Manager, Government Relations

McDonald's Corporation•Chicago, IL

1d•Remote

About The Position

McDonald’s is proud to be one of the most recognized brands in the world, with restaurants in over 100 countries that serve 70 million customers daily. We continue to operate from a position of strength. Our updated growth strategy is focused on staying ahead of what our customers want and realizing further growth potential. Our relentless ambition is why McDonald’s remains one of the world’s leading corporations after almost 70 years. Joining McDonald's means thinking big and preparing for a career that can have influence around the world. At McDonald’s, we see every day as a chance to create positive impact. We lead through our values centered on inclusivity, service, integrity, community and family. From support of Ronald McDonald House Charities to our Youth Opportunity project and sustainability initiatives, our values keep us dedicated to using our scale for good: good for our customers, people, industry and planet. We also offer a broad range of outstanding benefits including a sabbatical program, tuition assistance and flexible work arrangements. Department OverviewMcDonald’s North America Impact Team is seeking a Manager, Government Relations, supporting the company’s Long Beach and Walnut Creek Field offices. The role will report to the Director, Government Relations, for the Long Beach and Walnut Creek Field Offices. The Manager will serve as McDonald's government relations representative for a territory that includes, or may include, the following states: Arizona, Alaska, California, Hawaii, Nevada, New Mexico, Oregon, and Washington. The role will be based remotely, preferably in California.DutiesA successful candidate will work as part of a dynamic team of Government Relations (GR) and Community Affairs professionals and consultants to support the development and implementation of advocacy strategies that advance McDonald’s state and local policy priorities. The Manager will be an effective collaborator, strong communicator, and proactive partner who helps the team anticipate legislative and regulatory trends affecting the McDonald’s system, including issues related to franchising, business operations, workforce development, sustainability, artificial intelligence, taxes, technology, food, and nutrition. The Manager will represent McDonald’s point of view and support engagement with key stakeholders—including policymakers, local elected officials, suppliers, owner/operators, business groups and trade associations. The role requires strong follow-through, an ability to work independently while receiving remote direction, and a commitment to protecting and enhancing McDonald’s reputation.

Requirements

Bachelor of Arts/Bachelor of Science degree.
5+ years of experience in corporate government relations or lobbying,
Working knowledge of state and local legislative processes and how government makes decisions.
Ability to understand complex policy issues and contribute to the development of clear, strategic recommendations.
Strong stakeholder‑management skills, including the ability to work with diverse and demanding audiences such as elected officials, executives, owner/operators, and community partners.
Demonstrated reliability in taking direction, following through on assignments, and communicating needs or roadblocks early.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills—clear, concise, and adaptable to multiple audiences.
Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities, meet deadlines, and operate effectively in a fast‑paced and fluid environment.
Ability to work independently while being managed remotely, maintaining regular and effective communication with GR leadership.
High level of professionalism, sound judgment, and commitment to ethical conduct.

Nice To Haves

Experience working with Quick Service Restaurants is highly preferred.
Additional experience in campaigns, legislative staffing, political activity, or related fields, highly preferred.
Experience working in or with local government officials on ordinances or ballot initiatives preferred.

Responsibilities

Support the development and execution of advocacy strategies that influence state and local legislative activity and advance business priorities, including direct lobbying, association engagement, and participation in third-party coalitions.
Monitor and assess political and public policy developments; help develop informed recommendations for senior GR leaders.
Represent McDonald’s on state and local legislation, regulations, or rules impacting the System and support work to achieve favorable outcomes.
Collaborate with GR leadership and the broader North America Impact team to ensure GR activities are aligned with cross-functional business priorities.
Work closely with the Director and VP of Government Relations, providing timely, proactive, and clear communication on priorities, updates, risks, and issues.
Demonstrate the ability to take direction, incorporate feedback, and adjust plans as needed.
Cultivate productive relationships with suppliers, owner/operators, and field teams to understand regional challenges and support effective GR strategies.
Build and maintain strong external relationships with state legislators, local government officials, regulators, and community partners.
Manage external consultants and legal counsel, setting expectations for deliverables and ensuring alignment with GR strategy.
Support internal alignment by informing partners about policy developments and potential business impacts.
Ensure strict compliance with all lobbying and ethics rules, reporting requirements, and relevant regulations.