The Manager of Advocacy and Government Relations at the Society of Dermatology Physician Associates (SDPA) is responsible for executing the organization's advocacy and government relations efforts. This position focuses on advancing legislative and regulatory initiatives that support dermatology physician associates (PAs) and enhance patient care in dermatology. The manager will serve as the primary liaison between the SDPA, government entities, and stakeholders to influence policy development and advocate for the interests of dermatology PAs.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Advocacy and Policy Development:
   • Serve as the primary staff liaison to SDPA’s Government Affairs & Advocacy Committee.
   • Work with committee leadership to craft and monitor annual federal advocacy agenda.
   • Work with state affiliates and others to develop “State Legislation to Watch” annually to identify key state policy initiatives affecting DermPAs^TM.
   • Monitor and analyze federal and state legislative and regulatory developments that impact dermatology and healthcare policy.
   • Work closely with lobbyists, coalitions, and legislative staff to promote policies favorable to dermatology PAs and patient care.
   • Advocate for issues such as scope of practice, reimbursement, and healthcare access.

2. Government Relations:
   • Build and maintain relationships with key legislators, regulatory agencies and other government officials.
   • Represent SDPA in meetings, hearings, and policy discussions related to dermatology and healthcare.
   • Collaborate with other healthcare associations and advocacy groups to strengthen dermatology PA interests in policymaking, including SDPA’s patient advocacy groups.

3. Membership and Stakeholder Engagement:
   • Educate and mobilize SDPA members to participate in grassroots advocacy initiatives.
   • Provide members with resources and tools for effective engagement with legislators and policymakers.
   • Organize advocacy events, including virtual campaigns, to elevate the profile of dermatology PAs.

4. Communication and Representation:
   • Develop clear and effective communication strategies to update members on advocacy initiatives and policy changes.
   • Draft position statements, letters, and testimony to represent SDPA’s stance on key issues.

5. Collaboration and Strategy:
   • Partner with educational and public relations departments to create campaigns that raise awareness of advocacy efforts.
   • Contribute to the overall growth of the SDPA’s advocacy presence within the dermatology community.

6. Other:
   • As the only staff person regularly in the Washington, DC office, this person will be responsible for minor office management including but not limited to:
     • Processing mail
     • Receiving packages
     • Finalizing conference shipments
     • Office management and coordination with the office building
   • Other duties as assigned based on organizational need and government relations and advocacy priorities.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in political science, public policy, or a related field (Master's degree preferred).
• 3-5 years of experience in advocacy, government relations, or public policy, preferably in the healthcare or dermatology field.
• Strong understanding of legislative and regulatory processes at both the federal and state levels.
• Proven track record of successful advocacy campaigns and policy influence.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to draft policy briefs, position statements, and testimony.
• Strong relationship-building skills with the ability to work effectively with government officials, coalitions, and stakeholders.

Key Competencies & Personal Attributes:

• Strategic thinking and policy analysis.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Leadership and organizational skills.
• Strong advocacy, negotiation, and public speaking abilities.
• Passion for the mission and values of the Society of Dermatology Physician Associates.
• Ability to work virtually from a home office, as required.
• Flexibility and the ability to work across time zones is essential.
• Travel to conferences and other meetings, as required.
• Enjoys and thrives in team collaborative environment.