Senior Manager of Public Policy & Government Affairs

Location: Washington, DC (Hybrid)

Salary Range: $85,000 – $95,000

About Us: The Association for Enterprise Opportunity (AEO) is the leading voice of innovation and opportunity in microbusiness and small business development in the United States. We strive to create economic opportunities for underserved entrepreneurs and communities by providing them with the resources, advocacy, and support they need to succeed.

Position Overview: We are seeking a dynamic and experienced Senior Manager of Government Affairs to join our team. This role is critical in shaping and advancing AEO’s policy and advocacy efforts at the federal, state, and local levels. The ideal candidate will have a deep understanding of legislative processes, a passion for small business and economic development, and a proven track record of successful advocacy. This position reports to the Senior Director of Marketing, Communications, and Strategic Engagement.

Key Responsibilities:

Advocacy Strategy: Develop and implement AEO’s government affairs strategy to influence public policy in support of small and microbusinesses. Focus on federal and regional engagement efforts.

Legislative Monitoring: Track, analyze, and report on relevant legislation and regulatory issues that impact AEO’s mission and stakeholders.

Stakeholder Engagement: Build and maintain strong relationships with key policymakers, government agencies, industry associations, and other stakeholders.

Coalition Building: Lead and participate in coalitions and partnerships to advance AEO’s policy priorities.

Policy Development: Draft policy briefs, position papers, testimony, and other advocacy materials.

Communication: Serve as AEO’s representative and spokesperson on government affairs matters, including media engagements, public speaking, and writing for publication.

Advisory Role: Advise AEO’s leadership team on emerging policy issues and provide strategic guidance on advocacy initiatives.

Event Planning: Plan summits, webinars, and policy forums

Fundraising and Development: Support fundraising and funder relations for programs, initiatives, policy, positions and forums.

Qualifications:

Bachelor’s degree in Political Science, Public Policy, Law, or a related field. A Master’s degree or JD is preferred.

Minimum of 7-10 years of experience in government affairs, public policy, or a related field.

Proven success in advancing policy initiatives and influencing legislation.

Strong understanding of the legislative and regulatory processes at federal, state, and local levels.

Exceptional written and verbal communication skills.

Ability to work collaboratively with internal and external stakeholders.

Passion for economic development and supporting underserved communities.

Ability to travel as needed.

Benefits:

Competitive salary within the range of $85,000 – $95,000.

Comprehensive benefits package including health, dental, and vision insurance.

Retirement savings plan with employer match.

Generous paid time off and holiday schedule.

Professional development opportunities.

How to Apply: Interested candidates should submit a resume, cover letter, and legislative writing sample to Jackie Hazan, [email protected]. Please include “Senior Manager of Government Affairs Application” in the subject line.

AEO is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.