SMD, Head of Government Relations & Public Policy

The SMD, Head of Government Relations & Public Policy will lead the organization's strategic government relations function (international, federal, and state) to shape policy outcomes, establish and maintain key relationships with government stakeholders, and position the organization effectively within the regulatory landscape. Develops and implements comprehensive strategies to advance organizational interests with legislative bodies, regulatory agencies, and other governmental entities.

Key Responsibilities and Duties

• Develops and executes comprehensive government relations strategies aligned with the organization's business objectives and long-term goals.

• Prepares and manages the government relations department budget.

• Builds and maintains strategic relationships with elected officials, regulatory agencies, industry associations, and key policy stakeholders.

• Monitors legislative and regulatory developments, assesses potential impacts, and develops proactive response strategies.

• Leads advocacy efforts on priority issues, including developing position papers, testimony, and other advocacy materials.

• Oversees the organization's political action committee activities and compliance with campaign finance regulations.

• Manages state, federal, and international government relations team members, including coaching, mentoring, and professional development.

• Collaborates with cross-functional teams to ensure alignment between government relations initiatives and broader organizational priorities.

• Serves as a key spokesperson on government and policy matters, representing the organization at legislative hearings, regulatory proceedings, and industry events, along with other company leaders.

• Ensures organizational compliance with lobbying disclosure requirements and other relevant regulations.

Educational Requirements

• University (Degree) Preferred

Work Experience

• 10+ Years Required

Physical Requirements

• Physical Requirements: Sedentary Work

Career Level
13PL

Other Qualifications and Work Experience

•    A bachelor's degree in political science, public policy, government relations, communications, or a related field strongly preferred. A master's degree is a plus.
•    Minimum of 10 years of experience in government affairs, lobbying, or a related role, with a strong understanding of the legislative and regulatory process.
•    In-depth knowledge of relevant policy issues and a demonstrated ability to analyze and communicate complex policy matters.
•    Proven ability to establish and maintain effective relationships with government officials, policymakers, and industry stakeholders.
•    Strong strategic thinking and problem-solving skills, with the ability to develop and execute effective government affairs strategies.
•    Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to clearly and persuasively communicate the organization's positions to different audiences.

•     A deep understanding of the political landscape and the federal government processes and in-depth knowledge of how laws and regulations are made and implemented. 
•    The ability to develop long-term strategies for influencing policy and achieving organizational objectives, and monitor, analyze, and interpret complex legislative and regulatory information. 
•    Demonstrated ability to build and lead high-performing, inclusive teams, fostering cross-departmental collaboration and cultivating a culture of accountability and continuous improvement.

Related Skills

Adaptability, Communication, Consultative Communication, Influence, Legal Advocacy, Legal Expertise/Advisory, Legal Writing, Lobbying/Legislation, Market/Industry Dynamics, Negotiation, Public Policy, Relationship Management, Stakeholder Engagement, Story Telling

Anticipated Posting End Date:

2025-10-17

Actual base salary may vary based upon, but not limited to, relevant experience, time in role, base salary of internal peers, prior performance, business sector, and geographic location.  In addition to base salary, the competitive compensation package may include, depending on the role, participation in an incentive program linked to performance (for example, annual discretionary incentive programs, non-annual sales incentive plans, or other non-annual incentive plans). 

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Company Overview

Every worker deserves a secure retirement. For more than 100 years,