Vice President, International Trade

About the Job

Apply at our job page here:

At the Retail Industry Leaders Association (RILA), we convene decision-makers, advocate for the retail industry, and promote operational excellence and innovation. Our aim is bold but simple: to elevate a dynamic industry by transforming the environment in which retailers operate.

We are a dynamic, collaborative, team-oriented trade association in Washington, DC. Our employees are passionate about customer service and supporting our members and each other, and we are adding to the team!

Position Summary:

The Vice President of International Trade serves as RILA's lead government affairs expert and advocate on international trade, customs, and responsible sourcing matters impacting the retail industry. This dynamic role represents RILA before Congress, federal agencies, and other key stakeholders, advancing the interests of member companies and supporting the association's policy objectives. The Vice President leads member engagement through committee leadership and working groups, providing strategic policy guidance, updates, and platforms for member feedback and collaboration.

Position Responsibilities:

• Serve as RILA's primary government affairs lead on trade and customs-related matters.
• Develop and maintain strategic relationships with Members of Congress, congressional staff, committees, and federal agencies.
• Submit comments on relevant rulemakings and notices published in the Federal Register.
• Plan and lead congressional outreach and briefings on priority issues.
• Draft and coordinate testimony for congressional hearings and letters to the Hill.
• Lead and manage member committees and working groups, including leading monthly calls, planning in-person meetings, and providing timely updates on trade and customs matters.
• Manage and participate in various coalitions and coordinate industry input.
• Oversee work of outside consultants and resources to ensure alignment with policy goals.
• Supervise and support assigned junior Government Affairs staff, including coaching, workload coordination, and professional development.
• Contribute thought leadership to RILA newsletters and policy publications.
• Coordinate and collaborate with other RILA issue leads to deliver seamless member services and content.

Skills & Experience:

• Proven trade knowledge and issue expertise following years of work experience.
• Prior experience should include some combination of work on or with Capitol Hill, the Executive branch, a trade association or for a company.
• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills with strong attention to detail.
• Demonstrated ability to communicate and build relationships with members, external partners and/or stakeholders.
• Strong operational skills, with the ability to effectively work both collaboratively with our team and independently.
• Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously, without compromising quality of work.
• Ability to create, manage, and facilitate content for virtual and in-person committee meetings.
• Curiosity, flexibility, and willingness to change and adapt with the fast-paced retail industry.
• Travel to meetings and events as necessary.

Compensation & Benefits:

• $190,000 - $210,000 salary range.
• Flexible and hybrid office environment (3 days in office).
• Affordable Medical, Dental, and Vision Coverage (FSA/HSA options available).
• Employer-sponsored Life Insurance, STD, and LTD Coverage.
• 401(K)/Roth 401(K) Retirement Plan with employer match.
• Mental Wellness Health Reimbursement Arrangement.
• Unlimited Paid Time Off + 12 Federal holiday closures.
• 12 weeks paid parental leave.
• Professional development opportunities.
• Team outings/gatherings.

RILA is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, or protected veteran status and will not be discriminated against on the basis of disability.

Application Instructions:

Please submit a resume and cover letter to be considered for the position at our job page here

Learn more about RILA at