Manager, External Affairs

Overview

Manager, External Affairs – Philip Morris International (PMI) – is responsible for developing and implementing government relations and public policy strategies in key West/Southwest states. The role reports to the West/Southwest Regional Director and manages a portfolio of issues at both the state and local level, representing PMI to elected officials, regulatory bodies, trade associations and other stakeholders.

• Build and maintain relationships with key stakeholders in the West/Southwest region, including State Legislators, Governors, Attorneys General, executive branch officials, independent agencies and local officials.
• Maintain a comprehensive understanding of legislation, emerging issues and industry trends, providing timely analysis to internal stakeholders.
• Manage legislative and regulatory tracking systems across all Southwest and West states and report to Regional Directors.
• Monitor and evaluate PMI’s participation in third‑party organizations, coalitions and memberships, making recommendations based on ROI analysis.
• Lead or support cross‑state initiatives, partnership development, legislative monitoring and program execution in collaboration with internal and external stakeholders.
• Develop and implement engagement frameworks for issues unique to western states, balancing priorities between regions and communicating transparently with Regional Directors.
• Coordinate policy communications, including executive briefing memos, white papers, presentations and agency comment letters.
• Deploy grassroots lobbying tactics and leverage national and local political organizations to support PMI’s public policy objectives.
• Advocate for smoke‑free policies using traditional and innovative strategies.
• Organize and execute educational and scientific engagement events for key stakeholders and officials.
• Perform other administrative tasks to support the department as needed.

• 5+ years of government, political, policy, legislative or campaign experience in West/Southwestern states.
• Strong understanding of the state policy making process and government relations.
• Proven track record of relationship building with government officials and stakeholders.
• Press, media relations, public affairs or communications experience is a plus.
• Willingness to travel within the region up to 50% of the time.
• Self‑starter and project leader with excellent communication, presentation and public speaking skills.
• Excellent organizational, planning, analytical and implementation abilities.

$140,250 – $187,000

• Freedom to define your future and initiative; empowerment to take risks and experiment.
• Inclusive and diverse culture where every contribution is respected.
• Global career opportunities to develop skills and advance professionally.
• Pride in delivering the promise of a smoke‑free future.

PMI is an Equal Opportunity Employer. PMI is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, veteran status, age, sexual orientation or any other protected status in accordance with federal and state law.

Philip Morris International is leading a transformation in the tobacco industry to create a smoke‑free future. PMI’s portfolio includes heat‑not‑burn, vapour and nicotine‑containing products that are designed to be a better alternative to traditional cigarettes. The company’s global reach, scientific capabilities and commitment to innovation support its mission to replace cigarettes with safer, smoke‑free products for adults who would otherwise continue to smoke.