Director of Government Affairs

Position Summary: The Director of Government Affairs helps plan and execute advocacy strategies and build political relationships for NAFO and NAFO members. The Director works closely with the Vice President for Policy and Government Affairs, other NAFO colleagues, and the NAFO membership as part of an integrated policy and advocacy team. The Director should be passionate about advancing policy solutions benefitting the forestry sector, serving as a trusted partner to policymakers and NAFO members, and delivering results.

Responsibilities:

• Help develop and execute advocacy strategies to advance policy priorities.
• Engage policymakers in Congress and the administration directly, and in coordination with NAFO members, sector colleagues, and peer organizations.
• Prepare issue briefs, legislative text, hearing materials, and other advocacy materials.
• Build and leverage bipartisan relationships with policymakers, sector partners, and peer organizations.
• Research and analyze legislative, regulatory, and market data to develop advocacy materials that translate into persuasive, actionable advocacy.
• Organize and support the advocacy and political action activities of NAFO members in coordination with the Vice President for Policy and Government Affairs
• Manage contractors to assist in political and policy advocacy strategy development and execution.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree. Advanced degree preferred.
• Minimum 5 years of relevant experience with Congress and/or federal agencies. Experience with advocacy, natural resources, and environmental issues preferred.
• Ability to manage multiple projects and tasks in a dynamic work environment.
• Able to identify solutions and build consensus across ideological and political divides.
• Exceptional organization skills, attention to detail, and ability to meet deadlines.
• Strong relationship building and networking skills.
• Strong analytical, writing, and public speaking skills.
• Demonstrated self-determination, discipline, and dependability, with a proven ability to lead advocacy campaigns and drive results while operating as part of a team.
• Must be located in greater DC area as position is based out of our DC office.

Compensation & Benefits: The salary for this position is $140K exclusive of performance-based compensation and benefits with a range commensurate with experience. All full-time, exempt NAFO employees are eligible for a generous benefits package including medical, dental, and vision insurance, matching 401(k), and PTO.  

About NAFO: The National Alliance of Forest Owners (NAFO) is a national advocacy organization focused on advancing federal policies that support the long-term economic and environmental benefits of large, sustainably managed, privately-owned forests. NAFO members actively manage 44 million acres of private working forests to provide forest products and environmental benefits.