The American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA), the national not-for-profit association established in 1863 & representing over 97,000 veterinarians working in private and corporate practice, government, industry, academia, and uniformed services, is seeking an Assistant Director for our Government Relations Division (GRD) located in Washington, D.C.  The GRD advocates the Association’s policies & positions on federal legislative & regulatory issues that affect animal & human health & the veterinary profession.  The mission of the Association is to lead the profession by advocating for our members and advancing the science and practice of veterinary medicine to improve animal and human health.

Reporting to the GRD Director, the Assistant Director will be responsible for advocating on behalf of the veterinary profession in Washington, D.C.  As a registered federal lobbyist, the assistant director will spend approximately 60-80% of their time on Capitol Hill advancing the policies of the AVMA. In addition, the Assistant Director will establish & maintain communication networks between AVMA members & congressional staff, pertinent regulatory agencies, state veterinary medical associations/societies, allied veterinary groups, & advocacy groups to advance the AVMA’s Legislative Agenda.  The Assistant Director will be primarily responsible for issues in the following areas:

• Animal Health & Research
• Pharmaceuticals & Veterinary Biologics
• Farm Bill
• Public Health
• Food Safety
• Biotechnology
• Bio- & Agro-terrorism
• Emergency Response
• Homeland Security
• One Health

Deadline for application is 10/14/21.  Send resume with salary requirements to: apply@avma.org. 

About the AVMA:

 Headquartered in Schaumburg, IL, with a Government Relations Division in Washington, D.C., the AVMA is structured to work for its members, and acts as a collective voice for its membership and for the profession and provides a number of benefits to its members, including information resources, state and federal advocacy, opportunities to address issues and affect policy that govern the profession and practice of veterinary medicine, continuing education opportunities, quality publications, and discounts on personal and professional products, programs and services.  The work of the AVMA is carried out by a dedicated staff of over 160.  The organization is governed by an 18-member Board of Directors and has a $40M+ annual operating budget. 

Visit https://www.avma.org/AVMAcareers

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BS/BA degree required, preferably in animal science, political science, or a related field; DVM/VMD or advanced degree a plus. Must have related work experience in lobbying, public policy, or association work with demonstrated knowledge of, or experience with, the federal legislative/regulatory process including 3-5 years of related work experience in lobbying, public policy, or association. Excellent interpersonal as well as verbal & written communication skills are required with the ability to synthesize information and write clearly, logically and persuasively for a variety of audiences. 10% - 15% travel.