The National Hydropower Association (NHA) is seeking a Director of Legislative Affairs to lead our congressional affairs efforts. Join the team that champions hydropower, America’s first renewable energy resource, as an essential part of a reliable, carbon-free electricity system.

About NHA:  NHA is a national non-profit trade association dedicated exclusively to advancing the interests of the U.S. hydropower industry, including conventional, pumped storage, and new marine and hydrokinetic technologies.  NHA’s membership consists of over 300 organizations, including consumer-owned utilities, investor-owned utilities, independent power producers, equipment manufacturers, environmental and engineering firms, and attorneys. 

Position Purpose & Responsibilities: NHA is hiring a Director of Legislative Affairs to be the face of NHA on Capitol Hill. In addition, this person will spearhead our efforts to raise the profile of hydropower in a handful of targeted state energy policy conversations. This position, based in Washington, D.C., will report directly to the President & CEO and will supervise one full-time legislative affairs manager as well as external consultants.

Responsibilities include:

1. Devising, in conjunction with the CEO, political and policy strategies to advance the Association’s policy objectives and NHA’s strategic plan.
2. Implementing the Association’s legislative policy program, including:
   1. Championing the Association’s policy positions before Congress;
   2. Strengthening awareness of industry policy needs through strong personal contacts on Capitol Hill, with environmental NGOs, and with state energy policy thought leaders (eg, NARUC, NASEO, NGA, etc.);
   3. Managing NHA staff and policy consultants;
   4. Leveraging other aspects of NHA’s advocacy efforts, including market strategies, regulatory affairs, communications and member events; and
   5. Serving as a spokesperson for the Association and representing the hydropower industry at political events, increasing industry visibility within the political sphere.
3. Providing policy and political intelligence to NHA’s member companies and working to build a broad industry consensus on key policy issues.
4. Coordinating NHA’s implementation of the October 2020 Uncommon Dialogue Joint Statement of Collaboration with environmental, tribal, and dam safety communities.
5. Supporting the CEO in building alliances with traditional and non-traditional allies (e.g., electricity industry trades, clean energy trades, climate advocates, etc.) to strengthen hydropower’s profile in ongoing energy policy debates.
6. Contribute to NHA’s continued performance as a high-performing organization by delivering on our strategic goals, including membership development and retention, mentoring staff, and encouraging a fun, collaborative work environment.

Ideal Candidate Will Have:

• 4-10 years of experience working in the policy area (e.g., Capitol Hill, public affairs firm, trade association, or NGO);
• Knowledge of energy issues preferred; hydropower experience not required
• Experience forging consensus among diverse stakeholders, managing personnel and budget, and working with Boards preferred; and
• Dynamic communication skills with speaking experience, political advocacy, analytical skills, and a healthy sense of humor.

About National Hydropower Association

The National Hydropower Association (NHA) is a nonprofit national association dedicated exclusively to preserving and expanding clean, renewable, affordable hydropower and marine energy. OUR VISION: Hydropower, in all its forms, is valued as America’s first and most flexible renewable energy resource to achieve a sustainable, clean and secure electric system in North America. OUR MISSION: Champion waterpower as America’s premier carbon-free renewable energy resource.

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