

• Monitor, analyze, and track federal legislative developments relevant to NEMA’s priorities:
  • Environmental policy, including but not limited to chemical and critical materials issues
  • Energy efficiency, climate, and other sustainability policy issues
  • Tax policy relevant to electrical manufacturing and energy generation, transmission, and distribution
• Prepare timely updates, alerts, and summaries to keep members informed of relevant developments
• Lead development and implementation of legislative strategies to include involving Member company representatives
• Develop and maintain strong relationships with Congressional offices, federal agencies, and coalition partners
• Form and direct coalitions to achieve assigned objectives by teaming with other trade associations and/or professional organizations
• Represent the association at Federal activities with legislators, regulators, and other stakeholders
• Develop and manage persistent lines of communication with stakeholders and collaborate with Member company representatives
• Work with the NEMA Communications team to develop communications and media plans that effectively advance advocacy goals

2. Stakeholder and Member Engagement

• Serve as a point of contact for member companies on tax and environmental policy matters
• Organize and manage grassroots efforts, including organizing Capitol Hill meetings, “Fly-ins,” and visits by legislators to Member company facilities
• Develop innovative ways to create Member-based efforts to influence pending rules and legislation
• Assist with member education efforts, including webinars, toolkits, and briefings

3. Collaborate with colleagues in NEMA’s matrix-based operating model

• Deliver integrated solutions to members and other industry stakeholders
• Work in close partnership with the Regulatory and Industry Affairs team
• Participate in industry sector leadership meetings and contribute to sector strategies

Experience and Qualifications

• Minimum of eight years of experience, with at least five to seven years of experience on Capitol Hill preferred
• Undergraduate degree required in political science, public policy, or related fields – advanced degree a plus
• Demonstrated success in achieving outcomes, preferably in legislative processes, with a particular emphasis on tax-related legislation or tax and environmental policy issues
• General knowledge of the electric sector and manufacturing challenges a plus
• Strong relationship builder with ability to meet goals in policy-making processes
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills with proven ability to persuasively advocate in private and public settings while always displaying executive presence
• Innovative thinker and leader who is individually proactive, outcome-oriented, and a team builder/player
• Demonstrated ability to excel in a fast-paced, multidisciplinary environment with challenging timelines for multiple projects occurring simultaneously
• Knowledge of or ability to quickly learn Capitol Hill ethics requirements and programs
• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite and other legislative/issues tracking software

NEMA offers a competitive salary and excellent benefits package including paid holidays and personal time, flexible working hours, 401(k) plan, health/dental insurance, and partial pre-tax parking/Metro subsidy.

Veterans are encouraged to apply. EOE/M/F/V/D.

Apply Here

PI267578801