Director of Government Relations - Foxboro, United States - FIFA World Cup™ Boston 2026

Description

ABOUT FIFA World CupTM Boston 2026

FIFA World CupTM Boston 2026 (Boston '26) is the host city organizing committee leading the event planning, coordination and tournament delivery for the seven matches of the 2026 FIFA World CupTM awarded to Boston. We aim to create and deliver memorable and safe experiences that promote the region. We are a non-profit organization committed to creating sustainable and positive economic and social impact for all communities.

Are you ready to apply Make sure you understand all the responsibilities and tasks associated with this role before proceeding.

For more information, visit us at and on Instagram @FWC26Boston.

ABOUT THE ROLE:

The Director of Government Relations is responsible for developing and implementing the organization's local and state government relations strategy. This includes building relationships with key government officials, monitoring legislative and regulatory developments, and advocating for the organization's interests; particularly around access to grants. The Director will work closely with internal teams to align government relations activities with organizational goals and objectives.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Strategic Planning: Develop and implement a comprehensive government relations strategy that aligns with the organization's goals and objectives in conjunction with FIFA's frameworks.
• Advocacy & Grants: Advocate on behalf of the organization with the City of Boston and local officials and agencies to influence policy and regulatory decisions. Actively seek grant and funding opportunities on both local and state levels.
• Relationship Building: Establish and maintain strong relationships with elected officials, policymakers, government agencies, and other relevant stakeholders to support Boston '26's tournament activities. Work with industry associations, advocacy groups, and coalitions to advocate for Boston '26's priorities.
• Policy Analysis: Keep track of legislative and regulatory developments at the local, state, and federal levels, and assess their impact on the organization. Analyze proposed policies and regulations to identify potential opportunities and risks for Boston '26.
• Communication: Communicate the organization's positions and interests effectively to government officials and other stakeholders.
• Compliance: Ensure the organization complies with lobbying laws and regulations.
• Reporting: Provide regular updates and reports to senior leadership on government relations activities and outcomes.

WHO WE'RE LOOKING FOR:

• Bachelor's degree in political science, public policy, business administration, or a related field (Master's degree preferred).
• 8+ years' experience in government relations, public policy, or a related field.
• Keen knowledge of the Boston and Massachusetts political environments, and maintaining an established network within the region.
• Experience with grant requests and funding acquisition highly preferred.
• Strong understanding of legislative and regulatory processes at the local, state, and federal levels.
• Demonstrated relationship and network building experience.
• Excellent communication, negotiation, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to analyze complex policy issues and provide clear recommendations.
• Strong organizational and project management skills.
• Ability to work effectively with diverse groups and build consensus.
• Proficiency in using technology tools for research and communication.
• Commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging.

Please Note: Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States without visa or sponsorship, and must be within reasonable commuting distance of Foxborough, MA.

WORK EXPECTATIONS:

• Full-time, 40hr per week role that may require occasional evening and weekend work. Local and regional travel is expected on occasion.
• This role is estimated to conclude in late Summar / early Fall of 2026.

COMPENSATION & BENEFITS:

The compensation range is competitive and commensurate with lived and professional experience, and includes access to:

• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance.
• 3 weeks paid vacation, plus 12 paid company holidays annually.
• 401(k) retirement savings plan with 3% dollar for dollar company match, plus 50% of elective deferrals that exceed 3%, but do not exceed 5%. Elective deferrals may begin upon hire.
• Flexible Spending Accounts.
• Company-paid life insurance.
• Opportunities for professional development and growth in the international sports industry.

Boston '26 is committed to maintaining an inclusive work environment that celebrates the diversity of thought, background & culture. These values and our passion for collaboration are equally critical to building the foundation that enables our success.

Boston '26 is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. All aspects of our personnel processes are based solely on a person's merit and qualifications, professional competence, performance & business needs. We do not discriminate against any employee or applicant based on race, color, religion, marital status, age, national origin, ancestry, physical or mental disability, medical condition, pregnancy, genetic information, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, and local laws. It is the shared responsibility of every employee to adhere to these principles too.