Government Affairs Communications, Sr. Manager (Arlington)

Reference: 726534BRPosted: 2026-04-29Location: Arlington, VirginiaClearance: Top SecretCompany: Lockheed MartinDescription:The Senior Manager, Government Affairs Communications is a strategic leader responsible for designing and executing communications strategies that directly advance Lockheed Martin’s legislative, policy and program advocacy support to corporate priorities and campaigns. This role sits at the intersection of communications, policy, and national security—ensuring the company’s narrative reaches and resonates with key decision-makers across Capitol Hill and the Department of War.Reporting to the Director, Global Media, Financial Communications & Public Affairs, this leader partners closely with Lockheed Martin Government Affairs (LMGA) and LM Business Area executives in support of LM corporate priorities and campaigns to shape perception, influence policy conversations, and strengthen the company’s position within the Beltway in a coordinated and effective manner.This is not a traditional communications role—this individual will operate as a trusted advisor and strategist, with the judgment, political discretion, and credibility to engage senior stakeholders in high-stakes environments.________________________________________Key Responsibilities• Develop and execute integrated communications strategies that advance legislative, policy and program support to LM corporate priorities and campaigns, helping to position Lockheed Martin with key audiences, including Members of Congress, Congressional staff, DoW leadership, and administration officials • Shape and drive messaging on critical defense and national security issues, ensuring alignment with customer priorities and the broader policy environment • Provide high-level communications counsel to senior Government Affairs executives and operate as a trusted advisor with the judgment, political discretion, and credibility to engage stakeholders in high-stakes environments • Support the SVP, Government Affairs, and other senior leaders with speeches, briefing materials, and thought leadership that reinforce key policy objectives • Serve as the central connector between Corporate Communications, Business Areas, and government affairs to ensure consistent, coordinated messaging and execution • Build and maintain trusted relationships, public affairs officers, trade associations, capitol hill communications, and third-party advocates to amplify key messages• Anticipate and prepare for political, legislative, and reputational risks, and develop proactive strategies to protect and advance the business • Partner with internal teams and external consultants to plan and execute high-impact advocacy and public affairs campaigns tied to business growth priorities • Build, lead, and develop a high-performing team, setting clear priorities, driving accountability, and fostering a culture of strategic execution and collaborationBasic Qualifications:• Deep understanding of the legislative process, defense policy, and the political landscape • Demonstrated ability to influence senior stakeholders and operate effectively in high-pressure, high-visibility environments • Experience leading integrated communications strategies tied to policy or business outcomes • Proven executive communications experience supporting senior leaders • Strong cross-functional leadership and stakeholder management skills • Proven leadership experience building, leading, and scaling high-performing teams aligned to business and policy objectives• Ability to obtain a security clearanceDesired Skills:• 10+ years of experience in strategic communications, government relations, or public affairs roles • Direct experience working on Capitol Hill (preferably HASC/SASC), the Department of War, or a senior federal agency • Exceptional writing, messaging, and storytelling skills, with the ability to simplify complex defense and policy topics • Strong executive presence and sound judgment in politically sensitive situations • Experience designing and executing advocacy or policy communications campaigns • Familiarity with aerospace and defense industry priorities and stakeholdersSecurity Clearance Statement: This position requires a government security clearance, you must be a US Citizen for consideration.Clearance Level: Top SecretOther Important Information You Should KnowExpression of Interest: By applying to this job, you are expressing interest in this position and could be considered for other career opportunities where similar skills and requirements have been identified as a match. Should this match be identified you may be contacted for this and future openings.Ability to Work Remotely: Onsite Full-time: The work associated with this position will be performed onsite at a designated Lockheed Martin facility.Work Schedules: Lockheed Martin supports a variety of alternate work schedules that provide additional flexibility to our employees. Schedules range from standard 40 hours over a five day work week while others may be condensed. These condensed schedules provide employees with additional time away from the office and are in addition to our Paid Time off benefits.Schedule for this Position: 4x10 hour day, 3 days off per weekLockheed Martin is an equal opportunity employer. Qualified candidates will be considered without regard to legally protected characteristics.The application window will close in 90 days; applicants are encouraged to apply within 5 - 30 days of the requisition posting date in order to receive optimal consideration.At Lockheed Martin, we use our passion for purposeful innovation to help keep people safe and solve the world's most complex challenges. Our people are some of the greatest minds in the industry and truly make Lockheed Martin a great place to work. With our employees as our priority, we provide diverse career opportunities designed to propel, develop, and boost agility. Our flexible schedules, competitive pay, and comprehensive benefits enable our employees to live a healthy, fulfilling life at and outside of work. We place an emphasis on empowering our employees by fostering an inclusive environment built upon integrity and corporate responsibility.If this sounds like a culture you connect with, you’re invited to apply for this role. Or, if you are unsure whether your experience aligns with the requirements of this position, we encourage you to search on Lockheed Martin Jobs, and apply for roles that align with your qualifications.Experience Level: Experienced ProfessionalBusiness Unit: CORPORATE HEADQUARTERSRelocation Available: PossibleCareer Area: Public RelationsType: Full-TimeShift: First