Deputy Government Relations Leader

RSM US LLP•Washington, DC

1d•Hybrid

About The Position

The Deputy Government Relations Leader serves as the second-in-command within the Public Policy and Government Affairs (PPGA) office and is responsible for supporting the development and execution of the firm’s public policy and government affairs strategy. This role serves as a key liaison between the firm and federal, state, and local government stakeholders, while advancing policy priorities that support RSM’s business objectives and the modern middle market. The Deputy Leader partners closely with the PPGA Leader, firm leadership, and lines of business to monitor legislative and regulatory developments, provide actionable insights, and drive strategic engagement with policymakers, regulators, and industry associations. This role also supports thought leadership, advocacy efforts, and the management of external lobbying resources.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree required
12–15+ years of progressive leadership experience in federal policy development, government affairs
Significant experience in senior Capitol Hill roles (e.g., Chief of Staff, Legislative Director, Policy Director) or equivalent
Demonstrated strong relationships with Members of Congress, committees, and key staff
Deep understanding of the federal legislative and regulatory process, including rulemaking and committee procedures
Strong network within government, trade associations, and policy organizations
Proven ability to analyze policy impacts and develop policy positions, briefs, and commentary
Knowledge of lobbying laws, compliance requirements, and ethical standards
Excellent communication, interpersonal, and stakeholder management skills
Ability to collaborate across functions and influence senior leadership

Nice To Haves

Advanced degree (e.g., JD, MPP, MBA, or related field)
Experience working with key congressional committees such as: Senate Banking House Financial Services Senate Finance Ways and Means Appropriations or Budget Committees
Experience supporting or advising leadership roles within Congress or major policy organizations
Prior experience in professional services, financial services, or regulatory environments

Responsibilities

Support the development and execution of RSM’s government relations strategy aligned with firm priorities
Monitor, analyze, and interpret legislative and regulatory developments impacting RSM and its clients
Provide timely, actionable policy insights to support client service, business development, and go-to-market strategies
Advocate for policies that support the middle market, professional standards, and innovation in assurance, tax, and consulting
Ensure compliance with independence requirements, including restrictions related to attest clients
Build and maintain strong relationships with Members of Congress, congressional staff, and Executive Branch officials
Represent RSM in industry associations and coalitions (e.g., AICPA, Center for Audit Quality, National Association of Manufacturers, U.S. Chamber of Commerce)
Serve as a key external representative of the firm in public policy discussions and forums
Ensure consistent and coordinated engagement across all external touchpoints
Partner with line of business, industry, risk, and communications leaders to align public policy strategy with firm objectives
Partner with firm leadership to translate policy developments into business impact and client opportunities
Standardize how policy intelligence is deliverefd and utilized across the firm to support client engagement by equipping teams with relevant policy intelligence
Contribute to positioning RSM as a leading advisor to the modern middle market through policy-focused insights and commentary
Support the development of position papers, comment letters, testimony, and policy briefs
Assist in preparing executives for advocacy engagements and public-facing opportunities
Support the PPGA Leader in building and managing the firm’s government relations function
Assist in oversight and coordination of external lobbying firms and consultants in partnership with legal and compliance teams ensuring alignment and performance, including deliverables and ROI
Contribute to internal processes, reporting, and operational effectiveness of the PPGA function
Align public policy activities with firm risk management, independence, and compliance priorities and regulatory requirements
Collaborate with internal stakeholders (e.g., ORM, GCO, Audit Practice National Office, Office of Audit Quality) to ensure compliance
Maintain adherence to lobbying laws, reporting requirements, and ethical standards