Director, Federal Relations

Candidates are typically hired at a point in the salary range based on prior experience, education, and market demand for the role; candidates are also compared internally to their peers. 

API offers a comprehensive benefits package for our employees and their families.  More information about our benefits may be found at api.org/about/careers/benefits.

Job Summary

Responsible for direct federal lobbying activities in support of API advocacy objectives. Directs lobbying of Members of Congress, congressional staff, and federal agencies. Develops lobbying strategy and tactics in conjunction with API federal relations, state relations, mobilization, the Committee on Federal Relations, and coalition building and management.   

Duties/Responsibilities

• Acquires a working knowledge of API issues and activities. Responds to member and public inquires. Provides substantive answers and materials as needed or makes referrals to the appropriate Council resource. 
• Advocates API’s interests through direct lobbying of Members of Congress, Congressional staff, and federal agencies. 
• Seeks opportunities to convey API messages to (and cultivate relationships with) elected officials, their staff, and allied organizations important in support of API’s advocacy priorities. 
• Represents API at various functions, and when necessary, makes speeches and gives presentations. 
• Coordinates and manages teams of member company Washington Representatives. 
• Develops and maintains effective working relationships with appropriate internal staff resources and external contacts including, but not limited to member company representatives, consultants, vendors, coalition/trade association partners and government agencies.  
• Works on special projects and other duties as assigned. 
• Occasional domestic travel may be required. 

Qualifications

• Requires 10 years of experience in a similar role and subject matter expertise.
• Bachelor's degree in relevant area, or other related field equivalent work experience. 
• Requires knowledge of key programmatic, operational, and financial issues and priorities.
• Degree in political science or relevant discipline required or equivalent experience. 
• Advocacy experience with proven track record of success in congressional, executive branch, trade association government relations, or related experience. 
• Working knowledge of congressional protocols and processes. 
• Working knowledge of executive branch protocols and processes. 
• Ability to prioritize and manage multiple issues, projects, tasks, and information/requests. 
• Ability to use independent judgment in evaluating situations/issues. 
• Working knowledge of Microsoft Office including Outlook, Word, Excel, PowerPoint, as well as experience working with Internet applications. 

Physical Requirements

• Able to remain in a stationary position working on a computer 
• Move about the office to access office machinery, meeting rooms, etc. on occasion 
• Operate a computer and other office machinery such as printers and copy machines 
• Transport items and equipment up to 10 lbs. on occasion

Travel Requirements

•  Up to 25% 

Percentage of travel time expected for the position, where the travel occurs, such as locally or in specific countries or states, and whether the travel is overnight.

This job outline describes the typical accountabilities and requirements of the position and should not be construed as an all-encompassing description of every duty performed by or expected of the incumbent.

EEO Statement

API is an equal opportunity employer and diversity is a core value.  We are dedicated to creating and sustaining an inclusive and equitable working environment for all.  All aspects of employment will be based on merit, competence, performance, and business needs. Our success in maintaining a reputation for professional excellence depends on selecting the best qualified candidates. Achieving this objective means that no employee or applicant for employment will be discriminated against because of race, color, religion, age, gender expression or identity, sexual orientation, pregnancy (including childbirth, related medical conditions, breastfeeding, and reproductive health decisions), genetic information, national origin, disability, marital status, personal appearance, family responsibilities, political affiliation, matriculation, credit information, the status as a victim or family member of a victim of domestic violence, stalking or sexual offense, or any prohibited basis under federal, state or local law.

API is committed to providing access, equal opportunity and reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities in employment, its services, programs, and activities. If you require reasonable accommodation in completing this application, interviewing, completing any pre-employment testing, or otherwise participating in the employee selection process, please direct your inquiries to the Human Resources Department via email at HumanResources@api.org.