Government Relations and Public Engagement Manager

Howard Hughes Medical Institute (HHMI)
United States, Maryland, Chevy Chase
4000 Jones Bridge Road (Show on map)
Feb 25, 2025
Current HHMI Employees, click here to apply via your Workday account. HHMI is focused on supporting and moving science forward in a variety of different ways ranging from conducting basic biomedical research, empowering educators, inspiring students, developing the next generation of scientists - even stretching into film and media production. Our Headquarters is in the greater Washington, DC metro area and is home to over 300 employees with expertise in investments, communications, digital production, biomedical sciences, and everything in between. The work housed here supports and augments the groundbreaking research conducted in HHMI labs across the nation. As HHMI scientists continue to push boundaries in laboratories and classrooms, you can be sure that your contributions while working here are making a difference. Summary: The Government Relations and Public Engagement Manager at HHMI will play a crucial role in monitoring, analyzing, and responding to federal government policies, executive orders, and legislative actions that impact HHMI's mission. This position involves developing strategies for engaging with policymakers, government officials, and advocacy groups, as well as creating media engagement plans for HHMI leadership. What we provide: A role that is uniquely positioned to have an impact across the scientific landscape and organization because of its ability to provide outstanding solutions and support within the federal government space. An opportunity to evolve and grow in this new role. An organization that believes in continuous learning and cultivates an environment where colleagues help each other. A competitive compensation package that includes up to $10,000 in educational reimbursement annually and a significant professional development budget. What you'll do: Government Relations: Monitor and analyze federal policies and legislation. Develop and maintain relationships with policymakers and advocacy groups. Provide strategic advice on navigating political and regulatory environments. Draft policy briefs, reports, and position statements. Leadership Engagement Strategy: Develop media engagement strategies for HHMI leadership. Identify key external stakeholders for engagement. Generate creative ideas for reaching new audiences. Internal Collaboration and Guidance: Work closely with leadership, program teams, and legal counsel. Drive cross-functional initiatives to adapt to new regulations. Conduct workshops and training sessions on government policies and media best practices. Advocacy and Thought Leadership: Represent HHMI at conferences and meetings. Identify partnership opportunities to amplify HHMI's influence. What you bring: Bachelor's degree Five to seven years of experience in government, political strategy, media relations, or a related field. Direct experience working within government is strongly preferred. Experience navigating both political and media environments. Deep understanding of government processes, policymaking, and media dynamics. Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to convey sophisticated issues to diverse audiences. Strong relationship-building abilities with partners across sectors. Passionate about advancing nonprofit goals. Highly organized and meticulous. Proactive problem-solving skills. Application Instructions: During the application process, please submit a cover letter stating how your qualifications and experience match the requirements and how your experience will support HHMI in its mission. Please also include a portfolio of your work. Physical Requirements: Remaining in a normal seated or standing position for extended periods of time; reaching and grasping by extending hand(s) or arm(s); dexterity to manipulate objects with fingers, for example using a keyboard; communication skills using the spoken word; ability to see and hear within normal parameters; ability to move about workspace. The position requires mobility, including the ability to move materials weighing up to several pounds (such as a laptop computer or tablet). Persons with disabilities may be able to perform the duties of this position with reasonable accommodation. Requests for reasonable accommodation will be evaluated on an individual basis. Please Note: This job description sets forth the job's principal duties, responsibilities, and requirements; it should not be construed as an exhaustive statement, however. Unless they begin with the word "may," the Essential Duties and Responsibilities described above are "essential functions" of the job, as defined by the Americans with Disabilities Act. #LI-EG1 Compensation Range $97,829.60 (minimum) - $122,287.00 (midpoint) - $158,973.10 (maximum) Pay Type: Annual HHMI's salary structure is developed based on relevant job market data. HHMI considers a candidate's education, previous experiences, knowledge, skills and abilities, as well as internal consistency when making job offers. Typically, a new hire for this position in this location is compensated between the minimum and the midpoint of the salary range. Compensation and Benefits Our employees are compensated from a total rewards perspective in many ways for their contributions to our mission, including competitive pay, exceptional health benefits, retirement plans, time off, and a range of recognition and wellness programs. Visit our Benefits at HHMI site to learn more. HHMI is an Equal Opportunity Employer