Director of Political Affairs

Description

This position is responsible for managing the Association’s Political Action Committee (ASHA-PAC), and coordinating all political fundraising activities for the purpose of advancing the Association’s Public Policy Agenda on behalf of the professions of audiology and speech-language pathology.

Responsibilities

1. Manages all aspects of ASHA-PAC, including:  a) developing fundraising strategies; b) issuing and tracking disbursements; c) recording all transactions; d) preparing financial and activity reports, and; e) ensuring full compliance with all relevant laws and regulations.  Further manages all lobbying disclosure reports on behalf of the Government Affairs and Public Policy cluster.
2. Assesses credibility and viability of candidates for federal office, including incumbents, who seek the support of ASHA-PAC.
3. Organizes and attends political events on behalf of ASHA-PAC.
4. Collaborates on identifying, developing, executing, and evaluating coordinated advocacy strategies designed to advance ASHA’s Public Policy Agenda.
5. Engages in federal strategic lobbying activities as needed.
6. Collaborates on strategic communications, messaging, and grassroots materials that are designed to advance ASHA’s Public Policy Agenda.  Develops articles and other products for online and print communications.
7. Serves as ex-officio to the ASHA-PAC Board.

Knowledge Typically Acquired Through

• Bachelor’s degree in political science, government, public policy or a related field; an advanced degree is preferred
• 5 years of experience in campaign finance or political action committee management; experience at a nonprofit association is preferred

Scope and Depth of Technical Skills/Knowledge

• Demonstrated ability in managing political fundraising activities, and successfully meeting fundraising goals
• Demonstrated knowledge of all compliance and filing laws and regulations
• Demonstrated ability in strategic lobbying activities
• Demonstrated ability to successfully influence and persuade Members of Congress and Congressional staff
• Extensive existing relationships with key Members of Congress and Congressional staff
• Demonstrated ability to establish and maintain strategic relationships with lawmakers, policymakers and allied stakeholders
• Demonstrated understanding of the federal legislative process
• Working knowledge of health care and education policies that impact the Association
• Working knowledge of communications sciences and disorders is desirable

Scope and Depth of Non-Technical Skills/Knowledge

• Strong collaborative and facilitative leadership skills.
• Excellent interpersonal skills.
• Demonstrated ability to prioritize, organize, and execute multiple tasks simultaneously.
• Demonstrated problem-solving skills and a creative approach to work.
• Ability to work effectively under pressure with tight deadlines.
• Demonstrated ability to achieve consensus when opposing viewpoints are presented.