Director, Federal Affairs (Appropriations)

Association of Zoos and Aquariums•Silver Spring, MD

7d•Hybrid

About The Position

The Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) is seeking a Director, Federal Affairs to lead AZA’s and AZA Action’s government affairs activities on Capitol Hill. The Director will lobby on issues impacting the AZA community and build and maintain relationships with key congressional offices, with an emphasis on the House and Senate Committees on Appropriations. This position is a hybrid role with AZA and AZA’s advocacy organization, AZA Action. This position is based in our Silver Spring, MD headquarters and reports to the Senior Vice President, External Affairs. This position is eligible for a hybrid schedule with a minimum of 2 days per week in the office or on Capitol Hill.

Requirements

5+ years of congressional affairs experience, preferably on Capitol Hill, with a political campaign, and/or with a member service association
2+ years of experience leading projects, teams, or key initiatives
Bachelor’s degree required
Strong knowledge of the U.S. federal legislative and political processes
Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with congressional offices and non-governmental organization representatives
Strong strategic, diplomatic, and organizational skills
Exceptional skills in communication, both oral and written
Ability to work both independently and as a part of a team
Ability to represent AZA, its programs, and members professionally and to serve as a voice to external audiences
Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with AZA staff and Association members
Ability to travel required

Nice To Haves

major in political science or related field strongly preferred
Previous experience with zoos and aquariums or related organizations a plus

Responsibilities

Lead the development and implementation of AZA's appropriations congressional outreach strategy, including lobbying congressional offices to further AZA’s policy goals
Build relationships and maintain frequent interactions with members of Congress and staff
Attend political events and Capitol Hill hearings and briefings
Grow and support the bipartisan Congressional Zoo and Aquarium Caucus
Develop issue briefs and other documents and materials to support AZA’s congressional advocacy efforts
Support planning AZA’s Advocacy Day in Washington, D.C., including the annual congressional reception
Participate in relevant policy coalitions
Help coordinate activities of the AZA Government Affairs Committee, particularly the Legislative & Policy Working Group
Attend AZA conferences and related meetings to support departmental responsibilities which may include presenting information, assisting with sessions, or coordinating activities.
Perform other duties as requested