Director, Federal Government Relations

Job Description

Job Description

Primary Purpose

Biotechnology Innovation Organization (BIO) is the world’s largest advocacy association representing member companies, state biotechnology groups, academic and research institutions, and related organizations across the United States and in 30+ countries. BIO members are involved in the research and development of innovative healthcare, agricultural, industrial and environmental biotechnology products. BIO also produces the BIO International Convention, the world’s largest gathering of the biotechnology industry, along with industry-leading investor and partnering meetings held around the world.

The Director of Federal Government Relations will oversee the strategy and execution to protect and promote the biotechnology ecosystem with a national security focus through direct lobbying and political engagement.

ESSENTIAL Responsibilities

• Actively engage within ahigh-paced cross-functional BIO team including policy, communications, external affairs, legal, and state government relations professionals to execute a cohesive multi-dimensional advocacy strategy.
• Develop and execute BIO’s congressional engagement plan to achieve organizational objectives through bipartisan, bicameral advocacy focused on Armed Services, Foreign Affairs Committees, and Select Committees on Intelligence and the CCP, among others.
• Work with BIO member companies to identify shared legislative priorities and advance engagement through the BIO Federal Government Relations Committees.
• Identify coalition partners to help advance BIO’s policy priorities and represent BIO through third-party engagement.
• Work with other members of the BIO Federal Government Relations team to develop and manage BIO’s political engagement strategy.

qualifications

EDUCATION and certifications

• Bachelor’s degree required. Advanced degree preferred.
• Security clearance preferred.

Experience

• At least 7-10 years of total experience working on the Hill and/or working in government relations or policy-related areas, preferably with the background as a legislative director or manager.

Knowledge, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES (KSA’s)

• Knowledge of the biotech or biopharmaceutical industry through a global landscape.

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including ability to craft policy briefs, reports, and talking points.
• Proven ability to thrive in fast-paced environments.
• High level of professionalism and experience handling sensitive information

physical requirements

• Sitting/Standing: Remaining in a stationary position for extended periods (sitting at a desk, standing at a counter). 
• Reaching: Reaching for items on shelves or in cabinets. 
• Lifting/Carrying: Moving boxes, files, or other office equipment up to 15 pounds.
• Using Hands/Fingers: Operating a computer, keyboard, mouse, and other office equipment. 
• Vision: Close vision for computer work and detailed tasks. 
• Fine Motor Skills: Using a mouse, keyboard, and other small office tools. 

travel requirements

• Ability to travel locally or regionally on occasion (<10%), as job duties require.

work environment

• Hybrid

This job description is not intended to be all-inclusive, and responsibilities can be expected to evolve over time to meet changing business needs. The employee may be required to perform other related duties to meet these needs. While BIO’s intent is always to be clear and transparent about the expectations of this role, this job description may be reviewed and updated accordingly with or without notice. BIO is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other protected characteristic under federal, state, or local law. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.