Summary

The Senior Director of Federal Relations & Policy holds primary responsibility for managing, coordinating, and implementing the Foundation’s federal-level policy agenda, particularly issues related to access to care and disability rights. This role requires in-depth knowledge of these issues and the federal legislative and administrative process, as well as the ability to analyze and provide strategic advice on complex legislation and regulations. The Senior Director is the Foundation’s key representative on Capitol Hill and with federal agencies, keenly relaying the interests of people with the epilepsies and their families. This position holds leadership positions in national disability and patient coalitions working on mutual goals and is a liaison and advisor to the Foundation’s chapter and affiliate network on federal policy. This position reports to the Vice President of Government Relations & Advocacy.

Essential Duties And Responsibilities

Directs strategy on federal-level policy priorities, particularly issues related to access to care and treatments and disability rights.
In-depth policy analysis of complex federal legislation and regulations.
Develops strong relationships with members of Congress, congressional staff and relevant federal agencies in order to keenly represent the needs of people with the epilepsies and their families and advance the Foundation’s policy priorities.
Drafts federal-level regulatory comments, letters, testimony and position statements, with support from the Advocacy Coordinator.
Holds leadership roles in national disability and patient advocacy coalitions, collaborating on mutual policy goals.
Advises the Foundation’s chapter and affiliate network on federal-level policy priorities.

Additional Duties And Responsibilities

Maintains up-to-date understanding of activities and priorities of relevant federal legislative offices, committees, and agencies.
Coordinates with the Senior Manager managing state policy to ensure federal- and state-policy positions are aligned.
Reviews federal-related newsletter updates, action alerts and media placements.
Supports planning of and resource development for the Foundation’s Teens Speak Up! and Public Policy Institute annual advocacy conference and Capitol Hill Day as needed.

Education Requirements

Master's degree in public policy, health policy, government, or political science and/or law degree required (or equivalent relevant work experience, for example, each year of work experience may be substituted for each year of education required). Bachelor’s degree required.

Experience Requirements

At least 9 years professional experience in health or disability policy and/or legislative advocacy; federal legislative office and/or non-profit experience preferred.
Extensive knowledge of and experience with federal-level legislative, budget, and administrative processes.

Other Specific Knowledge, Skills, Abilities, Certifications, Licenses

Understanding of, or desire to learn about, epilepsy and its impact on individuals and families.
In-depth knowledge of health and disability policy issues.
Strategic vision for how to advance federal-level policy priorities.
Superb policy analysis and writing skills.
Ability to be a primary Foundation representative and spokesperson, effectively articulating the needs of people with the epilepsies and the Foundation’s related policy positions.
Excellent interpersonal and relationship-building skills to facilitate work with coalitions, government offices and the Foundation’s network.
Flexibility and adaptability skills to manage evolving political and policy landscape.
High level of organization and ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines at once, including rapid response to legislative offices, agencies, coalition and partners, and chapters/affiliates.
Demonstrated ability to be a strong team player, as well as to take initiative and work independently.

Supervisory Responsibilities

This position has no supervisory responsibilities/no direct reports.

MANAGES

TRAVEL, WORK ENVIRONMENT, AND PHYSICAL DEMANDS

This is a full-time position, working 35 hours per week, generally Monday-Friday, 9AM-5PM. The employee is expected to be flexible, as needed.
This position is eligible for telework from an approved alternative worksite. The Foundation has some office space in Washington, D.C. where this position can work.
This position will be required to attend in-person congressional hearings and meetings, as well as in-person coalition meetings in Washington, D.C.
This position is required to participate in all team and staff meetings.
Travel is minimal (1-3 trips/year).

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Epilepsy Foundation

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Sr. Director, Federal Relations & Policy