Northrop Grumman’s Legislative Affairs organization is seeking a Director for Legislative Affairs supporting international programs (foreign military sales / direct commercial sales) across the enterprise.
Reporting to the Vice President of Legislative Affairs, the individual is responsible for educating staff and Members of Congress on Northrop Grumman international sales and guiding congressional notifications through the House Foreign Affairs and Senate Foreign Relations Committees. This individual would also be responsible for developing, educating, and advocating with Members of Congress and staff on Northrop Grumman programs and priorities ahead of international trips and engagements.
The individual will be a critical part of the legislative affairs team and collaborate across the team on activities related to Northrop Grumman priority programs, international sales and international policies important to Northrop Grumman (e.g. FMS reforms, export authorization act reforms, etc.). The individual will develop relationships across the enterprise to determine actions required to support business opportunities and remain informed of various company issues. The individual will also be expected to remain abreast of policies and initiatives that will affect the company as they relate to international sales. Consistent attention to developing productive relationships with key stakeholders is essential.
Basic Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree in related discipline, and at least 10+ years of experience in government and/or industry working in and around legislative affairs. (Appropriate combination of education and experience will be considered in lieu of the degree requirement).
Demonstrated ability to establish and maintain relationships within members of congress and staff.
Proven understanding of legislative and political processes is required. (This includes extensive exposure to broad-based issues impacting business and an understanding of the broader dynamics affecting government policy).
Responsible for congressional relations and legislative support for Northrop Grumman congressional notifications related to international sales across the corporation.
Advanced knowledge of the foreign military and direct commercial sales processes is a must.
Advanced knowledge of authorization and appropriations process is required. Proven track record in support and/or defense of several major defense programs before the authorization and appropriations committees.
Experience at strategic thinking as well as demonstrated abilities in setting and meeting objectives, while reacting within a growing and changing internal and external environment are critically important.
Represent Northrop Grumman leadership team for key legislative and stakeholder engagements.
A high level of integrity, and a hands-on approach to problem solving are required, as well as a professional presence for interacting with public policy decision makers, senior management and company executives.
Preferred Qualifications
Master’s degree in related discipline, and at least 10+ years of relevant experience.
Proven ability to synthesize complex problems/public policy issues while identifying their related business implications and the actions necessary to advocate a recommended outcome is essential.
Must be able to operate and manage teams working in fast paced environments and demonstrate strong judgment/decision-making skills, and political acumen.
It is also desired that individuals have established relations with members and staff that sit on and support the foreign affairs and foreign relations committees.
Knowledge and relationships with State Department activities related to foreign military sales / direct commercial sales for defense programs and priorities.
A strong commitment and ability to work cooperatively in a team environment is paramount.
Excellent organizational, executive communication, as well as project management, analytical, planning, presentation and human relations skills are required.
The demonstrated ability to build and foster effective relationships with others is critical.
Ability to coordinate across business areas, with key stakeholders external and internal to the company, as well as suppliers, is critical.