Vice President, Government Relations

United States Soccer Federation 1•Atlanta, GA

About The Position

The Vice President, Government Relations will assist in establishing the public policy agenda and executing a government affairs strategy to achieve these goals at the local, state, and federal levels. They will possess a business and brand management mindset. They will take the time to understand the needs of USSF and will map strategies and tactics to achieve high levels of performance.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree
Minimum of 8 years of experience in government relations, public affairs, or related fields, with a focus on state and/or local government engagement
Strong understanding of state and municipal legislative and regulatory processes, and how they intersect with community and economic development
Proven success developing and executing advocacy or partnership strategies with public officials at the state or local level
Excellent relationship-building and communication skills with policymakers, civic organizations, and business leaders
Strong analytical and writing skills with the ability to communicate complex issues clearly and persuasively
Demonstrated political acumen, sound judgment, and an ability to navigate dynamic stakeholder environments
Capable of working in fast-paced and demanding environments
Must be able to connect “micro” details to the “macro” vision and mission
Proficient experience with Microsoft Suite (Word, PowerPoint, Excel, and Outlook)

Nice To Haves

Advanced degree (e.g., law, public policy, or related field) preferred
Background in sports, nonprofits, or government
Experience working in or with the State of Georgia preferred
Familiarity with federal agencies or national-level sports policy is a plus
Senior presence and ability to influence diverse audiences
Skilled coalition builder who can unify local and regional partners around shared objectives
Strategic thinker with a passion for civic engagement and the role of sport
Collaborative, collegial, and solution-oriented leadership style

Responsibilities

The Vice President, Government Relations will work with the Chief Legal Officer, EVP Corporate Development to help set and drive the U.S. Soccer Federations public policy agenda and at the local, state, and federal level.
S/He will coordinate activities of individuals who are lobbying for the Federation and will work with other sports and entertainment organizations throughout the United States with a specific focus on the State of Georgia and Washington D.C.
This individual will also work directly with Federation membership regarding their own legislative agendas and Washington meetings.
The Vice President, Government Relations will coordinate selectively with federal partners on issues of importance to the Federation, including large-scale events such as the 2031 FIFA Women’s World Cup, youth sports development initiatives (in collaboration with the Soccer Forward Foundation), and nonprofit sector policy.
This individual will ensure U.S. Soccer is viewed as a trusted and valued partner across all levels of government, fostering community impact, promoting soccer’s growth, and strengthening U.S. Soccer’s reputation as a civic leader.
This individual will also lead stakeholder engagement with state and local leaders in Georgia, with a specific emphasis on the City of Atlanta and Fayetteville, home of the Arthur M. Blank National Training Center.
Develop and strengthen relationships with local elected officials, business leaders, community organizations, and civic stakeholders to ensure the new headquarters are a source of pride and opportunity for the local community and help position U.S. Soccer as a positive community partner.
Develop and execute a federal, state and local government relations strategy that aligns with U.S. Soccer’s strategic, community, and public affairs priorities in support of our members.
Build and sustain strong relationships with state and local elected officials, civic leaders, and key stakeholders in Washington DC, Georgia and across other priority markets (including host cities).
Lead engagement with local economic development authorities, chambers, and community organizations to advance partnership opportunities, facility development, and local investment.
Monitor and influence state and municipal policy issues relevant to U.S. Soccer’s mission, including (in collaboration with US Soccer’s affiliate, Soccer Forward Foundation) youth sports access, facilities development, tourism, event permitting, and safety.
Coordinate with internal teams to ensure alignment between government outreach, community impact, communications, and membership engagement efforts.
Partner closely with the two VPs, for Corporate and External Communications.
Support government and community engagement for major events such as the 2026 FIFA World Cup, 2031 Women’s World Cup, including collaboration with host cities, state officials, and federal agencies involved in planning, security, and infrastructure.
Serve as a visible representative of U.S. Soccer with local business, civic, and nonprofit leaders, ensuring soccer’s growth delivers meaningful community benefits.
Maintain effective coordination with federal agencies and Congressional offices on issues affecting the broader soccer ecosystem (e.g., sports diplomacy, youth participation, and public-private partnerships).
Manage relationships with external consultants, advocacy partners, and coalition organizations that support U.S. Soccer’s public affairs agenda