Senior Director, Government Affairs

Job Summary:

The Senior Director, Government Affairs, is responsible for leading the government affairs department and developing and executing legislative and regulatory strategy for the Hearth, Patio & Barbecue Association (HPBA) at all levels of government. As an experienced government affairs professional, the Senior Director for HPBA Government Affairs also serves as the advisor to the President & CEO on all matters of legislative and regulatory consequence.

Duties/Responsibilities:

• Responsible for the overall planning, organization, and execution of HPBA’s government affairs strategies and activities alongside a team of government affairs professionals
• Building relationships with policymakers at all levels of government (federal, state, local) to advance the interests of HPBA’s membership and representing the association in meetings and engagements with policymakers
• Leading communication strategies regarding government affairs issues to association members, including proposed strategy and progress in achieving desired results
• Developing relationships with key stakeholders to shape legislative and regulatory activity to deliver on strategic association priorities
• Proactively monitoring and evaluating legislation and regulation, directing the appropriate response from the association, including but not limited to lobbying, providing comments, crafting testimony, and activating membership
• Responding to inquiries on policy and regulatory issues from HPBA’s membership in a timely fashion and providing education and guidance to association members on how to effectively impact policy issues
• Work with the President & CEO and Board of Directors on other matters as directed, including but not limited to providing suggestions on enhanced association value regarding government affairs

Required Skills/Abilities:

• Knowledge of state and federal government structures, legislative processes and regulatory frameworks and how to effectively impact them
• Possess strong analytical, critical thinking, and interpersonal skills, the ability speak and write persuasively and a proven track record of being able to work under tight deadlines.
• Ability to analyze and understand complex policy issues and assess their impact on HPBA members
• Demonstrated ability to create and implement comprehensive government affairs strategies that include lobbying, association engagement, coalition management and other tools that result in successful engagement of external groups
• Skilled in public speaking and delivering presentations
• Budgeting experience and skills and problem-solving abilities
• Demonstrated collaboration skills to work effectively with internal colleagues and association members and stakeholders
• Outstanding interpersonal skills with the ability to work autonomously and with the staff, and ability to manage multiple projects
• Microsoft Office Suite capabilities including PowerPoint and Excel; general business technology skills
• Ability to travel as needed, up to 15-20%

Required Education and Experience:

• Bachelor’s degree in public policy, Political Science, or a related field required; post-graduate degree preferred
• A minimum of 10+ years of experience in government affairs, including knowledge of state and federal government structures, legislative processes, and regulatory frameworks.
• Experience leading a team of government affairs professionals
• This position is based in the Arlington, Virginia area

Preferred, But Not Required:

• Post-graduate degree
• Experience working with a trade association, whether internally or externally
• Familiarity with top energy and environmental policy issues and related agencies
• Federal legislative or regulatory experience is a plus
• Experience with grassroots advocacy strategy and/or running a political action committee

Hearth, Patio & Barbecue Association welcomes applicants from all backgrounds, ethnicities, genders, and abilities to apply. We are committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace. All employment is decided on the basis of qualifications, merit, and business need.

About Hearth, Patio & Barbecue Association:

The Hearth, Patio & Barbecue Association (HPBA), based just outside of Washington, DC, is the North American industry association for manufacturers, retailers, distributors, representatives, service firms, and allied associates for all types of fireplace, stove, heater, barbecue, and outdoor living appliances and accessories. HPBA provides professional member services and industry support in government relations, events, market research, education, certifications, consumer education, and industry promotion.

Call (703) 522-0086 for more information on how to apply.