Washington D.C. Metro Area – August 21, 2026 – The Alliance for Aging Research (AAR), a preeminent nonprofit organization committed to transforming the landscape of healthy aging and ensuring equitable access to care, has announced an urgent search for a Director of Public Policy and Government Relations. This pivotal role, based in the Washington D.C. metropolitan area, will be instrumental in shaping federal policy and advancing the organization’s mission to improve the lives of older adults nationwide.
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The Alliance, a respected voice in the aging research community, is actively seeking a dynamic and experienced individual to spearhead its policy development and federal advocacy efforts. The successful candidate will be tasked with engaging directly with key stakeholders across the federal government, including members of Congress, federal agencies, and the Administration, as well as collaborating with coalition partners and a broad spectrum of external stakeholders. Their primary objective will be to champion policies that foster the health, well-being, and equitable access to care for the growing older adult population.
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This is a significant opportunity for a policy professional to make a tangible impact within a highly collaborative and mission-driven organization. The Director will report directly to the Senior Vice President of Public Policy and Government Relations, working closely with other internal departments to ensure a cohesive and effective approach to advocacy. The Alliance emphasizes its commitment to fostering an inclusive environment where individuals can grow and diverse talent is nurtured and retained.
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The Imperative for Advancing Healthy Aging Policy
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The demographic shift towards an aging global population presents both unprecedented challenges and remarkable opportunities. As the proportion of older adults continues to rise, so does the critical need for policies that support not only longevity but also sustained health, independence, and quality of life. The Alliance for Aging Research has long been at the forefront of advocating for evidence-based policies that address the multifaceted aspects of aging, from medical research and healthcare access to social determinants of health and economic security.
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The Director of Public Policy and Government Relations will play a crucial role in this ongoing effort. The position demands a deep understanding of the federal legislative and regulatory landscape, coupled with a proven ability to build consensus and effectively communicate complex policy issues to diverse audiences. The individual will be expected to develop and implement strategic advocacy plans, monitor legislative and regulatory developments, and serve as a knowledgeable resource for policymakers and stakeholders on issues pertaining to aging.
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The Alliance’s commitment to "changing the narrative" around aging signifies a proactive approach that moves beyond a focus solely on disease and decline. Instead, the organization champions a vision of aging as a period of continued growth, engagement, and contribution. The Director will be a key architect in translating this vision into concrete policy outcomes, advocating for investments in research, improvements in healthcare delivery, and supportive community environments that enable older adults to thrive.
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Key Responsibilities and Strategic Focus
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The Director of Public Policy and Government Relations will be responsible for a comprehensive suite of duties designed to advance the Alliance’s policy agenda. This includes, but is not limited to:
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- Policy Development and Analysis: Conducting in-depth research and analysis of existing and emerging policy issues impacting older adults. This involves staying abreast of legislative proposals, regulatory changes, and scientific advancements in aging research. The Director will be responsible for formulating policy recommendations and developing persuasive arguments to support the Alliance’s positions.
- Federal Advocacy and Engagement: Cultivating and maintaining strong relationships with members of Congress, their staff, and relevant federal agencies, including the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), the National Institutes of Health (NIH), and the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). This involves direct lobbying, preparing testimony for congressional hearings, and representing the Alliance in meetings and public forums.
- Coalition Building and Management: Identifying and engaging with a diverse range of coalition partners, including other advocacy organizations, research institutions, and industry stakeholders. The Director will play a vital role in fostering collaboration and coordinating advocacy efforts to maximize impact.
- Stakeholder Outreach and Education: Developing and implementing strategies to educate policymakers, the media, and the public about critical aging-related issues. This may involve authoring policy briefs, op-eds, and other communication materials, as well as organizing briefings and events.
- Strategic Planning and Implementation: Contributing to the development and execution of the Alliance’s public policy and government relations strategic plan. This includes setting policy priorities, identifying key advocacy targets, and measuring the effectiveness of advocacy initiatives.
- Internal Collaboration: Working seamlessly with other departments within the Alliance, including research, communications, and development, to ensure that policy efforts are aligned with the organization’s overall mission and goals.
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The successful candidate will possess a sophisticated understanding of the legislative process and a track record of successfully influencing public policy. They will be adept at translating complex scientific and policy information into accessible and compelling messages for various audiences. Furthermore, a passion for improving the lives of older adults and a commitment to health equity will be paramount.
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Qualifications and Experience: A Foundation for Impact
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While the specific requirements for the "What You’ll be Doing" and "Requirements" sections of the original announcement were omitted, a role of this magnitude typically demands a robust set of qualifications. Prospective candidates are generally expected to possess:
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- Advanced Degree: A Master’s degree or higher in Public Policy, Public Health, Political Science, Law, or a related field is often preferred.
- Extensive Experience: A minimum of 7-10 years of progressive experience in public policy, government relations, or advocacy, with a significant portion focused on healthcare, aging, or related areas.
- Legislative and Regulatory Expertise: Demonstrated knowledge of the federal legislative and regulatory processes, including experience interacting with Congress and federal agencies.
- Policy Analysis Skills: Strong analytical and research skills, with the ability to critically evaluate policy proposals and develop evidence-based recommendations.
- Communication and Interpersonal Skills: Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to articulate complex ideas clearly and persuasively. Proven ability to build and maintain relationships with diverse stakeholders.
- Strategic Thinking: A demonstrated capacity for strategic planning and the ability to develop and implement effective advocacy campaigns.
- Leadership and Management: Experience in leading teams and managing projects, with a collaborative and results-oriented approach.
- Coalition Building Experience: A proven track record of successfully building and working within coalitions.
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A Comprehensive Benefits Package and Commitment to Diversity
The Alliance for Aging Research recognizes the importance of attracting and retaining top talent. To that end, the organization offers a generous and comprehensive benefits package designed to support the well-being and professional growth of its employees. This includes:
- Health and Wellness: Employer-paid health, dental, and vision insurance, providing comprehensive coverage for employees and their families.
- Insurance and Disability: Life insurance, as well as long-term and short-term disability coverage, offering financial security and peace of mind.
- Family Support: Paid maternity and paternity leave, demonstrating a commitment to supporting employees during significant life events.
- Financial Planning: A 401K retirement plan with employer matching, helping employees build a secure financial future.
- Work-Life Balance: Flexible spending accounts, qualified transportation benefits, and free gym access to support employee well-being. A monthly cell phone allowance or company-issued cell phone is also provided.
- Paid Leave: A generous allocation of fourteen (14) days of paid health and wellness leave, four weeks of paid vacation, and half-day Fridays, promoting a healthy work-life balance.
- Employee Support: An employee assistance program offering confidential counseling and support services.
Furthermore, the Alliance for Aging Research is deeply committed to fostering an inclusive and equitable workplace. As an equal opportunity employer, the organization actively strives to be a place where inclusion thrives, individuals grow, and diverse talent is retained. Discrimination of any kind based on race, creed, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity/expression, national origin, disability, age, genetic information, veteran status, marital status, pregnancy, or any other protected characteristic is strictly prohibited.
Salary and Application Process
The salary range for this critical position is set between $90,400 and $95,000 per year, commensurate with experience and qualifications.
Interested candidates are invited to submit a comprehensive application package by September 18, 2026. The application should include:
- A compelling cover letter outlining their qualifications and interest in the position.
- A detailed resume showcasing relevant experience and achievements.
- At least one writing sample that demonstrates their ability to articulate policy positions and communicate effectively.
Applications should be emailed to [email protected] with the subject line: "Director of Public Policy and Government Relations."
For those who prefer to review the full hiring announcement in a downloadable format, a PDF version is available at https://www.agingresearch.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/AAR-Director-of-Public-Policy-and-Government-Relations-08242026.pdf.
Implications for the Future of Aging Policy
The appointment of a new Director of Public Policy and Government Relations at the Alliance for Aging Research comes at a pivotal moment. As the nation grapples with the economic, social, and healthcare implications of an aging population, strong and effective advocacy is more crucial than ever. The individual stepping into this role will have the opportunity to shape policy that impacts millions of lives, driving progress towards a future where all older adults can experience healthy, fulfilling, and equitable aging.
The Alliance’s continued commitment to its mission, coupled with the strategic importance of this leadership position, signals a proactive approach to addressing the complex challenges and opportunities of aging in the 21st century. The organization’s dedication to fostering an inclusive environment further underscores its understanding that a diverse range of perspectives is essential for developing effective and equitable solutions. The success of this hiring initiative will undoubtedly contribute to advancing the broader national conversation and policy landscape surrounding aging, ultimately benefiting individuals, families, and communities across the country.
