Government Relations Manager

AACOM is seeking a full-time, experienced Government Relations Manager to serve as a key member of the Government Relations and Health Affairs team. Reporting to the Director of Government Relations, this role acts as a liaison between AACOM and federal policymakers, agencies, advocacy organizations, and member institutions. The Government Relations Manager supports the development and execution of legislative and regulatory strategies that advance AACOM’s public policy agenda and osteopathic medical education. 

If you are someone who: 

• Has a strong interest in public policy, government relations, and health affairs
• Brings experience in advocacy, public affairs, or legislative and regulatory work
• Enjoys building relationships with policymakers, coalitions, and diverse stakeholders
• Is comfortable managing multiple initiatives while working independently and strategically
• Communicates complex policy issues clearly and persuasively to varied audiences
• Exercises a high level of professional and independent judgement
• Aligns with AACOM’s mission to advance osteopathic medical education and improve public health

This role may be a great fit for you!

ABOUT AACOM 

The American Association of Colleges of Osteopathic Medicine, also known as AACOM, was founded in 1898 to lend support and assistance to the nation's osteopathic medical schools, and to serve as a unifying voice for osteopathic medical education. The association is guided by its Board of Deans of member colleges of osteopathic medicine, and various other member councils and committees. AACOM represents and advances the continuum of medical education by: 

• Supporting our member institutions as they educate the future physician workforce
• Increasing awareness of osteopathic medical education and osteopathic medicine
• Promoting excellence in medical education, policy, research, and service
• Fostering innovation and quality throughout medical education

WHAT YOU’LL DO 

Government Relations & Advocacy 

• Serve as a registered federal lobbyist representing AACOM before Congress, the Administration, federal agencies, and industry stakeholders.
• Cultivate and manage relationships with policymakers and partners at all levels of government.
• Provide a strong and credible voice for AACOM on public policy issues impacting osteopathic medical education and public health.

Legislative & Regulatory Affairs 

• Advocate for AACOM public policy priorities to Congress and the Administration.
• Monitor, analyze, and respond to federal legislative, regulatory, and policy developments.
• Develop and disseminate legislative and regulatory updates, alerts, and analyses.
• Represent AACOM at congressional hearings, federal agency meetings, and coalition events.

Advocacy Network Development & Engagement 

• Support the administration and growth of AACOM’s grassroots and grasstops advocacy networks.
• Identify, recruit, and engage leaders to amplify AACOM’s influence with decision-makers.
• Develop timely communications to activate AACOM members in advocacy efforts.

Strategic Coordination, Events & Communications 

• Foster collaboration across AACOM departments to advance government relations and health affairs goals.
• Manage advocacy-related events, including lobby days and Capitol Hill briefings.
• Draft government relations content such as newsletters, fact sheets, talking points, policy briefs, website material, and social media content.
• Coordinates work of external lobbying firms in consultation with senior leadership

WHO WE NEED 

Our ideal team member will have the following: 

• Bachelor’s degree .
• Five (5) years of professional experience preferred.
• Experience in government relations, advocacy, lobbying, or public policy.
• Strong understanding of federal healthcare and education policy.
• Ability to evaluate legislative and regulatory risks and opportunities.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills, including translating complex policy issues for diverse audiences and the ability to present on behalf of the association.
• Keen attention to detail and strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities independently.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office; familiarity with advocacy platforms (CQ, BGOV, VoterVoice, Leadership Connect) and Salesforce preferred.
• DMV area residency required for local meetings and events

WHAT WE DO FOR YOU 

• Annual bonus program
• 403(b) with generous 10% employer contribution
• Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance
• Company-provided life insurance, Short-Term Disability, and Long-Term Disability
• Flexible Spending Account
• 12annual company-paid holidays
• Vacation & sick leave benefits
• Professional Development Opportunities
• And more!

COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS 

This is a full-time exempt, hybrid position with health, dental, vision, vacation, sick leave and 403(b) benefits. The salary range for this position is $80,000 to $90,000 annually. 

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION 

AACOM is committed to fostering an inclusive and respectful workplace. We provide equal employment opportunities to all applicants and employees and do not discriminate based on any legally protected status or characteristic. All employment decisions are made based on individual qualifications, merit, and organizational needs. If you require an accommodation due to a disability, please inform your recruiter.