Director, Federal Public Policy and Government Relations

Position: Director, Federal Public Policy and Government Relations

Reports to: Associate Vice President of Federal Public Policy Position Status: Full-Time, Exempt Location: Hybrid - Proximity to Washington, DC required

DESCRIPTION:

The Parkinson’s Foundation makes life better for people with Parkinson’s disease (PD) by improving care and advancing research toward a cure. For over half a century, we have made tangible progress in our three mission pillars: research, care, and education. Today, we continue to:

• Fund game-changing research on treatment and care.
• Support the delivery of high-quality care to people living with Parkinson’s.
• Serve as the trusted and go-to source for information and resources on Parkinson’s disease.
• Convene the best minds from every corner of the global Parkinson’s community to develop research and clinical approaches that enhance care and move us closer to a cure.
• Advance policy changes around research, care, education and prevention.

As an evidence-based organization, everything we do is informed by facts, careful planning and involvement of our PD community members. We seek to build on our 2026-2029 Strategic Plan to achieve even greater results by 2030.

PRIMARY ROLE: The Parkinson’s Foundation is seeking a strategic and driven Director to advance the Foundation’s federal public policy efforts. As a key member of the growing Public Policy team, this individual will help shape the Foundation’s public policy work in Congress and the Executive Branch, and work with the policy team to develop the Foundation’s federal public policy agenda. This includes legislative tracking, supporting advocacy campaigns, engaging with policymakers and partners, conducting policy-related research and analysis, and participating in coalition meetings to ensure the Foundation's voice is heard in policy discussions. The individual will help identify and influence legislative and regulatory opportunities for the Foundation, both in DC and in-district advocacy. This role requires a proactive and collaborative professional with a deep understanding of government relations, health policy, and public policy strategy.

Organizational Overview

RESPONSIBILITIES

Responsibilities include, but are not limited to the following:

• Policy Development and Research: Support development and advancement of federal policy priorities that align with organizational goals. Analyze legislation, regulations, judicial rulings, and emerging issues to assess risks and opportunities. Conduct research to inform policy positions and strategic decisions.
• Stakeholder Engagement: Cultivate and maintain relationships with key stakeholders, including Federal policymakers, government officials, industry associations, and advocacy groups working with other members of policy team to leverage existing relationships and expand Foundation’s network.
• Advocacy and Influence: Support development and execution of strategies to influence federal policy outcomes, working to advance the organization's interests including direct lobbying, coalition-building, in-district event planning and execution, public education, and other advocacy strategies.
• Communication and Representation: Clearly communicate policy positions to internal and external audiences. Draft reports, newsletters, briefings, testimony, public comments and other policy communications.

EXPERIENCE/SKILLS REQUIRED

• 4+ years of experience in healthcare policy, advocacy, or government relations, including work on Capitol Hill.
• Bachelor’s degree.
• Demonstrated ability to analyze complex policy issues and develop effective policy and advocacy strategies.
• Strong interpersonal skills with experience building partnerships across sectors. Track record of managing multiple projects and meeting deadlines.
• Deep understanding of Federal health policy landscapes and government/legislative processes.
• Experience working with policymakers, government officials, and other stakeholders to influence policy outcomes.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to travel as needed for in-state events, advocacy meetings, or conferences.
• Demonstrated commitment to the organizational values of excellence, teamwork, collaboration, integrity, positivity, dedication and responsiveness.

COMPENSATION

Salary for this position is competitive and depends on prior experience. In addition, a comprehensive benefits package is included. The salary range for this position is $85,000 to $100,000. This salary range reflects current market data and is aligned with the responsibilities and qualifications required for this role. Final compensation will be determined based on a candidate’s skills, experience, and alignment with organizational needs.

HOW TO APPLY:

Please submit a resume, cover letter, and salary requirement to employment@parkinson.org. Please indicate, “Director, Federal Public Policy and Government Relations” in the subject line. Resumes without a cover letter and salary requirements will not be considered. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis; those submitted by May 4, 2026, will receive priority review. No phone calls please.

The Parkinson’s Foundation is an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion in our culture and in our work on behalf of people with Parkinson's disease.