Director of Political Affairs

I. Purpose 

This position is responsible for managing the Association’s Political Action Committee (ASHA-PAC), and coordinating all political fundraising activities for the purpose of advancing the Association’s Public Policy Agenda on behalf of the professions of audiology and speech-language pathology.

II. Key Responsibilities 

1. Manages all aspects of ASHA-PAC, including:  a) developing fundraising strategies; b) issuing and tracking disbursements; c) recording all transactions; d) preparing financial and activity reports, and; e) ensuring full compliance with all relevant laws and regulations.  Further manages all lobbying disclosure reports on behalf of the Government Affairs and Public Policy cluster. 
2. Assesses credibility and viability of candidates for federal office, including incumbents, who seek the support of ASHA-PAC.
3. Organizes and attends political events on behalf of ASHA-PAC.
4. Collaborates on identifying, developing, executing, and evaluating coordinated advocacy strategies designed to advance ASHA’s Public Policy Agenda.
5. Engages in federal strategic lobbying activities as needed.
6. Collaborates on strategic communications, messaging, and grassroots materials that are designed to advance ASHA’s Public Policy Agenda.  Develops articles and other products for online and print communications.
7. Implement and executes member-facing political events and receptions
8. Produces monthly newsletter highlighting relevant political and policy news for PAC contributors
9. Serves as ex-officio to the ASHA-PAC Board.

IV. Autonomy & Decision Making: 

The Director of Political Affairs is a member of the Federal and Political Affairs Team within the Government Affairs and Public Policy Cluster.  For the purposes of advancing the priorities within ASHA’s Public Policy Agenda, the Director has latitude to determine approaches and methodologies that ensure success in carrying out the position’s major duties, as well as the programs and procedures of the Cluster and Team. The Director consults with the Senior Director of Federal and Political Affairs and is guided by ASHA’s policies and priorities established by the Board of Directors and Facilitating Team as needed.

V. Qualifications & Skills

Qualifications: 

a. Knowledge typically acquired through:

• Bachelor’s degree in political science, government, public policy or a related field, such as business or finance; an advanced degree is preferred
• 5 years of experience in political fundraising, campaign finance or political action committee management; or experience at a nonprofit association
• Demonstrated ability in managing political fundraising activities, and successfully meeting fundraising goals
• Demonstrated knowledge of all compliance and filing laws and regulations 
• Demonstrated ability in strategic lobbying activities
• Demonstrated ability to establish and maintain strategic relationships with lawmakers, policymakers and allied stakeholders
• Demonstrated understanding of the federal legislative process
• Familiarity with health care and education policies that impact the Association
• Understanding of communications sciences and disorders is desirable

Skills 

• Strong collaborative and facilitative leadership skills.
• Excellent interpersonal skills.
• Demonstrated ability to prioritize, organize, and execute multiple tasks simultaneously.
• Demonstrated problem-solving skills and a creative approach to work.
• Ability to work independently and effectively under pressure with tight deadlines.
• Demonstrated ability to achieve consensus when opposing viewpoints are presented.

VI. Universal Expectations of ASHA Staff

At ASHA, we believe in working together to make well-informed decisions that will advance the association and the discipline of human communication sciences and disorders; teamwork is vital to achieving our mission, vision, and maximizing impact. As committed stewards of the organization, we care deeply about our professions, members, and staff, and building a strong and welcoming community. We strive to ensure that everyone's voice is heard and valued. We are dedicated to helping each other grow and innovate by encouraging open communication and continual learning. Our focus is on delivering excellent service  and value to members, advancing equity, and promoting diversity, inclusion, and the power of science and research. 

VII. Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO)

ASHA is an equal opportunity employer.  As such, it is ASHA’s policy to provide equal opportunity to all qualified applicants and employees without regard for race, sex (including pregnancy and gender identity), national origin, religion, marital status, disability, veteran status, age, sexual orientation or LGBT status, genetic information, citizenship, or any other factor protected by applicable federal, state, or local laws and ASHA's Bylaws. This policy applies to recruiting, hiring, transfer, promotion, compensation and benefits, upward mobility, training and development, access to facilities, termination, and other personnel actions. 

VIII. Disclaimer

This job description reflects the primary responsibilities of the job but is not a detailed description of all duties which may be required of someone in the position. All ASHA staff are expected to take on additional responsibilities from time to time and to help their colleagues.