Director, Public Policy & Government Affairs - Tax and Trade Policy (Washington D.C.)

Company: Smith & Nephew
Location: Washington
Posted on: April 1, 2026

Job Description:

Director, Public Policy & Government Affairs (Tax and Trade Policy) (Washington, DC) Life Unlimited. At SmithNephew, we design and manufacture technology that takes the limits off living. The Director, Public Policy & Government Affairs (Tax & Trade Policy), provides leadership and strategic and tactical support on the Company’s U.S. public policy priorities and ensures alignment on these priorities across the Company’s Divisions. What will you be doing? Lead the development of key public policy initiatives within the Company, working through collaborative frameworks of internal stakeholders. Effectively represent the Company to public officials in Congress and federal agencies. Develop and execute advocacy strategies that leverage a broad range of stakeholders and the knowledge of Company employees in delivering on objectives. Effectively manage and proactively work to build and enhance key government affairs program initiatives. Provide strategic and tactical advice on public policy issues to executives across the Company. Work on broad range of issues touching tax and trade, including U.S. tax code reforms, global trade and chemical policies that impact supply chain and procurement, and other policies regulating how we operate as a company. What do you need to be successful? 7 years of experience in public policy and government affairs specifically related to tax and trade. Experience with supply chain and procurement issues is a plus. This should include several years of experience working on Capitol Hill and/or in a federal agency, as well as several years working in a corporate government affairs function or relevant trade association. A track record of successful advocacy to policymakers on Capitol Hill and/or federal agencies on tax and trade issues. Intimate knowledge of the federal legislative process and tax and trade policy, with an ability to apply that knowledge to coherent strategy development. Proven ability to develop key relationships and identify and leverage collaborative opportunities with a range of influential stakeholders. A strong desire to continually improve and undertake new challenges, with a commitment to excellence and the relentless pursuit of policy change. A strong sense of accountability with high ethical standards. Bachelors degree required; postgraduate degree in a relevant field preferred. Strong understanding of the inner-workings of the US House of Representatives and Senate, as well as federal government departments and agencies. State legislative experience is a plus, but not required. Extensive experience (1) developing tax and trade policy, (2) advocating before Congress and federal departments and agencies, and (3) building and working with stakeholder coalitions. As part of any private sector work, experience being an active participant or leader in trade association working groups. Experience working with a political action committee and/or a grassroots program is a plus, but not required. Location : Successful candidate must reside in the Washington, DC, metropolitan area and have the ability to travel domestically up to 20% of the time to meet with internal and external stakeholders. You Unlimited. We believe in creating the greatest good for society. Our strongest investments are in our people and the patients we serve. Inclusion and Equity: Committed to Welcoming, Celebrating and Thriving on Inclusion, Learn more about Employee Inclusion Groups on our website (https://www.smith-nephew.com/) Your Future: 401k Matching Program, 401k Plus Program, Discounted Stock Options, Tuition Reimbursement Work/Life Balance: Flexible Personal/Vacation Time Off, Paid Holidays, Flex Holidays, Paid Community Service Day Your Wellbeing: Medical, Dental, Vision, Health Savings Account (Employer Contribution of $500 annually), Employee Assistance Program, Parental Leave, Fertility and Adoption Assistance Program Flexibility: Hybrid Work Model (For most professional roles) Training: Hands-On, Team-Customized, Mentorship Extra Perks: Discounts on fitness clubs, travel and more! SmithNephew is committed to the full inclusion of all qualified individuals. As part of this commitment, SmithNephew will ensure that persons with disabilities are provided reasonable accommodations. If reasonable accommodation is needed, please alert the recruiter if you are selected to move forward. SmithNephew provides equal employment opportunities to applicants and employees without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, or disability. Stay connected by joining our Talent Community . We're more than just a company - we're a community! Follow us on L inkedIn to see how we support and empower our employees and patients every day. Check us out on Glassdoor for a glimpse behind the scenes and a sneak peek into You . Unlimited . , life, culture, and benefits at SN. Explore our website and learn more about our mission, our team, and the opportunities we offer.

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