Director of Government Affairs

The American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA) is the leading professional organization representing podiatrists in the United States. Dedicated to advancing foot and ankle health, APMA provides advocacy, education, and resources to support its members in delivering high-quality patient care. The association promotes research, public awareness, and professional development to enhance the field of podiatric medicine. Through its commitment to excellence and innovation, APMA works to improve healthcare policies, foster collaboration within the medical community, and elevate the role of podiatrists in the broader healthcare system.

Position Summary

The Director of Government Affairs will play a critical role in advancing APMA’s advocacy agenda by leading legislative initiatives, engaging with key stakeholders, and managing the association’s political action committee (APMAPAC). This position will serve as a principal lobbyist, develop policy proposals, and execute grassroots mobilization strategies to support APMA’s mission. The Director will also provide leadership and strategic guidance to staff within the Advocacy Department.

Key Responsibilities

Serve as a principal lobbyist advocating on behalf of APMA’s legislative priorities.

Identify and implement strategies and tactics to achieve the association’s advocacy goals.

Monitor and track relevant federal legislation.

Draft policy proposals, testimony, advocacy materials, and other communications to advance APMA’s priorities.

Engage with policymakers through lobbying, meetings, and presentations to advocate for desired policy changes.

Stakeholder Engagement

Build and maintain relationships with key stakeholders, including coalition partners, national, and state leaders, and grassroots organizations.

Coordinate advocacy efforts with partner organizations to maximize impact and influence.

Mobilize grassroots supporters through outreach campaigns, site visits, and letter-writing initiatives.

Manage staff to increase grassroots engagement of APMA members in legislative (federal and state) and regulatory initiatives.

Plan and execute legislative and advocacy conferences to enhance APMA’s influence.

Leadership and Management,

Assist the Vice President, Advocacy in the overall management of APMA’s Advocacy Department.

Serve as the primary liaison to the Legislative Committee and APMAPAC.

Supervise and provide strategic direction to assigned staff members.

APMAPAC Management

Develop and execute strategies, operations, and tactics related to APMA’s Political Action Committee (APMAPAC).

Oversee day-to-day PAC operations, including an annual solicitation and communication plan, election cycle disbursement budgeting, and membership outreach.

Partner with the Finance and Operations Department to manage risks, controls, and compliance processes associated with the PAC.

Required Skills and Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree or equivalent work experience in political science, health policy, public administration, or a related field is required.

A Juris Doctorate or Master’s degree is preferred.

5-7 years of experience in government relations, advocacy, or provider-related healthcare policy.

Experience working for Congress, federal agencies, or provider associations is strongly preferred.

An equivalent combination of education and experience may be substituted on a year-for-year basis.

Strong knowledge of the healthcare industry and physician practices.

Deep understanding of political, federal legislative, and regulatory processes.

Ability to work independently or collaboratively and adapt to changing priorities.

Excellent analytical skills with the ability to interpret complex regulations and legislation.

Strategic thinker with the ability to see the “big picture” and connect the dots across the Association and the broader healthcare industry.

Must live within a commutable distance to APMA headquarters in Rockville, MD as this position requires minimum 2 days on-site per week.