Manager, Federal Government Relations

Company Description
McDonald’s is proud to be one of the most recognized brands in the world, with restaurants in over 100 countries that serve 70 million customers daily. We continue to operate from a position of strength. Our updated growth strategy is focused on staying ahead of what our customers want and realizing further growth potential. Our relentless ambition is why McDonald’s remains one of the world’s leading corporations after almost 70 years. Joining McDonald’s means thinking big and preparing for a career that can have influence around the world.

At McDonald’s, we see every day as a chance to create positive impact. We lead through our values centered on inclusivity, service, integrity, community and family. From support of Ronald McDonald House to our Youth Opportunity project and sustainability initiatives, our values keep us dedicated to using our scale for good: good for our customers, people, industry and planet. We also offer a broad range of outstanding benefits including a sabbatical program, tuition assistance and flexible work arrangements.

Department Overview
The Manager of Federal Government Relations will serve as an ambassador for the McDonald’s Brand on company priorities related to food, nutrition, agriculture, and sustainability. Reporting to the Director of Federal Government Relations, this role will help shape and execute consistent, proactive engagements within the McDonald’s System, including McDonald’s corporate staff, franchisees, and suppliers, as well as external stakeholders such as federal government officials, consultants, third‑party groups, and trade associations.

This is a hands‑on, execution‑oriented role that blends strategy development with day‑to‑day advocacy, project management, and cross‑functional teamwork. Strong motivation, writing, communication, presentation, and relationship‑building skills are essential to success.

The ideal candidate brings subject‑matter experience in one or more of these policy areas, paired with a flexible, team‑oriented mindset and a willingness to step in and support broader team priorities as needed.

Duties
Track and analyze policy — Track, analyze, and regularly brief relevant internal stakeholders on legislative, regulatory, policy, and reputational developments related to food, nutrition, agriculture, and sustainability.

Design engagement plans — Design and implement plans for consistent, proactive engagement with federal government officials, trade associations, third‑party groups, McDonald’s leadership and staff, franchisees, suppliers, and consultants.

Manage outreach efforts — Manage and execute key outreach efforts, including policy briefings, advocacy days, restaurant visits, supplier tours, and other third‑party engagements.

Build political networks — Maintain and grow sophisticated political networks and help build effective coalitions.

Partner with cross‑functional teams — Work closely with nutrition, sustainability, supply chain, communications, and legal teams to align policy strategy with business objectives.

Support team initiatives — Contribute as an active, collaborative team member by supporting Director‑ and team‑led initiatives and sharing insights across issue areas.

Qualifications
BA/BS degree required

7+ years of experience in federal government relations, legislative or regulatory affairs, campaigns, and/or public policy communications

Experience in both government (Administration, Federal agency, or Congress) and private sector environments (corporate, trade association, or advocacy firm)

Demonstrated experience in one or more relevant policy areas (food, nutrition, agriculture, sustainability, supply chains)

Established, relevant government and private sector networks

Excellent written and oral communication skills

Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a cross‑functional team environment

Capable of managing multiple priorities in a dynamic, fast‑paced, deadline‑driven setting

Compensation
Bonus Eligible: Yes
Long‑Term Incentive: Yes
Benefits Eligible: Yes

Salary Range
The expected salary range for this role is $115,872.00 – $144,840.00 per year.

The above represents the expected salary range for this job requisition. Ultimately, in determining your pay, we may also consider your experience and other job‑related factors.

Additional Information
Benefits eligible: This position offers health and welfare benefits, including but not limited to comprehensive health insurance (medical, prescription drug, mental health, dental, vision), as well as life insurance.

Bonus eligible: This position is eligible for a bonus based on individual and company performance.

Long‑term incentive eligible: This position is eligible for stock or other equity grants pursuant to McDonald’s long‑term incentive plan.

McDonald’s is an equal opportunity employer committed to the diversity of our workforce. We promote an inclusive work environment that creates feel‑good moments for everyone. McDonald’s provides reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities as part of the application or hiring process or to perform essential job functions. For assistance, contact [email protected].

McDonald’s prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to sex, sex stereotyping, pregnancy, race, color, religion, ancestry, national origin, age, disability status, medical condition, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, protected veteran status, citizenship status, genetic information, or any other characteristic protected by law. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment.

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