Managing Dir, Public Policy & Federal Affairs

Job Description

Job Description

The American Institute of Architects (AIA)

AIA will provide you with the opportunity to advocate for the value of architecture and give architects and design professionals the resources they need to do their best work. The collective voice of architects is essential, and our work drives positive change through the power of design.

Each one of us at AIA is a leader committed to demonstrating our mission and values, and designing a better future for our country and planet. Even in times of change, AIA’s values remain constant :

• We stand for equity and human rights.
• We stand for architecture that strengthens our communities.

We stand for a sustainable future.

The American Institute of Architects, as part of the global community, is building a culture of equity, diversity, and inclusion within the profession of architecture to create a better built environment for all. Achieving this vision has a direct impact on the relevance of the profession of architecture and the world's prosperity, health, and future.

Job Summary

Reporting to the Chief Government Affairs Officer (CGAO) in the Government Affairs & Public Policy department, the Managing Director is responsible for managing all aspects of the Institute’s work with respect to federal legislative relations, public policy, codes and standards, international, and state and local affairs, which includes leading the development, adoption, and advancement of the Institute’s overarching legislative priorities among AIA staff, AIA leadership, and member groups, relationships with the Administration and Congress. This role will also provide stewardship for AIA strategy, polices and positions as they relate to international, federal, state, and local policy making and works with fellow AIA staff and volunteers to actively promote and protect the profession of architects on behalf of all AIA members.

The Managing Director will work with the Government Affairs & Public Policy Team and other AIA departments and constituencies to bring the Institute’s data, analysis, and strategic expertise to bear on federal affairs and policy discussions at the local, state, federal, and international levels. This will be accomplished by engaging with the federal government and aligned interest groups / trade associations to further AIA government relations objectives as well as writing and contributing to white papers, technical reports, policy briefs and papers to support the Institute’s positions.

The Managing Director is responsible for providing guidance and expertise on policy matters that impact the entire Institute, managing the governance of AIA Government Affairs, Public Policies, and Position Statements, and working closely and collaboratively with other AIA teams to ensure the Institute’s government affairs and public policy outreach is consistent (an adhered to) across the organization.

Job Duties :

Staff and Program Management

Government Affairs & Public Policy

Collaboration, Promotion and Engagement

Frequent Contacts :

Qualifications :

Bachelor’s or advanced degree in Political Science, Public Policy, Architecture, Engineering, or a related field, with a minimum of 10 years related experience, of which a preferred minimum of 7 years in association / non-profit government advocacy and relations preferred. Political and federal government experience a must. Proven management skills. Some travel is required.

Supervisory Requirements :

Lead a team of 9

What we offer :

We offer a comprehensive benefits package that reflects our company values and workplace culture, including :

Employee Assistance Program (EAP) for employees and their family members

Location : Hybrid from the Washington DC metro area only (DC, MD, VA)

Applicants from states not listed above are ineligible.

AIA employees in the DC metro area are currently working remotely during our office renovation. Employees in the DC Metro area will return to a hybrid work environment in the newly renovated office at the completion of the renovation in the Fall of 2025.

Travel Requirements : 20%

Equal Opportunity Employer, including veterans and individuals with disabilities.