What are the responsibilities and job description for the Director of Federal Affairs position at Texas Public Policy Foundation?
The Texas Public Policy Foundation (TPPF) is seeking a Director of Federal Affairs to join our Washington, D.C. office. This position will primarily support the Foundation’s States Trust initiative, which aims to restore the appropriate balance of power between the states and the federal government in accordance with the Tenth Amendment. The ideal candidate will have a proven track record of developing and maintaining strong relationships with members of Congress, legislative staff, and other key stakeholders. They will be a capable policy generalist—able to navigate a range of subject areas while applying a consistent set of principles—and will have demonstrated success not just in understanding policy, but also in enacting meaningful change.
About TPPF:
The Texas Public Policy Foundation (TPPF) is a 501(c)3 nonprofit research-based think tank in Austin, Texas. Established in 1989, TPPF promotes conservative principles and develops free-market approaches to public policy challenges affecting Texans and all Americans. To achieve its mission, TPPF analyzes complex issues, creates legislative policy solutions, and advocates for those solutions at the Texas Legislature, Congress, and other public forums.
Life at TPPF:
The Foundation offers a unique opportunity to be part of an organization that shapes the future of Texas & beyond through innovative thought leadership. At TPPF, you will have the opportunity to be part of an engaged team whose mission is to create a freer future for all Texans and Americans. We look for individuals who are passionate about advancing conservative public policy and embody servant leadership. With a strong belief in personal responsibility, we trust our people and want to empower them to make the right decisions for the right reasons – this is why it is crucial we bring the right people on board. We value our team and work to cultivate a culture of hard work, entrepreneurship, intellectual curiosity, and collaboration. As a team, we support one another and strive to create an environment in which our team members are inspired to excel, motivated to innovate, and empowered to be servant leaders for the cause of liberty.
Key Responsibilities
Monitor and Analyze Policy Trends: Track and evaluate evolving legislative and regulatory developments on Capitol Hill, in the Executive Branch, and among state legislatures to determine where TPPF research can be most beneficial.
Facilitate Expert Engagement: Identify and coordinate opportunities for TPPF scholars to provide congressional testimony, host Capitol Hill briefings, and participate in external policy events.
Cultivate Strategic Relationships: Serve as a primary point of contact for members of Congress, congressional staff, agency officials, and partner organizations, communicating TPPF’s research and policy proposals.
Liaise with TPPF Leadership: Act as the conduit between Washington-based government offices/organizations and TPPF’s senior leadership and scholars on all federal policy matters and events.
Manage Scheduling and Coordination: Oversee and schedule meetings for TPPF senior leadership and scholars with members of Congress and administration officials, ensuring efficient use of time and resources.
Strengthen Policymaker Engagement: Build and maintain excellent professional relationships with D.C. policymakers and staff, continually expanding TPPF’s network of contacts to ensure States Trust and TPPF remain go-to sources for research.
Oversee States Trust Campaign Engagement: Manage States Trust’s involvement in issue-based campaigns, attending weekly campaign meetings and maximizing opportunities to share TPPF research with policymakers and administration officials.
Qualifications
5–8 years of experience in federal policy or related fields
Demonstrated passion for federal policy, with a proven ability to cultivate productive relationships with policymakers and staff
High level of energy and an entrepreneurial mindset
Self-starter who can work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced environment
Strong planning and organizational skills, with the ability to adapt to shifting priorities
Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Teams, Outlook, Word)
Commitment to TPPF’s principles of liberty, personal responsibility, and free enterprise
If you are a proactive and enthusiastic leader with a desire to influence federal policy, we encourage you to apply for this exciting opportunity.
Benefits at TPPF:
TPPF values our team members and strives to provide a comprehensive benefits package so that our people can focus on achieving the mission. We offer competitive salaries and excellent health insurance, for staff & dependents. In addition, we have generous Paid Time Off (PTO) policies, including holidays and parental leave, and retirement contribution matching.
The position’s salary will be commensurate with the experience, expertise, and skills of the candidate who takes the position. The Texas Public Policy Foundation is a non-profit, non-partisan research institute offering competitive salaries and benefits to qualified candidates.