Technology and Innovation Policy Director

Technology and Innovation Policy Director Location: Washington DC, 2055 L St NW Ste 700, Washington, DC 20036, USA The National Restaurant Association, one of the most influential business associations, has an exciting opportunity for a Technology and Innovation Policy Director. As an integral member of our Public Affairs team, this high‑profile position is responsible for helping develop, manage, and implement comprehensive regulatory and legislative strategies that advance the Association’s mission across technology, innovation, and commerce. Reporting to the Vice President of Public Policy, the Technology and Innovation Policy Director will work closely with the Association’s member companies and state partners, federal, state, and local officials, and other stakeholders. The Director will also assist with regulatory compliance matters related to electronic payment systems, data privacy, third‑party delivery, gift and prepaid cards, and intellectual property affecting restaurant profitability and growth. Responsibilities Provide strategic direction on all issues impacting restaurant and foodservice profitability, including legislative and regulatory strategy, external communications, internal member communications, and marketplace opportunities. Analyze legislative and regulatory initiatives, and the political landscape, and implement efforts to achieve industry policy goals. Identify and explain emerging policy issues in technology, innovation, and commerce affecting the restaurant industry. Represent and advocate for the Association before lawmakers, regulators, and in key briefings, panels, conferences, and meetings; this includes lobbying activity. Draft Congressional and regulatory communications, including industry comments and testimony. Provide strategic input on political giving and represent the Association at political events related to technology and innovation. Develop and execute thought leadership, issue monitoring, advocacy forecasting, and internal strategy on key issues such as electronic payments, music licensing, data privacy, and digital identity. Build relationships with Congress, congressional staff, administration officials, and agency staff. Assist with the Association’s participation in coalitions and advocacy groups related to the Director’s responsibilities. Collaborate with Advocacy Communications staff to respond to media inquiries and press outlets. Maintain positive relationships with other food industry trade associations with common interests. Work on special projects and other duties as assigned by the Vice President of Public Policy to further departmental goals. Requirements Bachelor’s degree required; advanced degree(s) in political science, government relations, public policy, or equivalent preferred. Publicly registered lobbyist with 6‑8 years of experience in a trade association, Hill, or administration role, engaged in payments and data privacy regulation. Strong interpersonal, diplomatic, and team‑building skills. Personable, approachable, and collaborative with a sense of humor. Strategic vision in business, government affairs, and the restaurant industry. Deep functional experience in government and public affairs. Proven coalition‑building experience and established government relationships. Exceptional analytical and critical‑thinking abilities. Experience in building business and stakeholder relationships. Fundamental understanding of the restaurant industry’s business environment. Clear and concise written and verbal communication skills. Ability to convey complex concepts to high‑level government and business audiences. Computer proficiency in MS Office (Excel, Word, Outlook, PowerPoint). Organizational, time‑management, priority‑setting, and problem‑solving skills, with the ability to multitask. Strong work ethic and sense of urgency. Team‑oriented and self‑directed. Adaptability to fast‑paced, fluid environments. Travelable; estimate 10‑15%. Equal Opportunity Employer The National Restaurant Association, National Restaurant Association Solutions, LLC, and The National Restaurant Association Educational Foundation (together, “Company”) is committed to equal employment opportunity. It is the Company’s policy to take affirmative action to employ and advance protected veterans and individuals with disabilities. We will recruit, hire, train, and promote persons in all job titles without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, veteran status or disability. All employment decisions will be based solely on valid job requirements. This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the “Know Your Rights” notice from the Department of Labor. #J-18808-Ljbffr Default Brand