The Director of Government Affairs leads the association’s federal policy, lobbying, advocacy and coalition activities. The individual also provides analysis of legislation and regulations and advocates on selected issues on behalf of PTA members before Congress and the Administration. The Director works closely with volunteer leadership and collaborates across the association on policy and advocacy efforts.
JOB FUNCTIONS
Public Policy
Leads National PTA’s federal policy and lobbying activities, including the association’s congressional and administration outreach
Manages and maintains key relationships with education groups and coalitions to further National PTA’s mission and public policy priorities
Oversees the development and production of National PTA’s Public Policy Agenda
Monitors and analyzes legislation, best practices and federal funding streams in selected policy areas
Provides strategic analysis of federal programs and policies to PTA leadership
Advocates on behalf of PTA members to a variety of external audiences, including congressional staff, federal agencies and the Administration, and representatives of other national education organizations
Prepares letters to Congress and the Administration, coalition sign-on letters, public comment and testimony
Drafts legislation and report language for congressional offices and committees to advance PTA’s policy agenda
Attends Capitol Hill, White House and agency briefings, coalition meetings, congressional hearings and mark-ups, press conferences and other policy-related meetings to gather and present information
Oversees the association’s annual Legislative Conference and project management team
Develops strategic advocacy campaigns and communications that result in grassroots activation of PTA state and local membership in support of the association’s public policy agenda
Volunteer Management & Engagement
Serves as a staff liaison to selected National volunteer committee(s) and/or task force(s)
Oversees engagement and advocacy efforts of the Federal Legislative Chairs (FLCs), a state network of grasstop volunteers
Establishes and maintain positive working relationships with National PTA elected leadership and state PTA leaders and members
Business Operations, General Functions & Duties
Supervise, mentor and coach Government Affairs staff; provide guidance, work direction and evaluate performance
Work with other departments on organizational projects and programs
Oversee and maintain vendor and consultant relationships
Prepare, manage, and monitor government affairs department budget
Represent National PTA at necessary public events, panels, workshops, conferences and advocacy gatherings
Other duties as assigned by the Deputy Director of Communications and Government Affairs
WORKING CONDITIONS
Work is performed in a professional office environment; general office hours are 8:30 AM – 5:30 PM
Position may be required to work occasional evenings and weekends for special programs and/or events
Incumbents routinely uses standard office equipment including computers, phones, photocopiers, etc.
This is a largely sedentary role. Routine activities and special events may require the ability to lift files, packages and related materials weighing up to 20 lbs and to bend or stand as necessary
Position requires ≤ 10% travel domestically
QUALIFICATIONS
Minimum of a Bachelor’s degree
At least 7 years of related experience in public policy, working on Capitol Hill, in a state legislature, or non-profit association
Senior level policy and legislative experience, including thorough knowledge of 501(c)3 legislative and lobbying rules and processes
Knowledge of legislative and regulatory processes and education and child advocacy issues is required
Understanding of, and experience in, non-profit and affiliate or chapter-based associations
REQUIRED SKILLS
Strong time and task management skills
Professional demeanor and excellent interpersonal and verbal/written communication skills
Effective organizational, analytical and problem-solving skills
Proven ability to prioritize, execute project tasks and conform to shifting priorities as needed
Highly motivated and independent, yet team-oriented
Ability to meet deadlines and use technology to improve workflow and work productively in a collaborative environment
Excellent customer service skills
Demonstrated presentation and public speaking skills
Possess strong computer/technology skills
KEY COMPETENCIES
Job Knowledge
Teamwork & Collaboration
Communication
Organizational Relations
Initiative
Decision-Making/Judgment
Analytical Skills
Interested parties should apply by submitting a cover letter and resume to hr@pta.org. All inquiries/submissions will be kept confidential. The position is open until filled, with a best consideration date of August 16, 2020.
About National PTA
National PTA® comprises millions of families, students, teachers, administrators, and business and community leaders devoted to the educational success of children and the promotion of parent involvement in schools.
PTA is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit association that prides itself on being a powerful voice for all children, a relevant resource for families and communities, and a strong advocate for public education. Membership in PTA is open to anyone who wants to be involved and make a difference for the education, health, and welfare of children and youth.
