Senior Director, Political Affairs

Position Summary:AHLA is seeking a full-time Senior Director, Political Affairs. The Senior Director, Political Affairs serves as a strategic leader within AHLA's Government Affairs team, responsible for the comprehensive management, growth, and compliance of AHLA's Political Action Committee (HotelPAC), and political engagement programs.This position provides strategy, guidance, and execution on PAC operations, compliance, and political fundraising initiatives at both the federal and state levels. The Senior Director will lead cross-functional collaboration with senior leadership, internal departments, member companies, and legal counsel to align PAC strategy with AHLA's legislative priorities and organizational goals.The Senior Director will play a critical role in driving AHLA's political influence at the federal and state levels and be responsible for overseeing all aspects of HotelPAC operations.Key Responsibilities:Strategic Leadership and PAC OversightLead and evolve the long-term vision, growth strategy, and operations of HotelPAC to enhance its influence and fundraising capabilities with a goal of reaching $1.5m per year in donor contributionsServe as the primary architect of all PAC-related strategic plans, solicitation campaigns, donor engagement, and stakeholder communicationsProvide strategic counsel to senior AHLA leadership and the PAC Board, including regular analysis, reporting, and recommendations to advance AHLA's advocacy objectivesDevelop high-level presentations and strategic reports for Executive Leadership, Board Members, and the PAC Advisory Council. Compliance and GovernanceEnsure full compliance with all FEC, IRS, and state-level regulatory and reporting requirements for PACs, c4 entities, and lobbying disclosuresOversee the preparation and timely filing of federal and state lobbying and campaign finance reports in coordination with legal and compliance vendorsServe as the internal subject matter expert on campaign finance law, corporate PAC governance, lobbying compliance, and ethicsDirect external compliance consultants and legal counsel to maintain audit-ready records and mitigate risk exposure. Fundraising and Political EngagementDesign and manage year-round PAC marketing, communications, and fundraising strategies targeting member companies and industry leadersDrive donor cultivation initiatives, including executive-level engagement, peer-to-peer outreach programs, and customized solicitation campaignsLead execution of high-impact PAC fundraising events, donor recognition programs, and political engagement opportunitiesOversee donor database strategy and performance, including analytics, segmentation, and donor pipeline development. Cross-Functional and Stakeholder CollaborationServe as a senior liaison with key internal teams (Communications, Membership, Events, Government Affairs) to integrate PAC objectives across AHLA's broader member and vendor engagement activitiesPolitical Strategy & ResearchMaintain an up-to-date understanding of the political landscape, federal and state legislative trends, and political risk affecting the hospitality sectorProvide political intelligence and research to inform AHLA's engagement strategies and contribution planningRequirementsEducation and Experience:Bachelor's degree in political science, Communications, or related area or equivalent work experience5-10 years of experience in PAC management, political fundraising, campaign finance compliance, and/or related public affairs rolesExtensive knowledge of FEC compliance, federal and state campaign finance laws, and lobbying disclosure requirementsDemonstrated experience in a senior role managing a corporate, association, or other PAC program with national reach. Skills and Attributes:Proven strategic thinker and collaborator with the ability to lead complex projects and drive a large political programHigh-level project management, analytics, and organizational skillsExceptional oral and written communication and presentation skills, including for executive-level audiencesStrong political acumen and understanding of the political campaign ecosystem. Professionalism and discretion in handling sensitive political and legal mattersAbility to work independently in a fast-paced environment, while also being an excellent collaborator. Other:Occasional travel requirements for industry events with a political componentIn-office position - Based in DC. Targeted Salary Range for this position is $130,000 - $150,000BenefitsAHLA is an equal opportunity employer. We encourage you to apply even if your experience is not a 100% match with the position. We are looking for someone with relevant skills and experience, not a checklist that exactly matches the job description. We want to help you grow and in return, you help us grow into a stronger, more inclusive organization. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.