Managing Director, Public Affairs

$190,000 - $225,500/Yr

American Institutes For Research - Arlington, VA

Full-time - Senior

Hybrid - Arlington, VA

Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services

About the position

The Managing Director of Public Affairs at AIR is a senior leadership role focused on advancing the organization's strategic interests in education, health, and workforce development. This position involves representing AIR as an evidence broker, leading a team of public affairs staff, and developing strategies to influence decision-makers and stakeholders. The role requires a deep understanding of federal policies and trends, as well as the ability to communicate evidence-based insights to inform public policy decisions.

Responsibilities

• Design AIR's public affairs strategy and model the behavior needed to drive and define the space.
• Implement a comprehensive public affairs strategy to inform evidence-based decision-making across key focus areas.
• Maintain awareness of policy issues and developments to ensure knowledge transfer to senior staff.
• Position AIR to protect existing business and pursue new opportunities with key stakeholders.
• Align and integrate work into strategic plans to support AIR's mission.
• Develop strategies to engage influencers surrounding policymakers and decision-makers.
• Lead strategic communications efforts to build partnerships and enhance AIR's visibility.
• Develop policy briefs, statements, and public comments to advance conversations across various sectors.
• Represent AIR with external groups and identify opportunities for policy engagement.
• Advise researchers on sharing findings with policymakers for maximum impact.

Requirements

• Bachelor's or master's degree with 10-15 years of progressive professional experience.
• At least 5 years in a managerial position within the public sector, private sector, nonprofit, or government.
• Background in public policy with experience in government outreach and lobbying.
• Deep understanding of policy processes and a network of influencers in government.
• Familiarity with nonprofit organizations and experience in research and evaluation.

Nice-to-haves

• Global policy experience.
• Experience working within research, evaluation, and technical assistance.

Benefits

• Competitive salary range of $190,000 to $225,500.
• Comprehensive health insurance coverage.
• Retirement savings plan options.
• Flexible work environment with hybrid options.