Job Description
Deputy Director, Federal Affairs
Executive Office of Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer
The Executive Office of Governor Gretchen Whitmer is seeking a Deputy Director, Federal Affairs to join the team in the State of Michigan’s Washington, D.C. Office of Federal Affairs.
The Deputy Director, Federal Affairs works closely with the Director and senior Deputy Director to advance the State of Michigan’s goals with the federal government and U.S. Congress. He/she/they will coordinate with members of the Governor’s senior staff and state department leaders to develop and advance a proactive and strategic federal policy agenda. This position performs a variety of activities that are highly confidential or sensitive in nature and require attention to detail and accuracy.
The ideal candidate will have a thorough understanding of congressional legislative procedure and the federal regulatory process. This position necessitates an ability to foster coordination and collaboration amongst colleagues and with stakeholders. Candidates should feel comfortable working in a fast-paced environment and managing a heavy workload with competing priorities.
Role Responsibilities:
The Deputy Director, Federal Affairs reports to the Director, Federal Affairs and is responsible for the following:
• Serves as an advisor to the Governor and advances the state’s federal policy agenda on a broad range of issues, including:
o Energy/Environment
o K-12 Education/Child Care
o Defense/Veterans
o Homeland Security/FEMA
o Transportation/Infrastructure
o Telecom/Broadband
o Housing
• Federal lead on state’s COVID-19 pandemic response with respect to Strategic National Stockpile distributions, FEMA reimbursement, and National Guard deployment.
• Engage with federal agencies and the Michigan Congressional Delegation on important policies and programs impacting state agencies and departments.
• Foresee federal public policy opportunities that advance the interests of the Governor and the State of Michigan and develop strategies to execute those interests.
• Build positive relationships with state and federal governmental officials and institutions, as well as outside organizations involved in the formation of public policy.
• Convey and draft positions on federal policy issues, including memoranda, fact sheets, talking points, press releases, and comments for legislative hearings and administrative proceedings.
• Represent the Governor at National Governors Association meetings, as well as in discussions with The Conference of Great Lakes and St. Lawrence Governors and Premiers and the U.S. Climate Alliance.
• Staff the Governor and state department representatives during visits to Washington, D.C., and at events with federal officials and fellow governors.
• Assigns and monitors projects to office interns, when applicable.
Qualifications:
• 6-10 years Capitol Hill, Administration, and/or relevant federal affairs experience
• Superior organizational, written, and interpersonal communication skills.
• Ability to set and achieve goals/deadlines.
• Thorough attention to detail and accuracy.
• Ties to Michigan appreciated, though not required.
Additional Background:
This position is full-time, based in Washington, D.C., and requires occasional travel, though the office is currently working in a virtual environment. Salary dependent upon applicant's qualifications and previous experience. State employee benefits include medical, vision, and dental coverage, paid leave, and an employer contribution to your retirement fund.
How to Apply:
Please send a cover letter, resume, and references to Tamie Nolan at NolanT4@michigan.gov by COB Friday, March 12, 2021.