U.S. Public Affairs Manager

Company Description

As one of the world’s largest fashion companies with more than 171,000 employees worldwide, H&M is an exciting and dynamic place to pursue a career within the fashion industry. Our business concept is to offer fashion and quality at the best price in a sustainable way and with our fast expansion we are always looking for new talents. Would you like to be part of our team?

Job Description

The U.S. Public Affairs Manager is responsible for developing and executing H&M’s Public Affairs strategy in the U.S. This position will interact with trade associations, NGOs and local, state and federal government bodies to represent H&M and advocate for the interests of the company. This specialized position will be tasked with monitoring the evolving legislative and regulatory environment and educating internal stakeholders on potential impacts to H&M’s business.

The U.S. Public Affairs Manager will partner with H&M’s global Public Affairs team and local leadership to prioritize key issues and proactively communicate a compelling narrative about H&M’s sustainability and social impact efforts, to improve perception of the company, deepen credibility and enhance influence with policymakers.

This position is based in Washington, DC and reports to the Region Americas Communications Manager.

Core Responsibilities include but are not limited to:

• Develop and execute public affairs strategy that supports H&M Group’s policy goals and advances the company’s position on key issues with policymakers and other influencers in the U.S.
• Build strategic relationships with D.C.-based stakeholders to better explain H&M Group’s leadership position in the areas of sustainability and human rights
• Lead the organization’s relationship and engagement with all US-based trade associations, and develop a clear process for engagement on industry issues
• In partnership with corporate communications, develop organizational key messages and other materials, executive presentations, and applicable social media content aimed to reach key opinion leaders and policymakers
• Collaborate with H&M Group Public Affairs team to ensure aligned agenda and share key learnings with other countries
• Engage effectively and work in partnership with both internal and external stakeholders including department leads, government officials, NGOs, etc.
• Lead and implement all Public Affairs activities in the US including proactive and reactive communications on position papers, legislative proposals and other strategic political developments
• Possess the ability work through ambiguity, in a challenging sector and demonstrate leadership and analytical skills as well as impact through clear actions
• Monitor the political discussions and build a heat map for relevant issues on the horizon
• Simplify the complexity of legislative activity, connecting the dots for leaders and showcasing potential business impact
• Oversee external agency relationships with strategic communications, lobbying, or public affairs firms

Qualifications

What You’ll Need to Succeed:

• Bachelor’s degree in public policy, communications or a related field.
• 7-10 years of experience working in government, trade associations, public affairs firms, or an in-house corporate government relations department
• Proven track record of running successful public affairs campaigns
• Expansive network of relationships across the Washington, D.C. landscape.
• Strong writing and communications skills —someone with ability to negotiate, persuade and counsel effectively and understands the intersection of marketing, communications and public policy
• Proven knowledge and understanding of the legislative and regulatory processes at the Federal level, and experience working with organizations that have a global footprint.
• Strong organizational skills and ability to track success and ROI
• Outstanding interpersonal skills with the ability to interact effectively with all levels of management and staff
• Ability to provide leadership and guidance through shared H&M values
• Able to work independently and be self-motivated while still working within a team environment and fostering a strong team collaboration
• Required domestic travel to NYC office up to 20% of the time

Job Status: Salary, Exempt

Additional Information

All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.