Associate Director, Public Affairs

We have an immediate opportunity for an experienced international public affairs professional with strong expertise in policy analysis and advocacy, issues management, stakeholder engagement, client relationship development and project management. You will lead high-stakes client projects, manage key business relationships, develop and secure new client accounts, and supervise and mentor team members. 

You will be based in Washington, D.C. and bring a mixture of global perspectives and inside-the-beltway experience and networks to your work. You are self-directed, proactive and motivated to create value for APCO, your colleagues, and your clients every day. You are adept at engaging your network and resources to analyze complex situations; developing and delivering compelling solutions; responding with agility to fast-moving situations; identifying engagement opportunities on relevant issues; and leveraging the full spectrum of corporate affairs and communication channels and tactics.  

You have experience leading project teams and managing work streams while also serving in a key role on major projects.  

You are inclusive and empathetic and have a desire to learn and grow – both across industries and the broad corporate affairs field, including in geopolitical advisory, issues advocacy, grassroots campaigns, crisis management, and stakeholder communications. You know how to work with executive-level clients and their teams, and have a positive, go-getter attitude that wins the confidence of clients, inspires teams and delivers results.   

Responsibilities: 

• Lead a wide range of advisory, research, communication, and stakeholder engagement work for high-profile, globally recognized clients. 

• Manage, nurture, and grow client relationships, overseeing client projects, supervising project teams, allocating resources, and effectively delegating tasks. 

• Provide consistently high levels of client service through proactive account management, serving as a key contact to maintain and grow client relationships. 

• Implement comprehensive public affairs, communications, and policy advocacy strategies to address client issues and support their growth objectives. 

• Gather intelligence and develop insights on issues relevant to existing and prospective clients to enhance relationships and support business growth.