Manager, Issue Advocacy

American Petroleum Institute • Washington, DC

11h

About The Position

The Manager, Issue Advocacy Campaigns helps lead the strategic planning and execution of issue advocacy campaigns across federal and state landscapes. This role plays a central part in the Public Affairs division—integrating political strategy, message development, grassroots mobilization, and voter engagement to advance the organization’s public policy objectives. The position involves coordinating cross-functional campaign teams and external consultants, tracking political and candidate activity, and ensuring campaign deliverables are met with excellence and impact.

This is a highly collaborative role that works cross-functionally within the Public Affairs division. The position also supports colleagues in Government Affairs, Legal, Policy, Economics, and Regulatory Affairs. The ideal candidate is an experienced campaign professional with a passion for building made-for-purpose campaigns from the ground up. Success in this role requires a mix of creativity, initiative, and strategic thinking—along with communication skills, strong data instincts, and the ability to align stakeholders around a clear, consistent message. You should thrive in a fast-paced environment, be eager to learn, and bring a competitive edge to issue advocacy.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Political Science, Communications, Public Policy, or a related field.
• 5–7 years of experience in political campaigns, public affairs, issue advocacy, or government relations.
• Proven track record leading high-impact advocacy or electoral campaigns.
• Deep understanding of U.S. political landscape, including federal and state-level dynamics.
• Strong writing, strategic thinking, project management, and leadership skills.
• Experience managing vendors, budgets, timelines, and external partnerships.
• Ability to work under pressure, meet tight deadlines, and manage multiple complex projects simultaneously.

Nice To Haves

• Advanced degree a plus.

Responsibilities

• Lead strategic advocacy campaigns that drive public awareness and policy outcomes aligned with API’s mission.
• Develop and execute integrated campaign plans including messaging, digital engagement, earned and paid media, political organizing, and voter contact programs.
• Analyze political and electoral environments to inform campaign strategies; track candidate stances and election-related developments.
• Collaborate with internal teams (communications, government relations, legal, and data) to ensure aligned and compliant advocacy activities.
• Build and manage relationships with member companies, consultants, vendors, and third-party partners involved in campaigns.
• Coordinate message development, polling, audience targeting, and other campaign inputs across the public affairs team to ensure credibility, reach, and effectiveness.
• Ensure campaign reporting, performance tracking, and outcome evaluations are completed to inform future efforts.
• Manage external consultants and oversee campaign budgets and timelines.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Manager