Manager, Government Relations

Manager, Government Relations Location: Arlington, VA, US, 22202 Job ID:115218 Leonardo DRS, Inc. is an innovative and agile provider of advanced defense technology to U.S. national security customers and allies around the world. We specialize in the design, development and manufacture of advanced sensing, network computing, force protection, and electric power and propulsion, and other leading mission-critical technologies. Our innovative people are leading the way in developing disruptive technologies for autonomous, dynamic, interconnected, and multi-domain capabilities to defend against new and emerging threats. For more information and to learn more about our full range of capabilities, visit Position Summary The Manager, Government Relations serves as a registered lobbyist and advisor supporting the company's engagement with the U.S. Congress, executive branch agencies, and relevant state/local governments. This role advances the company's legislative and regulatory priorities through education and advocacy with government stakeholders while ensuring full compliance with all federal and state lobbying disclosure and ethics laws. The position works closely with Business Development, Program Management, Legal, Compliance, and Communications to align government engagement with corporate strategy. Reports to: SVP, Government Relations Location: Arlington, VA (position is hybrid, in office on Tues/Wed/Thurs) Travel: 25–40% (Capitol Hill, agency offices, state capitals, industry events) Key Responsibilities Legislative & Regulatory Advocacy Develop and execute advocacy strategies to advance company positions on defense authorization/appropriations bills (NDAA, defense appropriations) and relevant regulatory matters. Build and maintain relationships with Members of Congress, congressional staff, committee staff (e.g., House/Senate Armed Services, Appropriations), and executive branch officials (DoW, service branches, DHS, State Department, etc.). Monitor, analyze, and report on legislative and regulatory developments affecting company programs, contracts, and the broader defense/industrial base. Draft authorization and appropriations requests, position papers, one-pagers, leave-behinds, and talking points for executives and lobbying activities. Support congressional site visits, facility tours, and engagement events for elected officials and staff. Lobbying Compliance & Registration Register and file as a lobbyist under the Lobbying Disclosure Act (LDA); maintain accurate, and timely LD-203 semi-annual federal filings. Track and comply with applicable state lobbying registration and reporting requirements in jurisdictions where the company engages. Monitor gift, meal, and travel rules (House/Senate ethics rules, executive branch ethics regulations) for all company personnel engaging with government officials. Maintain recordkeeping systems for lobbying contacts, expenditures, and disclosures; support internal and external audits. PAC & Political Engagement (if applicable) Support administration of the company/employee political action committee (PAC), including compliance with FEC regulations, solicitation rules, and contribution tracking. Coordinate approved political engagement activities (fundraisers, campaign events) consistent with company policy and legal guidance. Coalition Building & Stakeholder Engagement Represent the company in industry associations (e.g., NDIA, AIA, state defense/industry coalitions) and coalition advocacy efforts. Coordinate with trade associations and coalition partners on shared legislative priorities. Represent the company at policy Think Tank events and activities (e.g., CSIS). Internal Coordination & Reporting Brief Business Development and Program teams on legislative/regulatory risks and opportunities. Prepare regular government relations activity reports, budget trackers, and ROI/impact summaries for leadership. Coordinate messaging with Corporate Communications to ensure consistency across public policy, media, and government-facing communications. Required Qualifications Bachelor's degree in Political Science, Public Policy, Government Affairs, Communications, or related field (advanced degree a plus). 2-4 years of experience in Congress, lobbying, legislative affairs, or a related role — ideally within the defense, aerospace, or federal contracting sector. Working knowledge of the federal legislative and appropriations/authorization process (NDAA cycle, defense appropriations). Demonstrated understanding of the Lobbying Disclosure Act, congressional ethics rules, and federal/state disclosure requirements. Established relationships with congressional offices, committee staff, and/or relevant executive branch agencies preferred. Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including experience drafting policy documents, authorization/appropriations requests, and briefing materials. Ability to obtain and maintain any required security clearance. Preferred Qualifications Prior experience on Capitol Hill, in a federal agency, or with a trade association/lobbying firm. Existing LDA registration/reporting experience. Familiarity with defense acquisition processes (FAR/DFARS) and the broader national security policy landscape. Experience supporting a corporate PAC Core Competencies Political acumen — ability to understand legislative dynamics and build and maintain bipartisan relationships. Compliance discipline — meticulous with filings, disclosures, and ethics rules. Strategic communication — able to translate technical/programmatic content into policy-relevant messaging. Cross-functional collaboration — works fluidly with Legal, Compliance, BD, Programs, and Communications. Discretion and judgment — handles sensitive, high-visibility engagements professionally. Working Conditions On-site presence in Washington, D.C. metro area required. Frequent travel to Capitol Hill, agency offices, and occasional state/local travel. May require attendance at evening/weekend events (receptions, PAC related events, conferences). Compliance Note This role requires ongoing compliance training on the Lobbying Disclosure Act, gift/ethics rules, FCPA (if applicable), and company code of conduct. All lobbying activities must be pre-cleared and logged per corporate policy. The salary range for this position is $105,000.00/year- $130,000.00. This range reflects the good faith estimate of pay the employer is willing to offer at the time of posting. Several factors can influence the pay scale, including but not limited to: Federal contract labor categories and contract wage rates, collective bargaining agreements, geographic location, business considerations, scope, and responsibilities of the position, local or other applicable market conditions, and internal equity. Other factors include the candidate’s qualifications such as prior work experience, specific skills and competencies, education/training, and certifications. In addition to base pay, employees may be eligible for: annual performance-based bonuses, equity awards, and overtime pay (for non-exempt employees as applicable. Our benefits package includes comprehensive health insurance (medical, dental, vision), employer matching 401(k) retirement plan, paid time off including vacation, holidays, and sick leave (including ant state-mandated paid sick leave), parental leave benefits, tuition reimbursement, professional development support, and life and disability insurance coverage. Taking care of our people is a top priority at Leonardo DRS. We are proud to offer competitive salaries and comprehensive benefits, including medical, dental, and vision coverage, a company contribution to a health savings account, telemedicine, life and disability insurance, legal insurance, and a 401(k) savings plan. We champion wellness programs that focus on physical, emotional, and financial well-being. We develop our talent by offering programs and activities to support career-growth, professional development, and skill enhancement. And we understand there is more to life than work, and the importance of offering flexible work schedules with our 9/80 program, competitive vacation, health/emergency leave, paid parental leave, and community service hours. *Some employees are eligible for limited benefits only Leonardo DRS, Inc. and its subsidiaries provide equal opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibit discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws. Our Vision. To be the leading mid-tier defense technology company in the U.S. Our Values. The Leonardo DRS culture is defined by our Core Values and Principles: Integrity Agility Excellence Customer Focus Community & Respect Innovation We strive to uphold them in all aspects of our business practices to inspire our employees and provide outstanding support for our customers. #J-18808-Ljbffr Leonardo DRS