Position: Director, Federal Affairs

Reports to: Vice President, Head of Federal Affairs

Location: Washington, D.C.

American Beverage, the trade association representing America’s leading non-alcoholic beverage companies, is seeking a Director, Federal Affairs.

Position Summary: Member of the federal government relations team. Interacts with all Association staff, Government Affairs and Public Affairs representatives, Association member companies’ representatives and State Association Officials as needed.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities: To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform the following duties; other duties may be assigned.

• Implements federal legislative and regulatory strategy.
• Represents the Association on legislative matters with federal officials.
• Registered lobbyist – maintains, builds relationships with key hill, administration staff. Also maintains, builds relationships with key federal, political organizations.
• Works with Vice President, Head of Federal Affairs, companies and contract lobbyists to enact relationship-building strategy and strategies to prevent/promote bills of interest to the industry.
• Maintains close ties with PAC/Government affairs manager to develop PAC growth strategy.
• Serves as liaison to member companies and a conduit for information between Association members, legislators, the Executive branch, federal agencies, members, consultants, industry government affairs representatives and others impacting the legislative process.
• Supports coalition building efforts with other organizations, companies, consumer groups and public policy advocates to maximize the Association’s position in addressing issues of industry concern.
• Develops and delivers comprehensive analyses of basic policy issues, resource allocations and strategies.
• Supports the Association’s legislative Fly-In conference, including logistics related to securing speakers and assisting association members with appointments on Capitol Hill and development of materials supporting the Fly-In.
• Assists with grassroots efforts, particularly those related to in-district Congressional activities such as plant tours.
• Provides any and all lobbying support for the Federal Affairs objectives.
• Participates in coalitions.
• Participates in developing Federal Affairs and Association strategy.

Competencies: To perform the job successfully, an individual should demonstrate the following:

Adaptability – Projects a positive demeanor regardless of changes in working conditions. Shows the ability to manage multiple conflicting priorities without loss of composure.

Communications – Exhibits good listening and comprehension. Can express ideas and thoughts in written form and verbally. Keeps others adequately informed. Selects and uses appropriate communication methods.

Dependability – Commits to doing the best job possible. Follows instructions. Meets attendance and punctuality guidelines. Takes responsibility for own actions.

Planning & Organization – Integrates changes smoothly. Prioritizes and plans work activities. Sets goals and objectives. Uses time efficiently.

Team-oriented – Works as a competent member of the team, willingly providing back-up support for co-workers when appropriate and actively supporting Government Affairs and overall ABA goals.

Use of Technology – Demonstrates required skills. Uses technology to increase productivity.

Qualifications: To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required.

Education/Experience – Bachelor's degree from four-year college or university; or five years related experience and/or training; or equivalent combination of education and experience.

Language Skills – Ability to read, analyze and interpret general business periodicals, professional journals, technical procedures, or governmental regulations. Ability to write reports, business correspondence and procedure manuals. Ability to effectively present information and respond to questions from groups of members, clients, customers, and the general public.

Organization skills – Strong organizational skills and ability to handle multiple projects at same time. Hard worker dedicated to the job, team, association and industry.

Strong and dedicated team player – Willing and able to contribute to special projects as needed. Ability to work well with others as part of a team.