Federal Strategy Director

Overview

AARP is the nation's largest nonprofit, nonpartisan organization dedicated to empowering people 50 and older to choose how they live as they age. With a nationwide presence and nearly 38 million members, AARP strengthens communities and advocates for what matters most to families: health security, financial stability and personal fulfillment. AARP also produces the nation's largest circulation publications: AARP The Magazine and AARP Bulletin.

AARP's Community, State and National Affairs (CSN) Group includes Government Relations, Programs, Volunteer Engagement, Community Outreach and Advocacy at the federal, state and local levels. It delivers on AARP's social mission by educating and engaging people 50-plus and their families, strengthening communities, and championing issues that help give people financial and health security.

The Federal Strategy Director builds and maintains the organization's relationships with Members of Congress, personal office staff, and committee staff, as well as internal and external stakeholders who AARP works with to achieve the organization's advocacy goals. Identifies strategic opportunities for AARP to engage with Members of Congress and other stakeholders. Plans and executes events with AARP leadership and government officials. Provides strategic counsel on political and policy issues to organizational leadership.

Responsibilities

• Maintains constant contact with Members of Congress as well as personal office and committee office staff.
• Develops and implements grassroots/grasstops advocacy events such as fly-ins and targeted advocacy meetings.
• Collaborates with cross-functional teams, as well as internal and external partners (other lobbyists, coalitions, and professional associations) to achieve the organization's advocacy goals.
• Assist in developing strategies for lobbying Congress in coordination with national and state office teams.
• Covers and reports on committee hearings, legislative activities, and sponsorship events with Members of Congress.
• Writes memos and reports to senior leadership on political developments and intelligence.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Political Science, Public Affairs, Business Administration or related field.
• 10+ years of experience in public policy and/or advocacy.
• Strong network and connections to Republican Senators, Members, congressional staff, public interest groups, think tanks, and trade associations.
• Good understanding of legislative and political processes.
• Ability to think strategically.

Additional Requirements

• Regular and reliable job attendance
• Effective verbal and written communication skills
• Exhibit respect and understanding of others to maintain professional relationships
• Independent judgement in evaluation options to make sound decisions.
• In office/open office environment with the ability to work effectively surrounded by moderate noise

Flexible Work Arrangement (FWA)

AARP observes Mondays and Fridays as telecommuting workdays, except for essential functions. Remote work and telecommuting can only be done within the United States and its territories.

Compensation and Benefits

AARP offers a competitive compensation and benefits package including a 401(k); 100% company-funded pension plan; health, dental, and vision plans; life insurance; paid time off to include company and individual holidays, vacation, sick, caregiving, and parental leave; performance-based and peer-based recognition; tuition reimbursement; among others.

Equal Employment Opportunity

AARP is an equal opportunity employer committed to hiring a diverse workforce and sustaining an inclusive culture. AARP does not discriminate on the basis of race, ethnicity, religion, sex, color, national origin, age, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, mental or physical disability, genetic information, veteran status, or on any other basis prohibited by applicable law.