Manager of Government Affairs

Job Summary/Description

The National Association of Spine Specialists is seeking a Manager of Government Affairs. The position is responsible for federal government advocacy, develop and foster relations with congressional offices, and support Society’s political engagement, legislative and PAC efforts. This position will also work closely with the Associate Executive Director of Health Policy in monitoring regulatory updates (eg, CMS proposed and final rules) and work with appropriate groups in preparing comments.

Job Duties and Responsibilities

·        Serves as the primary staff liaison to the Advocacy Committee and all associated Subcommittees.

·        Works collaboratively with the Health Policy & Advocacy team in building and maintaining relations with congressional offices.

·        Regularly communicates with NASS staff and volunteers on important issues and helps the team understand complex regulations, legislations/legislative processes and their impact on spine care providers.

·        Establishes and maintains contacts with relevant medical organizations and other health-related organizations and agencies. Acts as a liaison to various nationwide coalition efforts to support NASS’ regulatory and legislative objectives.

·        Provides staff support for Advocacy and PAC events/booths.

·        Oversees maintenance and updates of NASS Advocacy webpages and NASS social media accounts with latest information and responds to appropriate external and internal inquiries.

·        Responsible for the drafting, posting, and circulation of action alerts and other communications with NASS members.

·        Oversees administrative functions of SpinePAC. Processes SpinePAC contributions and disbursements. Coordinates with the Accounting department to maintain and update SpinePAC financials for the purpose of accurately reporting to the Federal Election Commission (FEC).

·        In coordination with the SpinePAC Treasurer and the Associate Executive Director of Health Policy identifies the strategic and fundraising duties related to SpinePAC, including but not limited to, identifying SpinePAC investments for candidates seeking election to federal office, as well as developing and executing solicitation campaigns.

·        Assists the team in preparing reports for the NASS Board of Directors, NASS Advocacy Committee and all associated Subcommittees.

·        Other duties as assigned by the Associate Executive Director of Health Policy, NASS Board and Advocacy Committee to contribute to the effectiveness, efficiency and continued visibility of the organization on the Hill.

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Public Policy, Political Science or related fields required.

Experience

Candidate should have 2-3 years of experience in policy with federal government, private sector and/or health-related organization. Association experience preferred. 

Skills Necessary

·        Thorough understanding of federal legislative and regulatory processes. 

·        Superior communication skills necessary for developing and maintaining internal and external business relationships.

·        Excellent organizational and analytical skills, as well as the ability to adapt to a variable workload, manage multiple projects simultaneously, and function in a deadline-oriented environment. 

·        Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite. Knowledge and experience with lobbying disclosure forms.

·        Must be a self-starter, with experience in working with little direct oversight of daily tasks.

·        Excellent planning skills for all advocacy activities and events.

·        Understand complex policy matters, concomitant political situations and ultimately determine final repercussions of proposed policies to help guide members to effective strategic approaches.

·        Adept at managing committees and serve as a mentor and subject-matter on PAC and legislative issues.

·        Work with other departments internally on related matters.

Supervision Exercised

N/A

Relationships

·        Extensive contact within Health Policy Division staff

·        Education, Marketing, Publications, IT & Membership Departments

Travel

·        Occasional travel required (including weekends) for PAC events, NASS Board meetings, Annual Meeting and other events/conferences as needed (3-5 times a year).

Job Conditions

·                    Normal office environment

·                    Exposure to glare/eyestrain of computer screen

·                    Periodic evening/weekend conference calls and in-person meetings

·                    Frequent visits to the Hill and congressional offices during the day