Federal Policy Director for Sustainability and Packaging

Consumer Brands Association; Arlington (VA); On-site; USD 140,000 - 200,000; Full time

Job summary

Consumer Brands Association is seeking a Director of Federal Affairs to drive the federal policy strategy on recycling infrastructure, labeling standards, and solid waste management. You will work with Congress, EPA, FTC, and other agencies to translate complex policy into actionable guidance for member companies.

The role requires deep knowledge of federal environmental and packaging policy, established Capitol Hill relationships, and the ability to craft strategic narratives for diverse

Qualifications

• BA/BS degree required.
• 7–9 years of direct experience with Congress, EPA, FTC or similar agencies on packaging, recycling, environmental or sustainability policy.
• Experience with Senate Commerce Committee or House Energy and Commerce Committee preferred.
• Minimum of 3 years in a related field such as environmental policy, packaging sustainability, recycling infrastructure, or waste management.
• Track record of results in government, association and/or political environments.
• Advocacy or public affairs campaign experience preferred; congressional office or federal/state agency experience a plus.

Responsibilities

• Lead development and execution of policy strategies related to recycling technology and infrastructure, labeling and waste management with federal agencies.
• Advocate for policy positions impacting consumer packaged goods with the U.S. government.
• Establish and maintain relationships with Congress, federal regulators, and allied trade associations.
• Develop proactive policy positions and response plans to regulatory shifts.
• Track federal implications of state packaging policies to inform federal strategy.
• Maintain knowledge of legislative/regulatory frameworks impacting recycling in consumer products.
• Collaborate with Regulatory Affairs, Legal, and Communications to shape policy positions and draft materials.
• Act as liaison to member companies for recycling issues and updates on legislation and advocacy actions.
• Engage with member businesses to build cross-industry support and cohesive policy approaches.
• Represent the association in industry coalitions and public forums to articulate policy positions.
• Monitor and assess federal legislation, regulations, and emerging policies (e.g., EPR, recycled content mandates).
• Provide research, data, and issue information to staff, members, and stakeholders.
• Collaborate with Federal Affairs team to advocate for all priority policies.

Skills

Policy development

Regulatory affairs

Stakeholder engagement

Public speaking

Congress liaison

Education

BA/BS degree

Tools

MS Office

Job description

Consumer Brands Association is seeking a Director of Federal Affairs to drive the federal policy strategy on recycling infrastructure, labeling standards, and solid waste management. You will work with Congress, EPA, FTC, and other agencies to translate complex policy into actionable guidance for member companies.

The role requires deep knowledge of federal environmental and packaging policy, established Capitol Hill relationships, and the ability to craft strategic narratives for diverse