Director, Trade Policy

Location: Washington, DC

Reports to: Senior Vice President, Head of Government Affairs

The Global Business Alliance (GBA) seeks a dynamic and self-driven professional to lead our trade policy advocacy and strategy. With at least 8 years of experience in trade policy, the Director, Trade Policy will play a pivotal role in advancing GBA’s mission to promote an open economy that welcomes international companies to invest in America.

This individual will spearhead efforts to shape federal and regulatory trade policies, advocating for fair and non-discriminatory treatment of international companies operating in the U.S. In addition to direct advocacy work, the Director will analyze international trade policy in the United States, with a particular focus on foreign direct investment and the impact of tariffs, nontariff barriers, industrial policy and trade balances. 

A successful candidate will have a strong interest and background in policies impacting global businesses, including trade, and a demonstrated understanding of the legislative and regulatory processes. This individual should have strong relationships in Congress and within the key federal departments. This person should also display excellent analytical and writing skills, as well as be a strategic thinker, capable of anticipating project needs and meeting deadlines with high-quality work in a fast-paced environment.

About GBA

The Global Business Alliance is the premier voice of international companies in the United States. Our members are international companies with major operations in the United States and an indispensable part of our nation’s economic success. Our mission is to actively promote and defend an open economy that welcomes international companies to invest in America.

Key Responsibilities

• Collaborate with the SVP, Head of Government Affairs, to develop and implement legislative, regulatory, political, and strategic trade initiatives aligned with GBA’s priorities.
• Lead GBA’s federal advocacy efforts on trade policy, including direct lobbying and engagement with senior U.S. government officials.
• Serve as a trusted source of insights on issues such as U.S. tariff powers (Section 232, Section 301, IEEPA), international tariff policies, World Trade Organization (WTO) enforcement actions and regulations, export controls, and free trade agreements.
• Build and sustain coalitions with third-party organizations to amplify GBA’s trade policy priorities.
• Maintain and strengthen relationships with Congressional leaders and federal departments to influence policymaking processes.
• Partner with internal teams (communications, membership, events) to deliver organizational excellence and enhance member value.
• Oversee collaborations with external consultants to ensure high-impact outcomes.

Qualifications

• Deep expertise in trade policy, including tariffs, IEEPA, WTO, export controls, investment restrictions and other non-tariff barriers.
• Proven experience in trade policy advocacy and its intersection with foreign direct investment.
• Established relationships within Congress and federal agencies, with a non-partisan approach to stakeholder engagement.
• Exceptional writing and communication skills, with the ability to distill complex issues into actionable insights.
• Analytical skills and a strategic mindset to anticipate challenges and opportunities.
• Excellent interpersonal skills, with a high degree of professionalism
• Passion for advancing GBA’s vision and supporting its member companies’ success in the U.S.

Why Join GBA?

At GBA, you will work at the forefront of global economic advocacy, influencing trade policies that shape the future of international business in the United States. This is an opportunity to contribute meaningfully to a mission-driven organization that values collaboration, excellence and innovation. GBA is an Equal Opportunity Employer and offers a range of competitive employee benefits, including medical, dental and vision plans; generous retirement savings and 401(k) matching programs; subsidized transit benefits; paid time off; paid parental leave; and family flex leave.

This is a full-time position based in Washington, D.C. Qualified candidates will interview, onboard, and work in a hybrid office environment (currently Mon-Wed in the office and Thu-Fri remote).

Application Process

Please email your cover letter and resume to opportunities@globalbusiness.org with the subject line: Director, Trade Policy.