Cato Institute · 10 hours ago
Director of Government Affairs (International)
Washington, DC
Full-time
Hybrid
Director/Executive
$115K/yr - $150K/yr
7+ years expCato Institute is a public policy research organization dedicated to individual liberty and limited government. They are seeking a Director of Government Affairs to focus on foreign policy and trade issues, building relationships with policymakers and executing engagement strategies for a portfolio of relevant policy areas.
Non Profit
No H1B
U.S. Citizen Only
Responsibilities
Build and maintain relationships with policymakers on Capitol Hill, with a special emphasis on the House and Senate Committees on Armed Services and Foreign Relations/Affairs, and within the Executive Branch
Identify, create, and assist with opportunities for Cato scholars to provide testimonies, statements for the record, and other high-impact opportunities
Track and advise Cato scholars and staff on ongoing and emerging dynamics on Capitol Hill and within the Administration to ensure Cato’s maximum impact on policy
Devise, recommend, and execute engagement strategies (in coordination with relevant Cato policy staff) for the issue portfolio to positively influence the policy debate
Oversee distribution of Cato scholarship to Capitol Hill and Administration audiences
Work with existing federal affairs staff to ensure Cato-wide coordination of the Institute’s efforts
Exercise exceptional judgment to protect and enhance Cato’s reputation for excellence, integrity, and dedication to principle
Qualification
Required
Bachelor's degree and/or work experience commensurate with a degree in a relevant field
At least 7 to 10 years of experience on Capitol Hill or the Administration, working in a legislative position or a government affairs department for a think tank, association, or in the for-profit sector
Must have professional relationships with federal policymakers, the Administration, and other think tanks
Comprehensive understanding of Congressional rules, procedures, and operations
A demonstrated appreciation for Cato's mission and principles
A willingness to build a bipartisan network, consisting of progressive and conservative policymakers, to advance principled policy solutions
Excellent interpersonal skills; strong oral and written communication skills
Attention to detail and strong analytical and problem-solving skills
Project management experience, including developing work plans, managing and executing multiple concurrent efforts, and effectively managing data, communication, and work products
Benefits
Medical, dental, and vision insurance
Employer contribution to a Health Savings Account (HSA)
Generous vacation and sick days
Paid parental leave
Employer-provided life and disability insurance
401(k) employer match
Transit/Parking benefits
Pet discount plan
Company
Cato Institute
Promoting an American public policy based on individual liberty, limited government, free markets and peaceful international relations.
51-200 employees
Funding
Current Stage
Growth StageLeadership Team
Emily Ekins
Vice President and Director of Polling
Recent News
Business Insider
2025-10-13
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