The American Bankers Association is the banking industry's champion. Joining ABA makes you part of a team that: • has Extraordinary People - ABA experts are the "go to" sources for bankers, policy makers and the media for credible information and insights for the banking industry. • has Unmatched Scope and Scale - ABA's unparalleled information and services keep members current, knowledgeable and prepared. • is Impact-Driven - ABA has a proven record of bringing about positive change for our members and the industry. We take action and achieve results. Plus competitive pay, an outstanding benefits package, a convenient DC location, a professional collegial work environment and an opportunity to work on issues of national significance equals a winning combination!
Did you know that women and other marginalized groups are often reluctant to submit job applications if they don’t meet 100% of the requirements? We encourage you to take a chance! If you don’t satisfy every criterion, but know you can excel in the role, we urge you to apply! We’d love to connect and talk with you about joining our team.
Employer of Choice: ABA is recognized as a 2023 Great Place to Work!
Job Description:
The VP, Congressional Relations works closely with the Congressional Relations Executive Vice President to manage relationships with congressional members and committees of importance to the banking industry.
This position is focused on achieving the most favorable outcomes possible for the banking industry in the U.S. House of Representatives. The incumbent must develop and maintain a deep knowledge of company’s advocacy and policy agenda.
Key Responsibilities:
Advance the legislative agenda of the ABA by developing working relationships with assigned congressional offices, particularly Republican members of the U.S. House of Representatives.
Establishes fundraising budgets for assigned House members and coordinates with ABA’s state associations and department EVP on the approval and distribution of PAC funds.
Host and attends congressional fundraising functions on behalf of Bank Pac.
Develops relationships with state banker associations to coordinate ABA’s federal legislative agenda. This position also plays a key role in strengthening ABA’s relationships with member banks by supporting engagement activities, developing content and presenting to ABA’s committees, councils and working groups. The incumbent’s responsibilities also include serving as a legislative advisor to several ABA committees, councils and working groups. This support includes providing real time feedback to ABA bank members, as well as presenting legislative updates on calls, virtual meetings and in-person events.
Coordinates internal meetings on legislative priorities and assist in preparation of witnesses for congressional testimony in U.S. House of Representatives. Engages in enterprise-wide efforts to support BankPac, grow grassroots campaigns and improve banker engagement in ABA’s advocacy initiatives.
Engages in continuing education opportunities, and seeks out/participates in events, courses, peer groups or other networking forums. Serves on ABA task forces to support key policy efforts.
Qualifications:
Bachelor’s or advanced degree in public policy, government, communications, or related field.
At least 10 years’ experience working in a congressional relations capacity, experience working on Capitol Hill preferred.
Experience working in a Republican congressional office in a legislative capacity and/or a financial trade association or financial services-related industry strongly preferred.
Ability to work collegially and respectfully in an inclusive and bipartisan environment.
Thorough understanding of congressional legislative process and procedures.
Experience working on banking legislation or within the financial services industry strongly preferred.
Ability to advocate effectively on ABA legislative priorities.
Demonstrated ability to convey complex banking concepts into brief, easily understood concepts for Members of Congress and staff.
Strong decision-making and judgment paired with a solid foundation of analytical and strategic thinking.
Excellent presentation skills and the ability to influence others.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
Ability to have constructive dialogue with those in opposition to ABA’s positions.
Knowledge of political fundraising guidelines and practices.
Ability to travel.
American Bankers Association (ABA) is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, age, sex, marital status, gender identity, sexual orientation, disability, protected Veteran status, personal appearance, political affiliation, family responsibilities, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.
ABA encourages and celebrates diversity so if you are motivated, hardworking and want to make a difference, come as you are!
The American Bankers Association is the united voice of America’s hometown bankers—small, regional and large banks that together employ more than 2 million women and men, hold nearly $17 trillion in assets, safeguard $12.8 trillion in deposits and extend more than $9 trillion in loans. ABA believes that government policies should recognize the industry’s diversity. Laws and regulations should be tailored to correspond to a bank’s charter, business model, hometown markets and risk profile. This policymaking approach avoids the negative economic consequences of burdensome, unsuitable and inefficient bank regulation. Through a broad array of information, training, staff expertise and other resources, ABA supports America’s hometown bankers as they perform their critical role as drivers of America’s economic growth and job creation.
