Public Policy Manager

Public Policy Manager

The Information Technology and Innovation Foundation (ITIF), the world’s leading think tank for science and technology policy, is seeking a Public Policy Manager to help bring ITIF’s research and policy ideas directly to policymakers in Washington, DC.

This is a highly hands-on role for someone who enjoys working directly with people and turning research into policy impact. The Policy Engagement Manager will spend substantial time meeting with members of Congress and congressional staff, executive branch officials, and other policymakers; organizing briefings and other events; and connecting ITIF researchers with the policymakers who can use their work. The ideal candidate is an energetic, resourceful, and highly organized self-starter who is comfortable picking up the phone, walking the halls of the Capitol, arranging meetings, and following through to get things done.

This is not a lobbying position. Rather, the Public Policy Manager will help policymakers understand and engage with ITIF’s independent research and policy recommendations across a range of technology and economic policy issues.

Reporting to ITIF’s Executive Vice President for Strategic Partnerships, the Public Policy Manager will work closely with ITIF’s research and communications teams to identify opportunities to put out research in front of the right audiences and build lasting relationships with policymakers.

This is a full-time position in Washington, DC. The salary for this position is $75,000 - $115,000, depending on experience. ITIF also provides a health and retirement benefits package, generous paid vacation, an annual performance-based bonus, and a public transportation benefit.

Essential Responsibilities

• Build and maintain strong working relationships with members of Congress, congressional staff, executive branch officials, and other policymakers.
• Spend substantial time in face-to-face meetings with policymakers and their staff to discuss ITIF research and identify opportunities for engagement.
• Work closely with ITIF researchers to identify relevant policymakers and arrange meetings, briefings, and other opportunities to present their work.
• Organize and execute congressional staff trips, briefings, roundtables, salon dinners, policy retreats, and other public and private events.
• Recruit policymakers and other relevant stakeholders to participate in ITIF events and engage with ITIF research.
• Monitor congressional and executive branch activity and identify timely opportunities for ITIF researchers to engage with policymakers.
• Help coordinate ITIF responses to legislative and regulatory developments by connecting researchers with relevant policymakers and stakeholders.
• Promote ITIF publications, events, and other research directly to relevant policymakers and their staff.
• Maintain accurate and timely records of contacts, meetings, and other engagement activities in ITIF’s CRM.
• Follow up consistently with policymakers and stakeholders to develop relationships and turn individual meetings and events into sustained engagement.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in political science, public affairs, communications, public policy, or a related field, or equivalent experience.
• At least five years of relevant professional experience in government, politics, public policy, government affairs, external affairs, nonprofit organizations, or a similar field.
• Strong understanding of how Congress, the executive branch, and the policymaking process work. Demonstrated ability to build and maintain professional relationships with policymakers and other stakeholders.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, including the ability to communicate complex ideas clearly and credibly in person.
• Highly organized, resourceful, and able to manage multiple priorities and deadlines.
• Comfortable taking initiative and working independently, including identifying opportunities and following through without extensive direction.
• Ability to quickly understand and discuss research on complex policy issues.
• Strong interest in technology, innovation, economic policy, science policy, or related issues.
• Willingness to spend substantial time meeting with policymakers and working in and around the Capitol.
• Willingness to work occasional irregular hours, including early mornings and evenings, and to travel occasionally for ITIF events and other engagements.
• Ability to work collaboratively with researchers, communications staff, and other colleagues.

Application Process

To apply for this position, please submit the following:

• Cover letter explaining your interest in the position and relevant qualifications (1 page maximum).
• Resume (2 pages maximum).