Public Law and Policy Fellow (FARA)

Akin Gump Strauss Hauer & Feld LLP•Washington, DC

2d•Hybrid

About The Position

Akin Gump Strauss Hauer & Feld LLP is seeking a Public Law and Policy Fellow for its Public Law and Policy practice. Based in the firm’s Washington, DC office with hybrid work capabilities, the Fellow works under the general supervision and direction of assigned attorneys, advisors, or practice management and supports the needs of the practice, with a particular focus on Foreign Agents Registration Act (FARA) matters and clients. The role involves policy research, monitoring, and analysis of issues relevant to clients. The Fellow must be eligible to register as a lobbyist under FARA; FARA registration is required to perform the role’s responsibilities. The Fellow is expected to provide superior service to firm attorneys, advisors, and staff while fostering teamwork and continuous improvement. The position is full-time and regular, with a stated schedule of 9:00 AM to 5:30 PM. The anticipated base salary in Washington, DC is $62,000. Actual salary will depend on factors including education, qualifications, relevant experience, certifications or licenses, job-related knowledge and skills, business needs, and work location. The total compensation package may include health and other insurance benefits, financial and other benefits including 401(k) eligibility, a discretionary bonus, and paid time off.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree required.
Must be eligible to register as a lobbyist under FARA; FARA registration is required for the role.
Understanding of political and legislative processes.
Understanding of regulatory and administrative processes.
Strong research, writing, and monitoring skills.
Ability to work proactively and demonstrate initiative.
Ability to work independently, multitask, and prioritize competing tasks under pressure and time constraints.
Ability to work in a team setting and collaborate with peers.
Commitment to maintaining confidentiality of client, firm, and office information and adhering to the Firm’s Core Values.
Commitment to professional growth and development.
Proficiency in Windows operating systems and Microsoft Office, including Word, Outlook, Excel, and PowerPoint.
Comfort with video conferencing systems such as Zoom.

Nice To Haves

Background in policy, business, and the regulatory and legislative processes preferred.
Familiarity and a strong background in international affairs, foreign policy, and FARA requirements.

Responsibilities

Maintain working knowledge of the legislative process, Capitol Hill, and the Executive Branch.
Keep abreast of pending legislation and regulations, industry trends, and current events affecting clients and prospective clients.
Monitor and report on media relevant to clients and their interests.
Attend and summarize Congressional hearings and markups.
Conduct extensive, in-depth, and time-sensitive research and package findings.
Draft client-facing talking points, articles, briefings, client alerts, letters, and other memoranda.
Coordinate and/or attend meetings with Members of Congress and/or their staff alongside members of the Public Law & Policy team, other practices, and clients.
Research and monitor legislative, regulatory, and international affairs policy developments relevant to Akin’s FARA clients.
Prepare summaries, analyses, and briefing materials on key issues and policies of interest to clients.
Perform other legislative support functions as required.