Director of Policy and Government Relations

### ABOUT TRAVEL TECH

Every day, millions of Americans save time and money by using online comparison tools to research and book their travel. Many of these services are provided or supported by members of the Travel Technology Association. Our mission is to empower traveler choice by advocating for public policy that promotes marketplace transparency and competition. Travel Tech represents travel technology innovators ranging from dynamic startups, small, and midsize businesses to leading online travel agencies, metasearch engines, short-term rental platforms, Global Distribution Systems, and travel management companies. Our members include Airbnb, Booking, Chase Travel, Expedia, Skyscanner, Tripadvisor, Viator, VRBO, and others.

### POSITION SUMMARY

The Director, Policy & Government Relations position is a key role at Travel Tech. S/he supports the development and ongoing execution of government relations strategies to achieve Travel Tech’s policy objectives on the federal level. The association’s government relations work primarily focuses on tech policy issues that impact everyday businesses and their customers, such as data privacy, e-commerce and platform-related topics, competition, the responsible use of AI, and support for innovation. Other issues include transportation, consumer protection and price transparency, tax, and tourism-related topics.

The primary responsibility of the Director, Policy & Government Relations role is to work closely with government affairs representatives from Travel Tech member companies to develop policy positions and advocacy materials, including letters, testimony, and one-pagers in support of the association’s policy goals. This position will represent the association in meetings with federal policymakers and their staff and serve as a known and trusted expert resource for them. The Director, Policy & Government Affairs will lead the association’s work with coalitions and help plan Travel Tech’s Capitol Hill events. This role is supported by Travel Tech’s consultants and outside counsels. The Director, Government Relations position reports to Laura Chadwick, President & CEO of Travel Tech.

Ideal candidates for the Director, Policy & Government Relations position must be able to influence and motivate others. Strong writing, research, and analysis skills are required. The Director, Policy & Government Relations should have demonstrated experience in breaking down complex topics and effectively communicating them to expert and non-expert audiences. Creativity, strategic thinking, and a commitment to incorporating fun and innovative approaches to the practice of government affairs are also highly desired qualities. Experience with sales at any level or entrepreneurship is appreciated.

### REQUIRED EXPERIENCE

– 5-7 years of professional experience of increasing responsibility working on complex federal public policy issues, ideally in at least two different organizations
– Strong knowledge of Federal legislative rules and procedures, legislative processes, and politics
– Possess strong analytical, critical thinking, and interpersonal skills, the ability to speak and write persuasively, and a proven track record of being able to work under tight deadlines
– Personal experience saving time and money while researching and booking travel online and deep interest in understanding the technology and public policies that empower traveler choice
– A high degree of “can-do,” confidence, and persistence toward problem-solving
– Passion for learning and sharing knowledge with others
– Orientation toward customer service and relationship building
– Ability to work independently and demonstrate sound judgment
– Experience in working collaboratively to find common ground by incorporating diverse perspectives
– Lobbyist registration will be required
– Bachelor’s degree required; a graduate degree (in-progress or completed) a plus

The Director, Policy & Government Relations position is an excellent opportunity with much room for advancement for a Legislative Assistant or Manager, Government Affairs ready to take the next step in their career. In this role, you will become an expert on how tech policies impact everyday businesses and their customers. This skill set is quickly becoming highly sought out by companies and other trade associations. At Travel Tech, you will work with and learn from a friendly and supportive group of expert member company representatives and Travel Tech staff and consultants.

### APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS

Interested candidates should send their resume to [email protected] along with a brief statement (no more than 3 to 5 sentences or bullet points) about their specific interest in the position and/or relevant experience.

### POSITION BENEFITS

The salary range for the Director, Policy & Government Affairs is $137,550 to $143,550. Other benefits include:

– Health and dental insurance
– 401K, FSA, short and long-term disability insurance
– Three weeks of paid time off plus all federal holidays
– Two months of paid parental leave
– Cell phone and home internet connection stipend

The Director, Policy & Government Relations position is remote, but the candidate must live in the DC Metro area to attend Capitol Hill meetings and regularly scheduled in-person team meetings and events.