U.S. State Government Affairs Manager

The application window is expected to close on: 10/05/2026

Location:
Washington DC, most preferred

Cisco is seeking a government affairs and public policy professional to join a global team as a U.S. State Government Affairs Manager. Reporting to the Vice President of State Government Affairs & Community Relations, this individual will help lead Cisco’s government engagements and public policy efforts across multiple states.

Cisco’s Government Affairs team represents the company with governments around the world to build relationships with key leaders, advance Cisco’s public policy goals, and educate governments about our industry. Government Affairs is involved in all key legislative, regulatory, and global issues that impact the technology industry.

We are comprised of government and public policy experts across two dozen countries who represent Cisco at the highest levels of government. The team has extensive experience in and out of government and are recognized leaders in the industry.

As a U.S. State Government Affairs Manager, you will develop and implement strategies to strengthen Cisco’s presence and influence with state government stakeholders and technology associations. In collaboration with internal teams—including People, Policy & Purpose (3P), Sales, Communications, Legal, and Product Development—you will drive innovative policy solutions that support Cisco’s business goals and mission to power an inclusive future for all.

• Advising and preparing senior leaders for engagements with state and local officials, ensuring alignment with Cisco’s business objectives and overall strategy
• Monitoring, analyzing, and reporting on relevant state legislative, regulatory, and budget developments
• Building trusted relationships with legislators, legislative staff, governors’ offices, and state agencies to strengthen Cisco’s public sector leadership
• Educating policymakers on Cisco’s technology and its role in AI, cybersecurity, broadband access, economic development, and public safety
• Advancing policy priorities aligned with purpose-driven initiatives
• Representing Cisco in state-level hearings, meetings, and industry coalitions
• Drafting and presenting testimony, position papers, and advocacy materials

• 7+ years of political and public policy experience in government, corporate government affairs, public affairs, trade associations, or public policy institutions
• Strong understanding of legislative and regulatory processes related to technology policy and familiarity with public policy issues affecting the technology industry
• Excellent political judgment and relationship-building skills
• Strong communication, writing, collaboration, and advocacy abilities with a demonstrated ability to build consensus across internal teams in pursuit of shared objectives
• Ability to travel throughout the U.S. and, on occasion, internationally

• Experience in state and local government relations, government affairs, public policy, public affairs, political campaigns, lobbying, outreach, or research
• Proven success leading policy or public affairs initiatives, such as lobbying or advocacy campaigns
• Extensive experience driving cross-functional collaboration with senior stakeholders and influencing decisions at all organizational levels
• Skilled in managing executives with exceptional leadership, communication, and collaboration skills
• Deep knowledge of technology policy and commitment to Cisco’s vision of a secure and accessible Internet
• Demonstrated ability to integrate public policy with business strategy and corporate development objectives

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