Deputy Government Relations Leader

About the role

We are the leading provider of professional services to the middle market globally, our purpose is to instill confidence in a world of change, empowering our clients and people to realize their full potential. Our exceptional people are the key to our unrivaled, culture and talent experience and our ability to be compelling to our clients. You'll find an environment that inspires and empowers you to thrive both personally and professionally. There's no one like you and that's why there's nowhere like RSM. The Deputy Government Relations Leader serves as the second-in-command within the Public Policy and Government Affairs (PPGA) office and is responsible for supporting the development and execution of the firm's public policy and government affairs strategy. This role serves as a key liaison between the firm and federal, state, and local government stakeholders, while advancing policy priorities that support RSM's business objectives and the modern middle market. The Deputy Leader partners closely with the PPGA Leader, firm leadership, and lines of business to monitor legislative and regulatory developments, provide actionable insights, and drive strategic engagement with policymakers, regulators, and industry associations. This role also supports thought leadership, advocacy efforts, and the management of external lobbying resources. Strategy Execution & Operational Leadership Support the development and execution of RSM's government relations strategy aligned with firm priorities Monitor, analyze, and interpret legislative and regulatory developments impacting RSM and its clients Provide timely, actionable policy insights to support client service, business development, and go-to-market strategies Advocate for policies that support the middle market, professional standards, and innovation in assurance, tax, and consulting Ensure compliance with independence requirements, including restrictions related to attest clients Stakeholder Leadership & Engagement Build and maintain strong relationships with members of Congress, congressional staff, and Executive Branch officials Represent RSM in industry associations and coalitions (e.g., AICPA, Center for Audit Quality, National Association of Manufacturers, U.S. Chamber of Commerce) Serve as a key external representative of the firm in public policy discussions and forums Ensure consistent and coordinated engagement across all external touchpoints Internal Integration & Business Alignment Partner with line of business, industry, risk, and communications leaders to align public policy strategy with firm objectives Partner with firm leadership to translate policy developments into business impact and client opportunities Standardize how policy intelligence is deliverefd and utilized across the firm to support client engagement by equipping teams with relevant policy intelligence Thought Leadership & Communication Contribute to positioning RSM as a leading advisor to the modern middle market through policy-focused insights and commentary Support the development of position papers, comment letters, testimony, and policy briefs Assist in preparing executives for advocacy engagements and public-facing opportunities Team Leadership & Functional Management Support the PPGA Leader in building and managing the firm's government relations function Assist in oversight and coordination of external lobbying firms and consultants in partnership with legal and compliance teams ensuring alignment and performance, including deliverables and ROI Contribute to internal processes, reporting, and operational effectiveness of the PPGA function Risk Management & Compliance Align public policy activities with firm risk management, independence, and compliance priorities and regulatory requirements Collaborate with internal stakeholders (e.g., ORM, GCO, Audit Practice National Office, Office of Audit Quality) to ensure compliance Maintain adherence to lobbying laws, reporting requirements, and ethical standards Minimum Requirements Bachelor's degree required 12-15+ years of progressive leadership experience in federal policy development, government affairs Significant experience in senior Capitol Hill roles (e.g., Chief of Staff, Legislative Director, Policy Director) or equivalent Demonstrated strong relationships with Members of Congress, committees, and key staff Deep understanding of the federal legislative and regulatory process, including rulemaking and committee procedures Strong network within government, trade associations, and policy organizations Proven ability to analyze policy impacts and develop policy positions, briefs, and commentary Knowledge of lobbying laws, compliance requirements, and ethical standards Excellent communication, interpersonal, and stakeholder management skills Ability to collaborate across functions and influence senior leadership Preferred Requirements Advanced degree (e.g., JD, MPP, MBA, or related field) Experience

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