Vice President for Government Affairs

Summary

The Vice President for Government Affairs directs AAHOA’s advocacy operations, represents the association’s interests before federal, state, and local governments, manages the association’s government affairs department and office in Washington, D.C., and serves on the association’s Executive Leadership Team reporting directly to the President and CEO.

S/he/they are also responsible to develop strategic plans and goals for the department, build strong relationships with external groups, and contribute to communications and messaging for the association.

Responsibilities

● Design strategic plans and measurable goals for the government affairs department federal and state/local advocacy, and the association’s political action committee

● Develop the associations public policy legislative priorities and effective strategies for implementation at the federal and state/local levels

● Represent AAHOA before Members of Congress, Elected Officials, the Administration and their staffs

● Oversee the association’s Political Action Committee (PAC). Includes strategic planning and implementation for fundraising, distribution, reporting, and compliance

● Lead a team of in-house government affairs professionals, manage external consultants, and establish the department’s annual budget

● Serve as the lead advocate on federal, state, and local issues as necessary

● Analyze legislative and regulatory proposals, draft policy documents and letters to lawmakers, draft hearing testimony, and collateral materials

● Build and maintain necessary relationships and partnerships with external organizations to advance the association’s policy and political priorities

● Represent the organization at industry and public forums, participate and lead issue-specific coalitions

● Plan and execute AAHOA advocacy conferences and legislative visits in Washington D.C. and state capitals

● Report to the association’s President and CEO, and Board of Directors as necessary

● Work with the communications team to provide content for internal and external communications. Includes media relations, talking points, public remarks, grassroots, and member engagement

Requirements

● 10+ years of experience as a government relations professional, serving on Capitol Hill, at a state legislature, executive agency, political campaigns, trade associations or similar roles

● J.D. or advanced degree preferred

● Excellent oral and written communications skills

● Experience successfully leading a team of professionals and/or consultants

● Demonstrated ability to address complex and sensitive policy and regulatory issues

● Respect for and strong knowledge in the diverse culture and background of first, second and third generation Americans and small business owners

● Team oriented leader who creates and fosters a welcoming, kind, stable, healthy, and thriving collaborative work environment