Director, Health Policy Programs

AARP is the nation’s largest nonprofit, nonpartisan organization dedicated to empowering people 50 and older to choose how they live as they age. With a nationwide presence, AARP strengthens communities and advocates for what matters most to the more than 100 million Americans 50-plus and their families: health security, financial stability and personal fulfillment. AARP also produces the nation’s largest circulation publications: AARP The Magazine and AARP Bulletin.

AARP’s Policy, Research and International Affairs leads the development and communication of AARP’s public policies, research and insights on the issues that matter to people 50-plus.

The Director, Health Policy Programs manages timely policy research, analysis, and publications to drive and support the priorities of AARP’s Public Policy Institute, particularly on Medicare and related Medicaid issues. Identifies opportunities and develops policy recommendations and solutions on timely health policy topics. Cultivates and maintains strategic relationships with health policy thought leaders and influencers across related industries. Analyzes current and proposed federal regulations as well as other key policies, particularly those affecting the Medicare and related Medicaid programs. Manages direct reports and collaborates with cross-functional teams and senior leadership in the development and execution of organizational strategic plans.

• Directs and manages direct reports and matrixed teams.
• Serves as internal and external thought leader in area of expertise. Writes reports and recommendations that demonstrate deep subject matter expertise and exhibits thought leadership and supports enterprise objectives.
• Leads or assists with the development of strategic priorities across the organization.
• Analyzes federal and state legislative and regulatory proposals and provides objective policy analyses to inform national and state debates and the organization's position and engagement.
• Conducts policy research and analysis to identify opportunities and develops solutions for external and internal stakeholders. Plans and implements research projects.
• Produces written reports and convenes public meetings to disseminate findings, share best practices, and advance solutions.
• Represents the organization externally at key forums, meetings, advisory boards, and/or with media. Builds strategic relationships with thought leaders and influencers across industries.

• Master’s degree in fields including, Public Policy, Public Health, Health Policy, Political Science, Gerontology, Economics, Health Economics, Social Sciences, Law.
• 10 years of relevant and progressively responsible experience in government, the private sector, or a non-profit organization engaged in health policy and/or research initiatives. Alternatively, an equivalent combination of training and experience related to the duties of the position would be considered.
• The candidate should have demonstrated knowledge of health policy and federal health programs in the U.S.

Preferred Qualifications: 

• Ph.D., or other doctorate degree in fields including Public Policy, Public Health, Health Policy, Political Science, Gerontology, Economics, Health Economics, Social Sciences, Law.AARP will not sponsor an employment visa for this position at this time.

Additional Requirements 

• Regular and reliable job attendance
• Effective verbal and written communication skills
• Exhibit respect and understanding of others to maintain professional relationships
• Independent judgement in evaluation options to make sound decisions
• In office/open office environment with the ability to work effectively surrounded by moderate noise

Flexible Work Arrangement (FWA)

AARP observes Mondays and Fridays as telecommuting workdays, except for essential functions. Remote work and telecommuting can only be done within the United States and its territories.

Compensation and Benefits

AARP offers a competitive compensation and benefits package including a 401(k); 100% company-funded pension plan; health, dental, and vision plans; life insurance; paid time off to include company and individual holidays, vacation, sick, caregiving, and parental leave; performance-based and peer-based recognition and tuition reimbursement. 

Equal Employment Opportunity

AARP is an equal opportunity employer committed to hiring a diverse workforce and sustaining an inclusive culture. AARP does not discriminate on the basis of race, ethnicity, religion, sex, color, national origin, age, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, mental or physical disability, genetic information, veteran status, or on any other basis prohibited by applicable law.