Manager, Government Relations

**Overview**

The International Dairy Foods Association (IDFA) is seeking a proactive, detail-oriented, and policy-savvy professional to serve as Manager of Government Relations. This position will support IDFA’s advocacy efforts at the federal and state levels while playing a key role in political engagement and Political Action Committee (PAC) compliance.

Reporting to the Senior Vice President of Government Relations, this growth potential role will support legislative and regulatory advocacy initiatives, monitor policy developments, and help advance IDFA’s priorities with lawmakers and stakeholders. The Manager will also oversee the administration and compliance of IDFA’s PAC, ensuring adherence to all federal election laws and reporting requirements.

The position will work closely with IDFA’s government relations, regulatory, communications, and membership teams, as well as external stakeholders, including congressional offices, federal agencies, and coalition partners. The ideal candidate is a government affairs professional with experience in legislative processes, political engagement, and PAC operations. The role requires strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and the ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced policy environment.

**Key Responsibilities**

• Monitor, analyze, and report on federal and state legislative and regulatory developments impacting the dairy industry and food sector.
• Support the development and execution of government affairs strategies to advance IDFA’s policy priorities.
• Assist in managing relationships with congressional offices, federal agencies, and key external stakeholders.
• Prepare policy briefs, legislative summaries, talking points, and advocacy materials for internal and external audiences.
• Coordinate and support IDFA member engagement in advocacy efforts, including fly-ins, meetings, and grassroots initiatives.
• Manage the day-to-day operations of IDFA’s Political Action Committee (PAC), including fundraising support, tracking contributions, and member outreach.
• Ensure full compliance with all federal campaign finance laws and regulations, including Federal Election Commission (FEC) reporting and recordkeeping requirements.
• Work with legal counsel and external compliance vendors as needed to maintain PAC compliance and reporting accuracy.
• Support political engagement strategy, including candidate research, event coordination, and contribution recommendations.
• Collaborate with coalitions and partner organizations to advance shared legislative priorities.
• Assist in planning and executing government affairs-related events, briefings, and conferences.
• Maintain internal tracking systems for legislation, stakeholder engagement, and PAC activities.

**Qualifications**

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to translate complex policy issues into clear and actionable insights.
• Strong understanding of legislative processes and the federal policymaking environment.
• Knowledge of PAC operations, campaign finance laws, and FEC compliance requirements preferred.
• Exceptional organizational skills and attention to detail, particularly in compliance-related work.
• Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
• Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to build relationships with internal teams, policymakers, and external partners.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and familiarity with advocacy or PAC tracking software is a plus.

**Key Attributes**

• 3–6 years of experience in government affairs, public policy, political campaigns, or related field.
• Experience with PAC management, compliance, or political fundraising strongly preferred.
• Familiarity with food, agriculture, or manufacturing policy issues is a plus.
• Demonstrated ability to analyze legislative and political developments and communicate implications effectively.
• Collaborative, detail- and team-oriented professional with a proactive and solutions-focused mindset.
• Bachelor’s degree in political science, public policy, government, or a related field required.

**Additional Details**

**Location:** Based in Washington, D.C.
**Work Schedule:** Flexible office/remote work policy.
**Travel:** Approximately 10–20% domestic travel, including member engagement and political events.

**Compensation & Benefits**

Competitive compensation package commensurate with experience.

Benefits include:
• Comprehensive healthcare coverage
• 401(k) with profit sharing
• Unlimited paid time off
• Paid parental leave
• Professional development and education reimbursement
• Wellness initiatives and Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• Cell phone stipends
• Frequent team engagement and networking opportunities

**Equal Employment Opportunity**

IDFA is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to building a diverse and inclusive workplace. IDFA does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other legally protected status.

**Application Process**

To apply for this position, please submit a resume and cover letter outlining your qualifications and interest in the role to [email protected]. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled.

Join IDFA in shaping the future of dairy policy and regulatory leadership. Apply today!