Vice President, State and Local Government Affairs

The Vice President, State and Local Government Affairs, serves as a senior leader responsible for developing and executing Airlines for Americas (A4A) advocacy strategy across state and local policy arenas. This role drives engagement with governors, state legislators, municipal leaders and key stakeholders to advance policies that strengthen the U.S. airline industry and promote a safe, competitive and economically vibrant aviation system. The Vice President will utilize their prior experience in a state or local executive or legislative branch capacity to engage state and local policymakers while fostering bipartisan collaboration to achieve results. Acting as a trusted advisor to A4As senior leadership and member airlines, this individual will lead efforts to influence legislative and regulatory priorities, representing the airline industrys interests in critical policy decisions and ensuring alignment with pro-growth, market-based solutions. This position requires exceptional political acumen; a deep background in and understanding of state and local government processes; and a proven ability to navigate complex political environments. Strategic leadership and coalition-building skills are essential for success. Expertise in aviation and transportation policy is preferable. DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES • Lead the State and Local Affairs Committee (SLAC): Oversee a committee of approximately 30 regional representatives from A4A member airlines, covering all 50 states and U.S. territories. • Develop and Execute Advocacy Strategies: Direct and implement strategies to address proposed state and local legislation impacting the airline industry. • Coordinate Member Activities: Serve as the central point of integration for A4A member initiatives, ensuring alignment across teams and driving projects forward efficiently. • Foster Collaboration: Maintain momentum on cross-functional efforts, keeping initiatives on track and ensuring all stakeholders are engaged and contributing effectively. • Build State/Local Support for Federal Issues: Develop strategies to strengthen grassroots and state-level backing for key federal priorities. • Manage State-Based Consultants: Oversee a roster of consultants operating in targeted states to advance A4As legislative and regulatory objectives. • Engage with Third-Party Organizations: Manage relationships with influential groups including but not limited to the Republican Governors Association (RGA), Democratic Governors Association (DGA) and State Legislative Leaders Foundation (SLLF). • Collaborate on Political Investments: Work with member carriers to make strategic investments in political, public affairs and independent expenditure efforts. Apply tot his job Apply To this Job