Chief Government Affairs & Public Policy Lead

Fmi; Arlington (VA); Hybrid; USD 190,000 - 250,000; Full time

Job summary

FMI (Food Marketing Institute) in Arlington, VA seeks a high‑level leader to direct government relations and political affairs. You will shape advocacy priorities, build executive relationships, and steer campaigns influencing federal and state policy for the food retail industry.

The role requires 10–15 years of government affairs experience, strong budgeting and leadership skills, and a track record of effective advocacy and public speaking.

Qualifications

• 10–15 years of government affairs experience with significant lobbying.
• College degree in government affairs or related field. Advanced degree preferred.
• At least 15 years prior management experience including budget and staff management.
• Extensive knowledge of the political process and regulatory initiatives across federal/state levels.
• Experience using political processes to engage strategically with stakeholders, campaign experience.
• Budget management experience with ability to stay within budget.
• Computer literacy with website/digital efforts, databases, and portals.
• Excellent communication skills including public speaking and negotiations.

Responsibilities

• Plan and implement lobbying activities to influence legislative and regulatory actions.
• Build and maintain coalitions of associations and manage FMI contacts with Senators and Representatives.
• Draft position papers, testimony, letters, and other materials communicating FMI's positions.
• Develop and monitor budgets related to lobbying efforts and events.
• Represent FMI to internal and external audiences and manage division-wide strategies.
• Draft communications for policy issues and facilitate committee meetings and stakeholder engagement.
• Ensure compliance with campaign and reporting requirements for FoodPAC and LEAD.

Skills

Lobbying & advocacy

Policy analysis

Strategic planning

Public speaking

Negotiation & influencing

Team leadership

Budget management

Interpersonal skills

Education

Bachelor's degree in government affairs or related field

Advanced degree preferred

Job description

FMI (Food Marketing Institute) in Arlington, VA seeks a high‑level leader to direct government relations and political affairs. You will shape advocacy priorities, build executive relationships, and steer campaigns influencing federal and state policy for the food retail industry.

The role requires 10–15 years of government affairs experience, strong budgeting and leadership skills, and a track record of effective advocacy and public speaking.