Executive Director, ABA Foundation & Policy Director, American Bus Association

Job Overview:

The American Bus Association (ABA) is seeking an experienced professional to serve as the Executive Director of the ABA Foundation while also supporting Policy Affairs for ABA. This unique position involves a dual focus with a large majority of the role dedicated to leading the ABA Foundation, a 501(c)(3) organization that conducts and distributes industry research, promotes scholarships and supports philanthropic activities. The remaining role will focus on ABA’s legislative affairs and policy analysis. This person will not be a federally registered lobbyist.

The ideal candidate will have a background in communications, marketing, government relations, and strategic advocacy campaign execution. They will be able to advance the Foundation’s mission, support ABA legislative initiatives, and engage ABA members and industry stakeholders. Experience with foundations and/or industry-led research campaigns is preferred but not required.

Key Responsibilities: ABA Foundation Leadership (80%):

• Lead the ABA Foundation’s mission to conduct, compile, and disseminate industry research and data to ABA members, policymakers, and the public.
• Develop and implement strategies to expand the Foundation’s scholarship and philanthropic programs.
• Establish partnerships with external organizations, including the media, to enhance research efforts and philanthropic activities.
• Secure funding for the Foundation through grants, sponsorships, and donations to support research and scholarships.
• Communicate the Foundation’s impact through various channels, including reports, presentations, in-person events, and digital platforms.
• Ensure that all Foundation activities comply with nonprofit regulations and align with the Foundation and ABA’s strategic missions.

Policy Director, American Bus Association (20%):

• Monitor federal, state, and local legislation affecting the group travel industry, providing regular analysis and updates.
• Support the ABA’s interests before policymakers, through written testimony, policy briefs, issue messaging, and meetings.
• Communicate the ABA’s policy priorities to members, policymakers, and the public through targeted outreach and campaigns.
• Represent the ABA in various state association and other coalition settings, including travel ~25-35% to events outside of Washington, D.C.

Qualifications:

• 7+ years of experience in communications, government relations, public policy, data science, or a related field.
• Demonstrated success in leading strategic campaigns that drive organizational goals.
• Strong public speaking and presentation skills, with the ability to translate complex issues for diverse audiences.
• Proven fundraising skills through successful campaigns to achieve large-value donation projections.
• Familiarity or experience with trade show operations and show-based fundraising activations.
• Expertise in digital media, marketing, and content creation to engage stakeholders effectively.
• Proven leadership and project management skills, with the ability to balance Foundation and legislative responsibilities.
• Experience working with nonprofit organizations, particularly in research, philanthropy, or public policy, is a plus.
• Bachelor’s degree required; advanced degree in public policy, communications, or related field preferred.

Key Competencies:

• Creative strategic thinker with an aptitude for collaboration and driving results.
• Exceptional interpersonal skills and the ability to build and maintain relationships across sectors.
• Strong policy analysis and legislative advocacy expertise.
• Ability to prioritize, manage multiple projects, and thrive under deadlines.
• Passion for the ABA Foundation’s mission and the legislative interests of the ABA.
• The person will not be a federally registered lobbyist.

Benefits

• Health insurance
• Paid time off
• Flexible work environment
• Retirement plan
• Professional development opportunities

Salary

• Commensurate with experience

To Apply

Please send Callie Hoyt, Senior Vice President of Public Affairs and Government Relations at executiveoffice@buses.org, a cover letter that includes your salary expectations and your CV/resume.

Job posting link: https://www.buses.org/about/careers/#ABAF