Senior Manager of Government Affairs (Job ID: 2025-3767)

Join one of the most influential, most quoted and most trusted think tanks!

The Brookings Institution is a nonprofit public policy organization based in Washington, DC. Our mission is to conduct in-depth research that leads to new ideas for solving problems facing society at the local, national and global level.

We bring together leading experts in government and academia from all over the world, rooted in open-minded inquiry and representing diverse points of view, who provide the highest quality research, policy recommendations, and analysis. Research topics cover a full range of public policy issues in economics, foreign policy, development, governance and metropolitan policy.

With fair and transparent business practices, clear communication, mutual respect, and a collaborative atmosphere that offers both professional and personal development opportunities, Brookings offers an inclusive and welcoming workplace that values the efforts of all contributors.

The Office of Communications is a centralized service unit that develops effective communications products and strategies to empower and share impactful scholar messages to wide audiences. The Office of Communications meets the daily needs of the institution through web development and publication support, convening and event support, multimedia services like video, animations, and podcasting, governance of visual design and brand systems, social media management, and institutional brand and media communications. 

The Brookings Studio’s mission is to provide broadcast quality services to the Brookings community enabling global outreach by our scholars to television, radio and web-based news outlets.  We are successful when scholars can focus on their interview, while our team operates the facilities and manages the logistics.

Position Location: This position is hybrid. Hybrid positions combine regular in-person presence at our Washington, DC office with the option of at least two days of remote work each week.

Please Note: This position is included in the staff bargaining unit, Brookings United, affiliated with the IFPTE Local 70 union, and is covered under the terms of the collective bargaining agreement. 

Note: Please be advised that The Brookings Institution is currently undergoing a multi-year strategic implementation, and as part of this effort, your role, supervisor, and program may change.

Ready to make an impact? In this role, you will support Brookings values of collegiality, respect, inclusion, diversity and community, and bring the following qualifications:

Education and Experience Requirements

Bachelor's degree in Political Science, International Affairs, Public Policy, Law, Communications, Marketing, or a related field is preferred. Minimum of 5 years of progressive work experience in government affairs, public policy, audience strategy, communications, or public affairs, with experience and expertise in U.S. domestic policy strongly preferred. Proven experience in engaging with government bodies and officials, with a strong understanding of legislative and regulatory processes at the federal level; additional experience at the local, state, and/or international levels is strongly preferred. Demonstrated ability to develop and execute strategic plans to engage with policymakers and other key stakeholders. Experience providing guidance and support to scholars, nonprofit staff, and/or leadership in their interactions with public officials. Strong track record of using data and research to drive strategic decisions and measure impact, including in policy or advocacy environments. Substantial experience in developing and executing multi-channel engagement strategies. Proven ability to translate complex research into actionable insights and communicate effectively with senior stakeholders. Background in digital strategy and familiarity with contemporary marketing and analytics tools is a plus. Brookings policy prohibits lobbying in the course of Brookings activities and this position will not be expected or permitted to engage in lobbying activities.

Knowledge and Skill Requirements

Excellent written and verbal communication skills with demonstrated ability to tailor messages to a diverse audience and translate complex data and research into compelling insights. Demonstrated ability to build and maintain relationships across policy, government, and research communities. Strategic mindset with track record of developing engagement strategies that drive measurable results. Experience working in policy or advocacy environments with understanding of legislative and regulatory processes, expertise in U.S. domestic policy preferred. Analytical skills to assess the potential impact of legislative and regulatory developments on the institution's mission and research areas. Proficient in analytics platforms, CRM systems, and audience research tools. Detail-oriented project manager capable of leading multiple complex initiatives simultaneously. Collaborative contributor with proven ability to work across teams and guide cross-functional projects. Strong understanding of policy landscape and stakeholder ecosystem. Commitment to nonpartisanship, scholar independence, civil debate, and inclusive policymaking.

What can we offer you? Brookings provides a generous benefit package that is comprehensive and includes both traditional benefits and unique offerings. Our comprehensive benefits package includes medical, dental, and vision benefits, generous time off, and workplace flexibility. For more information, please visit Brookings Benefits.

Brookings requires that all applicants submit a cover letter and resume. Please attach your cover letter and resume as one document when you apply. Please note: If you have applied to more than one Brookings job opening, you should add a position-specific cover letter as a separate attachment.

Successful completion of a background investigation is required for employment at Brookings.

Brookings welcomes and celebrates diversity in all its forms.  We welcome applications that reflect a variety of backgrounds based on ideology, race, ethnicity, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, disability, veteran status, first-generation college goers, and other factors protected by law. Brookings is proud to be an equal-opportunity employer that is committed to promoting a diverse and inclusive workplace.

Please Note: Must be authorized to work for any employer in the U.S.