Senior Federal Policy & Advocacy Leader

swa; Washington (District of Columbia); On-site; USD 180,000 - 240,000; Full time

Job summary

Southwest Airlines seeks a Senior Federal Affairs Director to lead federal policy advocacy before Congress and regulatory agencies. You will shape lobbying strategies, advise senior executives, and nurture critical relationships with policymakers while aligning advocacy with business priorities.

The role requires Washington, D.C. work, potential evening hours, and travel for trainings and meetings. U.S. citizenship or work authorization is required, with no sponsorship available.

Qualifications

• Substantive legislative or policy experience with federal government, Congress or agencies affecting aviation/transportation.
• Ability to navigate federal agencies and briefing documents.
• Experience drafting legislative or regulatory comments.

Responsibilities

• Build direct relationships with Members of Congress and staff.
• Lead federal advocacy and draft memos, briefings, talking points, and draft legislation.
• Coordinate external engagement plans with senior leadership.
• Manage coalitions to support Southwest advocacy initiatives.
• Oversee cross-team plans and external resources for advocacy efforts.
• Draft reports, briefings, letters, and testimony.
• Support CEO office for trips to D.C. and official visits.

Skills

Stakeholder management

Public policy

Lobbying strategy

Policy analysis

Communication skills

Education

Bachelor’s Degree

Job description

Southwest Airlines seeks a Senior Federal Affairs Director to lead federal policy advocacy before Congress and regulatory agencies. You will shape lobbying strategies, advise senior executives, and nurture critical relationships with policymakers while aligning advocacy with business priorities.

The role requires Washington, D.C. work, potential evening hours, and travel for trainings and meetings. U.S. citizenship or work authorization is required, with no sponsorship available.