Director, Federal Affairs

Position Summary

Based in Washington, DC and reporting to the Head of U.S. Corporate Affairs at Alexion, AstraZeneca Rare Disease, the Director of Federal Affairs will play a lead role in developing and implementing a coordinated government affairs strategy at the federal level, focusing on enhancing the policy environment for rare disease drug development and patient access, including cell and gene therapies. The position will have a dotted reporting line to the Head of U.S. Federal Affairs, AstraZeneca.

As a key member of the Government Affairs & Policy (GA&P) team, the Director will work closely with State Government Affairs, Policy, Alliance Development, U.S. Communications, and Therapeutic Area leads to ensure patient access to rare disease therapies by advocating for and advancing policies relating to federal public programs (including Medicare and Medicaid), as well as understanding the implications for the commercial markets. Additional areas of focus may include intellectual property, public health programs, FDA regulatory policy, and trade.

Essential Duties And Job Functions

• Develop and execute strategic advocacy plans to shape public policy in support of rare disease treatment access and innovation.
• Engage with key lawmakers, federal agencies (e.g., FDA, NIH), and staff to monitor legislative activities and advocate for policies that advance strategic positions and initiatives.
• Establish and maintain strong relationships with stakeholders, including members of Congress, staff, industry partners, and advocacy groups.
• Draft advocacy materials, prepare briefings, testimonies, and presentations for internal and external stakeholders.
• Represent the company at industry associations, coalitions, public events, to advocate for Alexion priorities and leverage the work of these groups to support Alexion’s advocacy activities.
• Manage the AlexionPAC, including operations, strategy development, and compliance with federal reporting laws.
• Collaborate cross-functionally with internal teams, such as regulatory, medical, legal, and commercial, to coordinate policy positions and advocacy efforts.
• Working in conjunction with the Head of AstraZeneca’s Federal Government Affairs, direct and manage contract lobbyist in support of Alexion, AstraZeneca Rare Disease advocacy efforts.
• Manage Government Affairs & Policy intern, including hiring, onboarding, and daily management to direct the intern’s work activities.
  
  
  

Knowledge, Experience, And Skills

• Minimum of 8 years of experience in government affairs or public policy, preferably in the healthcare or pharmaceutical industry, with a proven track record of influencing legislation and policy at the federal level.
• Bachelor’s degree in Political Science, Public Policy, Law, or related field; Advanced degree preferred.
• The position requires a self-starter, strategic thinker, and team player able to exercise significant discretion and independent strategic discernment.
• Experience with Congressional Committees and/or federal agencies with jurisdiction over healthcare.
• Deep understanding of the legislative and regulatory processes relevant to pharmaceuticals and healthcare.
• Understanding of the approval, coverage, and reimbursement processes for prescription drugs, the 340B program, and intellectual property laws applicable to drugs and biologics.
• Multiple years working as a lobbyist, including experience with strategy development and execution.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to engage effectively with diverse stakeholders.
• PowerPoint skills to make effective presentations.
• Demonstrated ability to work independently and as part of a cross-functional team, managing multiple projects and deadlines effectively.
• Strong ethical standards and a commitment to compliance with relevant laws and regulations, particularly those governing political action committees.