VP, Government Affairs

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

📋 Description

• Develop and spearhead KinderCare's strategy for government affairs, public policy, and government funding to support the organization's business goals and growth initiatives.

• Establish KinderCare as a prominent advocate in early childhood education policy at federal, state, and local levels.

• Act as the main government affairs representative, fostering and maintaining relationships with policymakers, regulators, industry associations, coalition partners, and grant funders.

• Provide counsel to executive leadership on legislative, regulatory, political, and funding matters, translating external trends into business risks, opportunities, and strategic advice.

• Create and manage a robust government relations strategy to optimize federal, state, and local grant opportunities.

• Lead advocacy initiatives to influence policy outcomes, obtain funding opportunities, and advocate for a supportive regulatory framework.

• Track and relay emerging legislative and regulatory changes that impact operations, workforce, growth strategies, or public perception.

• Collaborate across the organization to align public policy priorities with business objectives and operational requirements.

• Direct and enhance the Government Affairs function, including internal state government relations and government programs and policy teams, as well as external lobbyists, consultants, trade associations, and advocacy partners.

⛳️ Requirements

• A Bachelor’s degree is mandatory.

• Over 15 years of progressive experience in government affairs, public policy, legislative affairs, or advocacy, with significant experience engaging with federal and state policymakers.

• Prior experience on Capitol Hill, within a government agency, trade association, or similar public policy setting is essential.

• In-depth knowledge of legislative, regulatory, and appropriations processes at both federal and state levels.

• Proven track record in developing and implementing advocacy, stakeholder engagement, and public policy strategies that yield measurable results.

• Demonstrated ability to cultivate relationships, influence decision-makers, and lead cross-functional initiatives in complex stakeholder environments.

• Strong understanding of government funding avenues, public-private partnerships, and grant programs; preference for experience with CCDBG, state subsidy systems, Pre-K funding, and Head Start collaborations.

• Exceptional strategic thinking, analytical capabilities, and executive-level communication skills.

• Willingness to travel up to 25% of the time.

• An advanced degree in Public Policy, Public Administration, Law, Business, or a related discipline is preferred.

• Experience in early childhood education, childcare, workforce development, education policy, or related sectors is preferred.

🏝️ Benefits

• Discounted childcare benefits available for employees' entire families.

• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision benefits for employees and their families, including coverage for pets.

• Employee assistance programs that promote mental health and personal development.

• Health and wellness initiatives.

• Paid time off.

• Discounts on work-related necessities, such as cell phones.