Civil Air Patrol (CAP) seeks a Director of Government Relations to lead its federal legislative and funding strategy from its Washington, D.C. location. This full-time role focuses on securing and advancing CAP's federal authorization and appropriations priorities by managing engagement with Congress and relevant federal agencies.
About the Role
The Director of Government Relations is responsible for developing and executing Civil Air Patrol's federal government relations strategy. This position serves as the organizational lead for the federal authorization and appropriations cycle, aiming to advance annual defense authorization and appropriations objectives in alignment with CAP's mission and strategic plan. Key responsibilities include tracking and advancing federal requests through the legislative process, identifying opportunities for favorable outcomes, and managing engagement with congressional members and staff, federal agency officials, and administration stakeholders. The role also involves leading government relations operations, establishing performance metrics, and providing executive reporting on outcomes.
Requirements
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Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university in political science, public policy, government, law, public administration, business, communications, or a related field, or an equivalent combination of education and directly relevant experience.
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A minimum of 5 years of progressively responsible experience in federal government relations, congressional affairs, legislative affairs, appropriations, authorization, or public policy.
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Demonstrated success in developing and advancing federal appropriations, authorization, legislative, or policy priorities, achieving measurable outcomes such as securing federal funding or advancing favorable legislative language.
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Experience working with members of Congress, congressional staff, professional committee staff, federal agency officials, or senior military and civilian leaders.
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Exceptional analytical, research, writing, and oral communication skills, including experience preparing various types of congressional submissions and policy documents.
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Demonstrated ability to advise senior leaders, lead cross-functional initiatives, supervise staff, manage multiple time-sensitive priorities, and exercise sound judgment, discretion, integrity, political acumen, and nonpartisan professionalism.
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Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced environment and manage multiple priorities with the ability to meet short deadlines.
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Valid driver's license.
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Ability to obtain a security clearance, if requested.
Qualifications
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Direct experience with the House or Senate Armed Services Committees or the House or Senate Appropriations Subcommittees on Defense is preferred.
Supervisory Responsibilities
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Supervises a team of paid and volunteer staff members responsible for providing legislative advocacy capabilities to support CAP’s strategic goals and initiatives.