Director, Government Affairs

Apply via our job board here:

Job Description

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 Director, Government Affairs will provide general administrative, legislative and political support to the Government Affairs department. Specifically, work directly with Senior Vice President and other senior leaders on the Government Affairs team on a range of legislative priorities from anti-trust, financial services, privacy and transportation.

Position Responsibilities:

General Advocacy

• Serve as a RILA government affairs expert on a range of issues relevant to the retail industry including but not limited to the payments, supply chain, and anti-trust issue areas.
• Develop and maintain strategic relationships with Members of Congress, congressional staff, committees, and federal agencies.
• Assist in drafting and submitting comments on relevant Federal Register notices and regulatory rulemakings.
• Plan and lead congressional outreach, briefings, and testimony related to retail priorities.

Member & Coalition Engagement

• Manage RILA member committees and working groups, including coordinating monthly calls and planning in‑person meetings.
• Provide timely updates to members on policy developments relevant to the retail industry.
• Manage and participate in coalitions and coordinate industry input to support policy objectives.

Strategy & Collaboration

• Coordinate with outside consultants and external resources to ensure alignment with advocacy goals.
• Contribute thought leadership to RILA newsletters and policy publications.
• Collaborate with other RILA staff to ensure consistent messaging and seamless member support.

Skills & Experience:

• Demonstrated experience working on public policy advocacy and with committee/work group relations. Knowledge of associations and specific issue areas a plus.
• High-quality written and verbal communication skills.
• A high level of professionalism, including the ability to work with executives from member companies, association partners, and RILA staff at all levels.
• Strong operational skills, with the ability to effectively work both collaboratively with our team and independently.
• Demonstrated ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously, without compromising quality of work.
• Strong decision-making ability.
• Attention to detail.
• Flexibility and willingness to change and adapt with the fast-paced retail industry.
• Position located in DC.

Compensation & Benefits:

• $90,000 - $115,000 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 board here - Learn more about RILA at

Thanks!