Manager of Government Relations

Main Street America

89d • $78,000 - $93,600

About The Position

The Manager of Government Relations will advance MSA’s federal, state, and local Policy Agenda through legislative monitoring, policy analysis, coalition engagement, and advocacy training. This position ensures Main Street communities have access to capacity-building resources and policy tools while equipping local leaders to effectively advocate for their priorities. As a member of a small, dedicated Government Relations team, the Manager uses network resources and partnerships to develop advocacy solutions to Policy Agenda goals. The ideal candidate for this role is a detail-oriented project manager with a passion for improving communities across the county through policy and advocacy.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree required.
• 3-5 years of previous experience, preferably related to public policy and economic development.
• Demonstrated interest in and passion for improving social and economic outcomes in communities through issues related to MSA’s Policy Agenda.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills to execute Policy Agenda-related advocacy.
• Experience building relationships with constituent groups, external partners, and colleagues to advance goals.
• Manages complex projects in a detail-oriented manner.
• Strong, sound judgement while maintaining flexibility.
• Ability to work in a remote-first environment.
• Ability to travel occasionally (approximately 1-2 engagements per quarter).

Nice To Haves

• Master’s degree in public administration, urban planning, political science, or related field.
• Professional experience with the policy-making process.
• Prior experience in organizing advocacy campaigns, conducting advocacy training with groups, or managing a cohort or community of practice model.
• Prior professional experience in a role related to the built environment, economic development, or community development.
• Located in, or within easy travel distance of, the Washington, D.C. metro area.

Responsibilities

• Lead MSA’s Advocacy Community of Practice.
• Deliver advocacy training for Coordinating Programs and local leaders.
• Represent MSA in coalition meetings, federal agency convenings, and policy events.
• Support execution of Hill Day and advocacy programming at the Main Street Now Conference.
• Track emerging and passed federal legislation relevant to MSA and prepare policy analyses.
• Assist in implementing the MSA Policy Agenda, including dissemination to external stakeholders and MSA member engagement.
• Identify and share government funding opportunities with members and partners.
• Draft public comments, policy briefs, and research reports.
• Serve as primary contact for government relations content and external policy communications.
• Collaborate with other departments to ensure coordinated messaging.
• Develop educational materials, success stories, and case studies for the MSA network.
• Partner and collaborate with colleagues on long-term organizational goals.
• Participate in cross-team initiatives and contribute to strategic planning.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Benefits

• Comprehensive health insurance (medical, dental, and vision)
• Generous paid time off, including more than 25 holidays annually
• Flexible 35-hour workweek and 'Rejuvenation Weeks' for focus and planning
• Professional development funds and training opportunities
• Retirement plan contributions and a pre-tax 403(b) plan option

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Education Level: Bachelor's degree