Director of Government Affairs

Groundwork Collaborative•Washington, DC

2d•$145,000 - $179,000•Hybrid

About The Position

Groundwork Collaborative, launched in 2018, is driven by the idea that a thriving economy is one where everyone is doing well. The organization fights for progressive economic policy and narrative change to build accountable public power, break up concentrations of private power, and center those historically excluded from prosperity, ultimately aiming for a stronger and more resilient economy. Groundwork's unique structure combines strategic communications, think tank functions, and issue advocacy to drive narrative and policy change with credibility and impact. They engage with four core audiences: the media, policymakers, economic experts, and grasstops leaders, using targeted policy campaigns and timely research and messaging to advance an inclusive economic worldview. This position is a pivotal role in economic policymaking. The Director of Government Affairs will lead direct engagement with Congress and the executive branch, shape policy engagement strategy, and connect Groundwork's expertise, research, and messaging with relevant lawmakers and staff. Reporting to the Vice President of Government Affairs, this role is a senior position within the Partnerships and Influence team. Groundwork's impact has grown significantly, supported by a strong government affairs program that makes their work accessible to elected officials and their staff. This role is ideal for someone who can shape a government engagement agenda, build relationships in Washington, and represent an organization with credibility and impact.

Requirements

Relevant experience in government relations, legislative work on the Hill, congressional affairs work in the executive branch, and/or government affairs work at a nonprofit organization.
Experience in preparing witnesses for congressional committee hearings.
A commitment to creating a just, inclusive, and robust economy that delivers opportunity and dignity to all.
Strong familiarity with federal economic policymaking institutions (including Congress, executive branch agencies, and the White House).
Existing government staff relationships and policy coalition networks.
Ability to write and speak with clarity and persuasion.
Highly organized and able to thrive driving work forward under tight deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
Creative thinking and entrepreneurial drive to developing new strategies that secure advocacy wins.
Experience interfacing directly and managing relationships with government officials and senior staff.

Responsibilities

Partner with the Vice President of Government Affairs and Associate Director of Congressional Affairs to design and drive an outreach strategy that advances both immediate and long-term economic policy priorities.
Broaden and deepen relationships with congressional committees and offices to amplify Groundwork’s core messages.
Serve as Groundwork’s liaison to the federal government, spotting and seizing opportunities for strategic engagement.
Craft sharp, persuasive materials for policymakers and their staff including but not limited to talking points, fact sheets, letters, testimony, and more.
Lead meetings, briefings, hearing prep, and other high-stakes engagement with government officials and staff.
Keep colleagues informed on legislative and executive branch activity.
Proactively communicate across internal and external stakeholders.
Support and mentor staff members, especially those on the Partnerships and Influence team.
Serve as a trusted thought partner and technical resource to the team and organizational leadership on all things government.
Move fast when news breaks, analyzing and responding to Congressional and executive developments in real time.