Director Government and Community Relations

As the Director of Government & Community Relations, you will develop and manage relationships with federal, state, and local officials to promote the mission and strategic objectives of The Jackson Laboratory (JAX). You will shape and monitor legislation, policies, and regulations affecting the Laboratory, and serve as liaison to civic organizations, chambers of commerce, trade groups, and community stakeholders. In this role you will identify opportunities for collaboration and support organizational initiatives through targeted advocacy and community engagement, and serve as JAX's lead government affairs representative in New York.

Establish and maintain strong relationships with state, federal, and local officials under the direction of senior leadership. Shape legislative and policy agendas at the local, state, and national levels (consistent with nonprofit limitations), focusing on employee relations, nonprofit policy, regulatory affairs, and legislation related to research, biotechnology, and health care. Serve as the organization's liaison to civic organizations, chambers of commerce, trade groups, and community groups, representing JAX across the state.

Identify opportunities for colleagues to advance programs and organizational objectives through community connections and collaborative strategies. Develop and communicate government affairs strategies with senior leadership, internal stakeholders, and aligned external organizations. Serve as JAX's lead government affairs representative in New York, developing and coordinating federal, state, and local strategies that advance organizational, scientific, policy, and funding priorities. Monitor and assess legislative, regulatory, budgetary, and policy developments affecting biomedical research and nonprofit research institutions, and advise senior and executive leadership on emerging risks, opportunities, and organizational impact.

Develop and execute advocacy, policy, and stakeholder engagement strategies, building strategic relationships with government officials, agencies, community leaders, and external partners. Identify and advance state, local, and federal funding opportunities, including appropriations, capital investments, economic development initiatives, grants, and other public‑sector funding aligned with organizational priorities. Represent and strengthen JAX's presence within New York's life sciences, policy, business, philanthropic, and advocacy communities by developing strategic partnerships, facilitating executive engagement, and advancing initiatives that support research, workforce, and economic competitiveness.

Support senior leadership on initiatives as needed and directed.

Bachelor's degree (a combination of education and experience may be considered). Master's degree is preferred. 6+ years of experience in government relations, public affairs, or policy advocacy. 8+ years preferred. 6+ years of supervisory experience. 8+ years preferred. Knowledge of legislative and regulatory processes relevant to biomedical research and nonprofit operations. Demonstrated success building relationships with government officials and community organizations.

Ability to translate organizational priorities into effective advocacy strategies, and to navigate complex policy landscapes while anticipating political implications and advising leadership on emerging risks and opportunities. Polished strategic communication skills, delivering clear, compelling messages tailored to diverse audiences and aligned with organizational priorities. Excellent stakeholder and community engagement skills to build trust with community partners, government entities, and advocacy groups through…