Director, Government Affairs & Development

Job purpose

The mission of the Tunnel to Towers Foundation is to honor the sacrifice of firefighter Stephen Siller who laid down his life to save others on September 11, 2001. We also honor our military and first responders who continue to make the supreme sacrifice of life and limb for our country. The Tunnel to Towers Foundation is committed to eradicating homelessness amongst our veterans.

The Director of Government Affairs & Development role represents the Foundation in public and governmental settings, building strong relationships with federal, state, and local officials, community leaders, and partner organizations. This position leads and supports government affairs efforts nationwide, supervises state and local teams, tracks relevant legislation, and collaborates closely with internal departments to ensure regulatory compliance, successful Veterans Village openings, and impactful events. The role also supports fundraising efforts through government grants, donor engagement, and partnerships that advance the Foundation’s mission to serve veterans and their families.

Duties and responsibilities

• Serve as a representative of the Foundation at external events, public forums, and speaking engagements to strengthen community engagement, government relations, and strategic partnerships.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with federal, state, and local elected officials, as well as key community leaders, to enhance collaboration, support, and long-term community ties.
• Coordinate with the Senior Director to manage federal, state, and local government affairs nationwide, with a focus on regions with existing Homeless Veteran Program presence and targeted expansion areas.
• Supervise the state and local government affairs team in collaboration with the Director of State and Local Government Affairs, ensuring deadlines are met, responsibilities are effectively delegated, and performance goals are achieved.
• Provide guidance, support, feedback, and task delegation to the Coordinator of Government Affairs to ensure operational efficiency and professional development.
• Assist with property consideration by evaluating potential locations, zoning requirements, and regulatory considerations for future Veterans Villages.
• Lead training and development of new team members within the government affairs function.
• Collaborate closely with internal teams—particularly Development and the Homeless Veteran Program to, support timely openings of Veterans Villages nationwide, and identify fundraising opportunities within the DC market.
• Lead the government affairs component of internal events, including Homeless Veteran Programs’ groundbreakings, grand openings, and home dedication ceremonies, working closely with the Events team to ensure seamless execution.
• Track, monitor, and analyze federal, state, and local legislation relevant to the Foundation’s mission and operations.
• Advance the Foundation’s mission through outreach initiatives and inquiry responses, building partnerships with state and local nonprofit organizations that support veterans and their families.
• Support efforts to secure financial resources for the Foundation, including congressional grant funding and other government-based opportunities.
• Assist the Development team in cultivating donor relationships, securing donations, and strengthening overall fundraising efforts.

Qualifications

• Minimum of a Bachelor’s degree or work experience equivalent with at least 3-5 years of relationship management, government affairs, or nonprofit advocacy.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal abilities with the ability to build and maintain relationships with high-level stakeholders.
• Excellent and proven written and verbal communication skills.
• Proven ability to manage multiple projects and work under deadlines.
• Knowledge of government affairs, policy, and legislative processes is a plus.
• Ability to multitask multiple projects and supervise personnel.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office/ Google Suite (or equivalent).
• Pre-employment screening, including a background check, is required.

**The Tunnel to Towers Organization is a 501c3 charitable organization and does not engage in lobbying. This is not a lobbying position.**

This position is located in the DC area.

Working conditions

Special working conditions may include changes in days worked, shift hours, and/or working conditions (outdoors or at other locations) when participating in and assisting with special events as needed. Willingness to travel up to 50% of the time.