Vice President of Government Affairs

The Bellevue Chamber is one of the most influential and respected voices on public policy and government affairs in the Puget Sound region. Representing hundreds of employers and tens of thousands of jobs, we are at the forefront of shaping a vibrant, competitive, and sustainable business environment for our community.

In recent years, the Chamber has seen remarkable growth—in budget, staff, issue scope, and influence. Today, it stands as a leading force in public policy across industries and throughout the region, extending its impact even to statewide issues.

While we host a wide array of events, networking opportunities, small business programs, and economic development initiatives, the Chamber is—by definition—an advocacy-first organization
. Our mission is simple yet powerful:
to influence public policy that drives a thriving economy and enhances quality of life
. Every program, partnership, and initiative aligns with this purpose—making the Vice President of Government and Advocacy one of the most consequential and visible roles within our organization.

The Vice President of Government Affairs is a full-time, on-site leadership position based in Bellevue, WA
. This senior executive will serve as the Chamber’s chief strategist and spokesperson on policy and advocacy matters, leading efforts to advance the interests of Eastside employers and the regional business community.

In this high-impact role, you will:

• Shape and execute the Chamber’s public policy agenda;
• Represent the business community in government and civic forums;
• Build coalitions and relationships that move the needle on major economic and community issues; and
• Lead a talented advocacy team working at the local, state, and federal levels.

This position offers a unique opportunity to influence decisions that define the future of the Puget Sound region
—from housing and transportation to workforce development, innovation, and sustainability.

• Lead all public affairs and advocacy initiatives, including government relations, policy development, and political engagement.
• Manage a high‑performing team of policy professionals, consultants, and interns—including the Chamber’s Olympia‑based state lobbyist and D.C.
  
  -based federal lobbyist.
• Set and drive annual advocacy goals and success metrics in partnership with the President & CEO, Board of Directors, and policy committees.
• Oversee the Chamber’s policy committees (Policy Council, PLUSH—Permitting, Land Use, Sustainability, Housing—Transportation, East King Chambers Coalition, and others) to ensure meaningful engagement and outcomes.
• Direct the Chamber’s political action committee, the Eastside Business Alliance
  , overseeing fundraising, endorsements, compliance, and voter outreach efforts.

• Research and craft policy memos, position statements, and testimony that reflect the Chamber’s adopted priorities.
• Lead the development of local, state, and federal legislative agendas and coordinate with business coalitions across the region and state.
• Track and analyze emerging policy issues, bills, and regulations that impact Eastside employers.
• Convene and lead stakeholder working groups to align advocacy strategies and priorities.

• Build and maintain strong, trusted relationships with elected officials, agency leaders, and key stakeholders at every level of government.
• Represent the Chamber in regional advocacy groups and task forces, ensuring the Eastside business voice is heard.
• Serve as the Chamber’s liaison to the City of Bellevue, providing testimony and representation before City Council and commissions.
• Organize and lead major advocacy trips and events, including the annual Washington, D.C. Fly‑In and “Chamber Day” in Olympia.

• Partner with the Chamber’s communications team to elevate the organization’s advocacy profile through media outreach, op‑eds, newsletters, and digital storytelling.
• Engage directly with members—both established employers and emerging innovators—to build support around shared policy goals.
• Prepare and deliver briefings, presentations, and…