Manager – Government Relations

This is a fully remote position, open to applicants in United States.

📋 Description

• Lead the Advocacy Community of Practice within Main Street America’s national network.

• Collaborate with internal teams and partners on state-level advocacy initiatives.

• Create the biannual policy agenda from inception to implementation.

• Act as the primary lead and liaison in coalitions that Main Street America both leads and participates in.

• Enhance strategies for national policy and federal appropriations that impact Main Street activities.

• Oversee the budget and personnel for the Government Relations team.

• Contribute to the wider strategic goals of the organization.

• Serve as the main point of contact for federal government staff on behalf of Main Street America.

• Coordinate state-level policy and government relations efforts alongside the Coordinating Programs team.

• Work collaboratively across Communications, Research, Coordinating Programs, Membership, Conference, and Education teams.

• Initially report to the CEO, transitioning to report to the VP of Public Affairs in the future.

⛳️ Requirements

• 3-5 years of experience in leading government relations or policy initiatives in areas such as economic development, historic preservation, urban planning, transportation, placemaking, tax credits, or housing.

• 3-5 years of experience in managing people.

• 2-3 years of experience in planning and managing a budget in collaboration with the Finance Team.

• Adaptable; capable of pivoting and adjusting strategies based on political changes and shifts.

• Strong attentive listening skills; capable of understanding both surface and subtext communication.

• Excellent facilitator experienced in both remote and in-person environments, with a focus on inclusion.

• Possess discernment, discretion, and the ability to manage sensitive information effectively.

• Highly organized with strong time management skills.

• Open-minded yet grounded in integrity; able to think broadly about policy while prioritizing organizational and network objectives over personal beliefs.

• Strong communicator; proficient in translating complex policy issues for practitioners.

• Contextual thinker with a strategic approach.

• Proven ability to build trust and gain buy-in from diverse groups within a coalition or work environment.

• Demonstrated active leadership at all levels within a developing Government Relations team.

• Comfortable and experienced in managing work relationships remotely.

• Experienced with significant business travel, approximately 1-4 trips per month.

• Commitment to the values of Main Street America.

• Practical experience in operationalizing equity and inclusion.

• Nice to have: experience reporting directly to a CEO.

• Nice to have: experience overseeing a lobbyist.

• Nice to have: experience in a Main Street district or coordinating program.

🏝️ Benefits

• Comprehensive health insurance (medical, dental, and vision).

• Generous paid time off, including over 25 holidays each year.

• Flexible 35-hour workweek.

• "Rejuvenation Weeks" dedicated for focus and planning.

• Professional development funding and training opportunities.

• Retirement plan contributions.

• Pre-tax 403(b) plan option.

• Collaborative and supportive work environment that prioritizes balance, growth, and inclusivity.