Director, Government Relations & Public Policy
Battelle
Summary
The Director, Government Relations & Public Policy supports the development and execution of Battelle's federal government relations and public policy strategies. Reporting to the Vice President, Government Affairs, the Director advances Battelle priorities through engagement with Congress, federal agencies, coalitions, and other stakeholders. The role provides policy analysis, supports legislative and appropriations strategies, and coordinates advocacy efforts across Battelle business sectors and affiliated organizations.
Job description
Job Summary
The Director, Government Relations & Public Policy supports the development and execution of Battelle's federal government relations and public policy strategies. Reporting to the Vice President, Government Affairs, the Director advances Battelle priorities through engagement with Congress, federal agencies, coalitions, and other stakeholders. The role provides policy analysis, supports legislative and appropriations strategies, and coordinates advocacy efforts across Battelle business sectors and affiliated organizations.
Responsibilities
- Support development and implementation of federal government relations and public policy strategies aligned with Battelle priorities.
- Manage relationships with Members of Congress, congressional staff, committee staff, federal agencies, and external stakeholders.
- Monitor, analyze, and communicate legislative, regulatory, authorization, and appropriations developments affecting Battelle programs and growth opportunities.
- Provide policy analysis and recommendations to the Vice President, Government Affairs and business leaders.
- Develop briefing materials, talking points, congressional engagement plans, stakeholder analyses, and policy memoranda.
- Support appropriations and authorization strategies for assigned business sectors and affiliates.
- Coordinate advocacy activities across Battelle sectors and functions to ensure consistent messaging and engagement.
- Represent Battelle in meetings, conferences, coalitions, and public policy organizations as assigned.
- Support engagement with federal agencies regarding budget priorities, research initiatives, and strategic programs.
- Maintain awareness of emerging federal policy issues and identify opportunities and risks impacting Battelle.
Key Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree required; advanced degree preferred.
- 8-12+ years of experience in government relations, congressional affairs, public policy, federal agencies, or related fields.
- Strong knowledge of the federal legislative process, appropriations, authorizations, and policymaking.
- Demonstrated experience engaging congressional offices, committees, federal agencies, and external stakeholders.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
- Ability to synthesize complex policy issues and translate them into actionable recommendations.
- Ability to work collaboratively across diverse business and technical organizations.
- Experience supporting defense, intelligence, homeland security, or other national security-related research and development programs is desirable, but not required.
- Eligibility to obtain and maintain any required security clearance.
Requirements
- Bachelor's degree required; advanced degree preferred
- 8-12+ years of experience in government relations, congressional affairs, public policy, federal agencies, or related fields
- Strong knowledge of the federal legislative process, appropriations, authorizations, and policymaking
- Demonstrated experience engaging congressional offices, committees, federal agencies, and external stakeholders
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills
- Ability to synthesize complex policy issues and translate them into actionable recommendations
- Ability to work collaboratively across diverse business and technical organizations
- Experience supporting defense, intelligence, homeland security, or other national security-related research and development programs is desirable, but not required
- Eligibility to obtain and maintain any required security clearance
Benefits
- Compressed Work Schedule
- Hybrid Work Arrangement
- Paid Time Off
- Medical, Dental & Vision
- Wellness Incentives
- Gender-Affirming Care
- Family Formation Support
- 401(k) Matching
- Tuition Assistance
Company overview
Battelle is a leading nonprofit research and development organization headquartered in Columbus, Ohio, with a rich history dating back to 1929. As one of the world's largest independent research institutions, Battelle conducts scientific research and technology development across multiple sectors including national security, health and life sciences, energy, and environmental sustainability. The organization manages numerous national laboratories for the U.S. Department of Energy, including Pacific Northwest National Laboratory, and provides critical research services to government agencies, commercial clients, and academic institutions. Battelle's work spans from fundamental scientific discovery to applied technology development, with significant contributions in areas such as biomedical research, materials science, cybersecurity, and advanced manufacturing. The organization plays a vital role in translating scientific discoveries into practical applications that address complex global challenges while maintaining a strong commitment to public service and scientific integrity.