Government Affairs Associate (Contractor)

Public Private Strategies (PPS) creates opportunities where the public and private sectors meet. We bring together diverse allies including foundations, associations, corporations, small businesses, and entrepreneurs to solve pressing societal challenges. By harnessing the power of the private sector, we build coalitions, activate campaigns, and create strategic partnerships to drive desired policy and market outcomes.

Position Overview

PPS is currently seeking an entry-level Government Affairs Associate (contract role) to support our growing government affairs portfolio. This role will help PPS build relationships with key Congressional lawmakers and federal agencies to advance policies that support small and microbusiness including on issues like paid family/caregiver leave and economic and tax policy.

This is a contract position with an opportunity for employment at the end of the initial contract period (approx. 6 months). The monthly retainer rate is $4,000.

Key Responsibilities

• Supporting operational needs: Serves as a junior member of the Government Affairs team supporting project leads and principals. This includes general operational support (e.g., scheduling, etc.), keeping trackers and project management tools up to date, and helping with logistic/administrative support for projects. Also, this role will work collaboratively with different teams within the organization as necessary. 
• Tracks policy-related news, publications, and other commentaries from a variety of sources and disseminates information to the Government Affairs team and relevant clients: This includes tracking relevant legislation at all stages that may impact our clients; developing expertise in select legislation areas as necessary (the majority of this work will be at the federal level but select clients may also have needs at the state level).
• Assists in client-focused research: This includes developing materials for projects and communications, including weekly briefs to clients, communications to targeted congressional staff, briefing packages for senior executives, talking points for clients as requested, and Congressional testimony and statements for the record.
• Project support: This includes providing direct support to several unique projects through drafting relevant documents, and managing relationships with clients and strategic partners. 
• Conducting research and drafting relevant documents: This includes writing reports, tip sheets, and briefs in support of project needs. Additionally, this role would need to conduct research from time to time on various employer-related issues. 
• Assists with event planning designed to elevate client policy priorities: Including logistical planning, planning event sessions, drafting agenda, run of show, scripts, and any other necessary materials. Collaboration with team members to design and execute a variety of virtual events and engagements. 

Who You Are: 

• A Bachelor’s degree in political science or relevant field
• Experience working as a congressional intern or staff assistant (for less than two years) is a plus
• Strong interest/passion for uplifting/supporting small businesses through the public policy process
• Previous project management experience is a plus
• Experience planning events, including large conferences, briefings, and webinars; experience with scheduling calls, meetings, and events
• Detail oriented 
• Exceptional communication skills, both written and oral
• Ability to multitask and work across projects of different focus within required time frame
• Ability to produce consistent, quality work in a fast-paced environment
• Strong writing and research skills 
• Self-starter/self-motivated and demonstrated ability to work autonomously

Education and Experience Required:

• Bachelor’s degree or relevant experience in a related field required
• Demonstrated familiarity and comfort in using Google Suite, Microsoft Office suite, Zoom, Outlook and other forms of customary office equipment or software.
• Outstanding organizational skills, with the ability to prioritize and multitask a variety of projects across issue areas

How to Apply

For consideration, e-mail one single PDF including a cover letter, resumé and at least two (2)

references to: maya@publicprivatestrategies.com with the subject line: Government Affairs Associate. The deadline for application is September 30, 2023.

EEO Statement

Acceptance for everyone, everywhere is at the heart of our organization. We promote diversity of thought, culture, and background. As such, we are proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, ancestry, national origin, religion or religious creed, mental or physical disability, medical condition, genetic information, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, and related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, age, marital status, military or veteran status, citizenship, or other characteristics protected by state or federal law or local ordinance.