overview
The New England Council seeks an experienced, energetic professional to serve as Director of Federal Affairs. With offices in Boston, MA, and Washington, DC, The New England Council is a non-partisan regional business association representing over 500 businesses and organizations throughout the six New England states. The Director of Federal Affairs will play a key role supporting the Council’s mission to advocate for policy that promotes economic growth and quality of life in the New England region, with a particular focus on higher education and technology policy.
Location & Schedule
This position is based in the Council’s Washington, DC, office and will require occasional travel to Boston. Remote work will be permitted as the work schedule allows, however this position does involve in-person meetings with Council members and Congressional offices, as well as attendance at both Council-hosted and external events.
Duties & Responsibilities
- Serve as the lead staffer for all Council advocacy and programming in several key issue areas, including Higher Education and Technology & Innovation.
- Develop and maintain relationships with members in the Higher Education and Technology industries to ensure continued engagement and participation with the Council.
- Work closely with Council members to identify priorities, develop positions, and articulate those positions to the New England Congressional delegation and/or relative federal agencies through letters, meetings, op-eds, and events.
- Monitor federal legislation and other policy proposals of interest to members in assigned issue areas and provide timely and informative updates to members.
- Develop programming for members on issues and topics of concern to the New England business community, including arranging for legislative briefings, guest speakers and panel discussions in both New England and Washington, DC.
- Assist membership staff in identifying prospective members in assigned industries, and support membership recruitment and retention efforts.
Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree and 7-10 years of relevant government or government relations work experience. Experience on Capitol Hill and/or in higher education or technology policy preferred, but not required.
- Understanding of the federal legislative process.
- Excellent written and oral communication skills, organization skills, and attention to detail.
- Strong ability to multi-task and manage multiple responsibilities, including both short- and long-term projects.
- Self-starter who takes initiative to develop and execute projects with minimal supervision.
- Team player with an outgoing and enthusiastic personality.
Compensation
Salary commensurate with experience. Excellent benefits package including medical and dental coverage, 401(k) plan with employer contribution.