Associate Director, Higher Education Government Affairs

APCO • Washington, DC

114d • $90,000 - $120,000

About The Position

We are seeking a dynamic, entrepreneurial Associate Director to join our strategic growth team to help drive new business, build account teams, and deliver superior service to clients. This role will serve as chief deputy to a senior director in our Office of the Executive Chairman, working to expand APCO’s market footprint in higher education and beyond. As a trusted advisor to our clients—ranging from leading research universities to higher education associations and the business and industry supporting them —you will steer government relations, crisis and issues management, market visibility and other strategies that advance institutional priorities, shape policy outcomes, and strengthen reputational standing. In parallel, you will devote approximately 50% of your time to business development, identifying and cultivating new client relationships and opportunities in industry sectors outside higher education as identified by the Senior Director and Chief Growth Officer.

Requirements

• 8+ years of professional experience within government relations, public affairs, or public policy, with substantial time spent on the legislative or communications team in a congressional office.
• Significant, direct experience working for a college, university or higher education association, preferably in a c-suite role.
• Demonstrated success developing and implementing advocacy strategies and managing complex relationships.
• Persuasive writing skills with a keen focus on proper word usage, punctuation and other elements of AP Style and the ability to synthesize complex issues for diverse audiences.
• Strong, effective communicator with proven public speaking and presentation skills.
• Aptitude in business development or client acquisition.
• Effective networker, connector, collaborator and relationship builder.
• Strategic thinker and entrepreneurial mindset.
• Bachelor’s degree required; advanced degree preferred.

Nice To Haves

• Experience in public policy issues affecting research universities and non-profit organizations.
• Familiarity with economic and community development policies and funding streams relevant to higher education.
• Experience in leading cross-functional teams.

Responsibilities

• Develop, lead, and execute integrated government relations strategies for clients, leveraging deep knowledge of Congressional, federal, and state legislative processes.
• Serve as a primary point of contact for client executives, providing counsel on policy impacts, regulatory developments, and advocacy opportunities.
• Analyze, track, and communicate the implications of proposed legislation, regulations, and funding opportunities relevant to higher education.
• Build and maintain relationships with key policymakers, regulatory agencies, and stakeholder organizations at the federal, state, and local levels.
• Represent clients in meetings, hearings, and coalition-building efforts; prepare briefing materials, position papers, and advocacy communications.
• Partner with firm leadership to identify, pursue, and secure new business opportunities—networking and building relationships, crafting proposals, leading pitch meetings, and expanding the firm’s visibility and reputation in the marketplace.
• Develop and implement strategies that engage prospective clients.
• Contribute to firm thought leadership through research, writing, and participation in industry events.
• Mentor and manage junior team members, fostering a culture of excellence and professional growth.

Benefits

• Equal Opportunity Employer
• Commitment to diversity and inclusion
• Positive work experience and welcoming environment

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Education Level: Bachelor's degree
• Number of Employees: 501-1,000 employees