Senior Vice President, Policy and Government Affairs, National Health Council

Location: This position is located in Washington, DC. The National Health Council supports a hybrid workplace. Employees must be able and willing to work on site at least two days per week, pending federal and local health authority guidance.
Reports to: Chief Executive Officer
Wage Category: $175,000 Plus

Created by and for patient organizations over 100 years ago, the National Health Council brings diverse organizations together to forge consensus and drive patient-centered health policy. We promote increased access to affordable, high-value, sustainable health care. Made up of more than 180 national health-related organizations and businesses, the NHC’s core membership includes the nation’s leading patient organizations. Other members include health-related associations and nonprofit organizations including the provider, research, and family caregiver communities; and businesses representing biopharmaceutical, device, diagnostic, generic drug, and payer organizations.

The Senior Vice President (SVP) of Policy and Government Affairs organizes the work, and is responsible for the effectiveness, of the NHC Policy Department. The portfolio includes comprehensive legislative and regulatory engagement with Congress and the Executive Branch. The SVP provides strategic thought leadership on policy positions and tactics, supports policy-related research and program goals, leads policy guidance and consultation with NHC membership, and is accountable for the NHC’s policy and advocacy operations and goals for the benefit of NHC members and the patient community. The SVP is a member of the Executive Leadership Team and contributes to the overall direction and impact of the organization in all its functions.

Principal Duties And Responsibilities

  • Develop and implement the approved government relations workplan and budget.
    • Oversee the development, implementation, and achievement of policy and policy-related goals in 3-year Strategic Plan
    • Develop education and advocacy strategies that inform, influence, motivate, and involve members.
    • Oversee the provision of government affairs technical assistance to members and partners.
    • Identify and support policy-related initiatives across NHC functions, including Equity, Research and Programs
  • Lead the preparation and dissemination of reports, position papers, testimony, and other materials addressing key events and issues.
  • Represent the organization’s interests on Capitol Hill and the Executive Branch.
  • Serve as a spokesperson for the organization in media and external speaking engagements.
  • Serve on public and private external bodies such as coalitions, boards, and steering committees.
  • Serve as staff lead for the policy making process and other activities conducted by the Board of Directors and its Policy Committee.
  • Oversee content development for monthly action team meetings, annual Washington Representatives Retreat, and periodic policy briefings or member convenings.
  • Manage vendor contracts to increase the impact and productivity of the NHC policy portfolio.
  • Supervise and support members of the Policy Team.
  • Advise the CEO and Executive Leadership Team on key policy issues and actions.

Qualifications

  • Knowledge of and experience with health care policy.
  • Ability to register as a federal lobbyist.
  • Minimum of 10 years of experience in government relations and/or public policy; non-profit patient health sector experience preferred.
  • Excellent interpersonal, verbal, and written communication skills.
  • Significant experience with public speaking.
  • Experience managing both seasoned professionals and those new to the workforce, or new to the content area of the team
  • Ability to delegate effectively and ensure quality and quantity of work from a team in a timely manner
  • Strong organizational skills.
  • Demonstrated track record of leadership decision-making, problem-solving, collaboration and the ability to pivot when the situation requires it.
  • Experience drafting and/or analyzing/advancing health care legislation and/or regulation.
  • Superior interpersonal, presentation, and written and verbal communication skills.
  • Strong organizational and resource management skills, including the ability to prioritize and handle multiple simultaneous priorities.

Education: Bachelor’s degree in political science, public policy, law or a related field.

More Information

The NHC offers a competitive benefits package, including health, vision, and dental benefits with premiums fully paid by the organization.

APPLICATION PROCESS:

Applicants should submit the following items to NHCPositions@nhcouncil.org with the subject “SVP, Policy & Government Affairs”:

  • Cover letter describing the applicant’s experience and interests in the National Health Council’s mission and priorities.
  • Resume
  • List of three references, with name, title, organization, email address and telephone number

Mission:
The mission of the National Health Council is to provide a united voice for people with chronic diseases and disabilities.

Values:

Integrity – Patient Focused – Forward Thinking Collaboration – Transparency – Diversity & Inclusion