Director, Federal Affairs

Position Overview: The Director of Federal Affairs will drive Consumer Brands’ federal policy strategy on issues including recycling infrastructure and technology, packaging labeling and design standards, and solid waste management. The director will work closely with Congress, EPA, FTC, and other federal agencies to advance the association’s positions, while serving as a trusted resource to member companies navigating a rapidly evolving policy landscape. This role requires someone who can operate at the intersection of policy, politics, and industry. The ideal candidate brings familiarity with federal environmental and packaging policy, established relationships on Capitol Hill and with relevant agencies, and the ability to translate complex regulatory developments into clear strategic guidance for members.

Key areas of responsibility (Advocacy, Stakeholder and Member Engagement, and Issue Expertise):

• Lead the development and execution of policy strategies related to recycling technology and infrastructure, labeling and waste management, including interactions with federal and state agencies such as the Environmental Protection Agency and the Federal Trade Commission.
• Advocate for policy positions impacting consumer packaged goods manufacturers with the U.S. government, including Capitol Hill advocacy aligned with Consumer Brands’ objectives.
• Establish and maintain relationships with Congress, federal regulators, and allied trade associations to build strategic support for policy initiatives.
• Develop proactive policy positions and industry response plans in anticipation of regulatory shifts, ensuring the organization is monitoring, identifying, and communicating trends or policy developments impacting the industry.
• Track and assess the federal implications of state-level packaging policies to ensure Consumer Brands’ federal strategy accounts for the full policy landscape.
• Maintain comprehensive knowledge of legislative and regulatory frameworks and other policies impacting recycling in consumer products and packaging.
• Collaborate with internal teams, including Regulatory Affairs, Legal, and Communications, to shape and promote policy positions, draft legislative materials, and develop compelling internal and external narratives.
• Act as the liaison to member companies for recycling issues, providing updates on emerging legislation, administrative or Congressional actions and advocacy initiatives.
• Engage with member businesses to build cross-industry support and coordinate cohesive policy approaches.
• Represent the organization in industry coalitions and public forums, effectively articulating Consumer Brands’ policy positions.
• Monitor and assess federal legislation, regulations, and emerging policies, such as extended producer responsibility (EPR) legislation, recycled content mandates, and packaging sustainability requirements, to ensure proactive strategy development.
• Provide research, data, and issue-related information to staff, members, and stakeholders through reports, briefing materials, and presentations.
• Collaborate with Federal Affairs team to ensure thorough advocacy for all other federal policy priorities.
• Advocate for practical, science-based packaging and recycling policies that balance regulatory goals with the operational realities of consumer packaged goods manufacturers.

This job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee. Duties, responsibilities and activities may change, or new ones may be assigned at any time with or without notice.