Director Federal Government Relations

About us

Every day we deliver safe and secure energy to homes, communities, and businesses. We are there when people need us the most. We connect people to the energy they need for the lives they live. The pace of change in society and our industry is accelerating and our expertise and track record puts us in an unparalleled position to shape the sustainable future of our industry. To be successful we must anticipate the needs of our customers, reducing the cost of energy delivery today and pioneering the flexible energy systems of tomorrow. This requires us to deliver on our promises and always look for new opportunities to grow, both ourselves and our business.

At National Grid, we aim to create an environment where everyone is welcomed for who they are and where our differences are celebrated. We utilize the insights of our employees that come from all different cultures, backgrounds, and beliefs to better serve our customers and communities.

National Grid is hiring a Director, Federal Government Affairs. This hybrid role is located in our Washington, DC office. 

Job Purpose

The Director, Federal Government Affairs will be responsible for National Grid’s engagement in Washington, DC with federal policy makers on a key portfolio of issues and serve as a primary contact for members of the federal delegations in National Grid’s service territories. This role reports to the Vice President of US Government Affairs.

The position leads the development and implementation of advocacy strategies to engage federal elected officials, regulatory bodies, and other key stakeholders on a variety of issues related to energy, electric infrastructure, natural gas, climate policy, grant and loan funding, environmental policy and permitting, and others. The Director, Federal Government Affairs will advocate for policies that support National Grid’s objectives, enhance the company’s reputation, and ensure effective communication of the organization’s positions on critical issues within their portfolio.

Key Accountabilities

• Develop and execute a comprehensive government affairs strategy for portfolio issues that aligns with National Grid’s corporate objectives and enhances the company’s influence.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with key government officials, administration agencies and departments, and industry stakeholders to advocate for National Grid’s interests and policy positions.
• Monitor and analyse federal legislative and regulatory developments, providing timely updates and strategic insights to senior leadership and relevant teams.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, across the Public Affairs & Policy function, as well as across Communications, Stakeholder Engagement, Regulation, legal, finance, among others to ensure alignment on government affairs initiatives and messaging.
• Develop coordinated advocacy strategies in partnership with Communications and Stakeholder Engagement.
• Represent National Grid at government meetings, public hearings, and industry forums, effectively communicating the company’s positions and advocating for favourable policies.
• Lead efforts to identify and address emerging issues and opportunities in government affairs, developing proactive strategies to mitigate risks and enhance engagement.
• Prepare reports and presentations for senior leadership, summarizing government affairs activities, outcomes, and recommendations for action.
• Support the development of advocacy materials and communication strategies that effectively convey National Grid’s policy positions to government stakeholders.
• Foster a culture of collaboration and knowledge sharing within the government affairs team and across the organization to enhance the effectiveness of advocacy efforts.
• Stay informed about industry trends, regulatory changes, and best practices in government affairs to inform National Grid’s strategies.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent or equivalent experience
• Extensive experience in government affairs, public policy, or related roles, preferably within the energy, utilities, or corporate sectors.
• Experience working in federal government is preferred but not required.
• Strong understanding of the political landscape and regulatory processes in Washington, DC, with established relationships with key stakeholders.
• Proven ability to develop and execute successful strategies that enhance corporate or principal reputation and stakeholder engagement.
• Experience working in a matrix environment.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build relationships and influence diverse stakeholders, including senior leadership. Sound business judgment and discretion when managing sensitive matters.
• Strong analytical skills, with the ability to assess legislative and regulatory developments and their potential impact on the organization.

More Information