State Government Affairs Strategist for Tech Policy

Cisco Systems, Inc.; Washington (District of Columbia); On-site; USD 161,000 - 205,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, dental, vision insurance

401(k) with Cisco matching

Paid parental leave

Disability coverage

Life insurance

Volunteer time off

Job summary

Cisco Systems, Inc. is seeking a U.S. State Government Affairs Manager based in Washington, DC.

You will shape state policy engagements, lead strategic government affairs efforts, and collaborate with internal teams to advance Cisco’s public policy goals for a more inclusive technology future. The role emphasizes advising senior leaders, monitoring policy developments, building government relationships, and communicating Cisco’s policy positions on AI, cybersecurity, and broadband access.

Qualifications

• 7+ years of political and public policy experience in government, corporate government affairs, public affairs, trade associations, or public policy institutions.
• Strong understanding of legislative and regulatory processes related to technology policy and familiarity with public policy issues affecting the technology industry.
• Excellent political judgment and relationship-building skills.
• Strong communication, writing, collaboration, and advocacy abilities with a demonstrated ability to build consensus across internal teams in pursuit of shared objectives.
• Ability to travel throughout the U.S. and, on occasion, internationally.

Responsibilities

• Advising and preparing senior leaders for engagements with state and local officials, ensuring alignment with Cisco’s business objectives and overall strategy.
• Monitoring, analyzing, and reporting on relevant state legislative, regulatory, and budget developments.
• Building trusted relationships with legislators, legislative staff, governors’ offices, and state agencies to strengthen Cisco’s public sector leadership.
• Educating policymakers on Cisco’s technology and its role in AI, cybersecurity, broadband access, economic development, and public safety.
• Advancing policy priorities aligned with purpose-driven initiatives.
• Representing Cisco in state-level hearings, meetings, and industry coalitions.
• Drafting and presenting testimony, position papers, and advocacy materials.

Skills

Public policy

Policy analysis

Stakeholder engagement

Communication & advocacy

Travel readiness

Job description

Cisco Systems, Inc. is seeking a U.S. State Government Affairs Manager based in Washington, DC.

You will shape state policy engagements, lead strategic government affairs efforts, and collaborate with internal teams to advance Cisco’s public policy goals for a more inclusive technology future. The role emphasizes advising senior leaders, monitoring policy developments, building government relationships, and communicating Cisco’s policy positions on AI, cybersecurity, and broadband access.