Director, North America Team (NAT)

Job Posting Organization:
The Gates Foundation is the largest nonprofit organization dedicated to fighting poverty, disease, and inequity globally. Founded with the mission that all individuals, regardless of their identity or circumstances, should have the opportunity to lead healthy and productive lives, the foundation emphasizes diversity among its employees to reflect the populations it serves. Established in 2001, the foundation operates in multiple countries and employs over 200 individuals in its Washington, D.C. office alone. The organization is committed to providing an exceptional benefits package, including comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, generous paid time off, and retirement contributions, fostering a supportive environment for personal and professional growth.

Job Overview:
The Director of the North America Team (NAT) is tasked with setting and leading the federal engagement and coalition strategy for the Gates Foundation across the United States, Canada, and the United Nations. This role is pivotal in advancing the foundation's global health and development priorities through strategic political judgment and the cultivation of high-impact partnerships. The Director serves as the senior federal policy leader, responsible for shaping engagement strategies across the U.S. federal landscape and multilateral institutions. This position requires a high degree of external representation, building coalitions with diverse stakeholders to strengthen bipartisan support for the foundation's objectives. The Director also leads a multidisciplinary team focused on federal government relations, coalition engagement, and strategic grantmaking, ensuring compliance with relevant laws and regulations.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Develop and execute a comprehensive U.S. federal engagement strategy aligned with the foundation's global health and development priorities.
• Navigate complex federal policy and budget landscapes to inform foundation strategy.
• Monitor and analyze legislative and regulatory developments to provide political insights.
• Steward the foundation's reputation with U.S. government stakeholders.
• Guide engagement with North American governments and develop communication strategies.
• Serve as a trusted advisor to senior leadership on political developments.
• Build and mobilize coalitions to strengthen support for global health initiatives.
• Represent the foundation in high-level policy forums and discussions.
• Integrate federal work across the foundation to align with programmatic priorities. 1
• Lead and develop a high-performing team through organizational transitions. 1
• Oversee compliance, risk management, and ethical standards in federal engagement. 1
• Champion culture and engagement within the Washington, D.C. office.

Required Qualifications:

• Advanced degree in public policy, political science, international affairs, public health, or a related field, or equivalent senior-level experience.
• 15+ years of senior leadership experience in U.S. federal government, philanthropy, or advocacy sectors.
• Demonstrated record of sound political judgment and bipartisan credibility.
• Deep understanding of U.S. congressional dynamics and federal budget processes.
• Proven ability to convene and lead cross-sector coalitions.
• Preferred experience with Canadian political environments and familiarity with multilateral institutions.
• Strong reputation as a trusted leader and collaborator.
• Proven ability to lead large, multidisciplinary teams in matrixed environments.
• Exceptional communication and relationship-building skills.

Educational Background:
Candidates must possess an advanced degree in relevant fields such as public policy, political science, international affairs, or public health. Equivalent senior-level experience may also be considered in lieu of formal education.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of 15 years of senior leadership experience in sectors related to U.S. federal government, philanthropy, or advocacy. Experience in politically sensitive contexts and advising senior executives is essential, along with a proven track record of navigating complex policy environments.

Languages:
While no specific languages are mandated, proficiency in English is essential due to the nature of the role. Knowledge of additional languages, particularly French or Spanish, may be advantageous given the international scope of the foundation's work.

Additional Notes:
This position is full-time and based in Washington, D.C. The salary range for this role is between $375,200 to $581,600 USD, with specific adjustments for high-wage market differences in Seattle and Washington, D.C. New hires are typically brought in at a salary range between the minimum and midpoint of the salary range. The hiring process includes a background check, and accommodations are available for candidates with disabilities. The foundation is committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion in its hiring practices.