BIO is the premier biotechnology advocacy organization representing biotech companies, industry leaders, and state biotech associations in the United States and more than 35 countries around the globe. BIO members range from biotech start-ups to some of the world’s largest biopharmaceutical companies – all united by the same goal: to develop medical and scientific breakthroughs that prevent and fight disease, restore health, and improve patients’ lives. BIO also organizes the BIO International Convention and a series of annual conferences that drive partnerships, investment, and progress within the sector. Learn more at bio.org.

The Senior Director of National Security is responsible for advancing the National Security International Affairs Department’s national security policy and advocacy agenda, to include international affairs. The role combines high-level external advocacy with hands-on project management, requiring subject matter expertise, political acumen, and the ability to translate complex issues into actionable strategies. They lead designated national security policy portfolios, manage external relationships across government and relevant institutions, and ensure execution of priority deliverables in alignment with the Department’s strategic objectives. As a senior leader on the team, the Senior Director also mentors junior staff, supports cross-team initiatives, and contributes to organizational planning and reporting.

Responsibilities

Policy Leadership Advocacy

• Lead on two to four major policy areas (e.g., biotechnology for national security, supply chain resiliency, data sharing and data privacy, trade, etc.), under the strategic guidance of the Vice President for National Security International Affairs
• Build and sustain relationships with relevant policy makers and regulators
• Represent the organization in high-level external meetings, coalitions, roundtables, and public forums.
• Lead work on trade and supply chain initiatives that intersect with international affairs and national security.
• Track and support broader national security–related topics affecting the biotechnology industry

Program Deliverable Execution

• Oversee timely execution of policy deliverables (e.g. executive policy or legislative proposals, comment letters, white papers, reports, trackers, briefing presentations) under assigned objectives.
• Lead preparation for events such as policy briefings, multi-agency roundtables, conference panels
• Monitor and support activities of the International Council of Biotechnology Associations and engage with global trade delegations and high-level international officials.
• Coordinate international programming for Convention, ensuring strong representation and collaboration across global partners.
• Provide strategic guidance on the Department’s International Affairs program at the annual BIO International Convention
• Provide strategic guidance on trade delegations organized by the Department

Member Engagement Support

• Serve as staff lead or co-lead for at least one standing BIO member committee or working group
• Provide committee and working group members with timely policy intelligence and tailored updates.
• Conduct structured one-on-one check-ins with committee and working group members to identify needs and opportunities.
• Draft member toolkits, talking points, and internal policy explainers.

Team Leadership Strategy

• Partner with the Vice President of National Security International Affairs and other senior team members to ensure integrated execution across the team’s objectives.
• Mentor junior staff, provide feedback, and model high standards of professionalism.
• Contribute to quarterly strategy reviews and internal KPI reporting.
• Manage consultants to ensure efficient delivery of products and services
• Support development of SOPs, trackers, and annual planning processes to strengthen team operations.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in life sciences and public policy, or a related field required; advanced degree (e.g., MPP, JD, PhD) preferred.
• 10+ years’ experience in policy, government affairs, or related roles, preferably with a focus on biotechnology, life sciences, defense/national security, or trade.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Demonstrated interest in global policy issues relating to biotechnology and/or healthcare
• Strong understanding of U.S. policymaking processes (legislative, regulatory, and executive branch).
• Demonstrated experience with high-level advocacy and relationship management.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including ability to craft policy briefs, reports, and talking points.
• Strong project management skills; ability to manage multiple complex deliverables with competing deadlines.
• Cross-cultural communication and diplomacy skills for international engagement.
• Ability to mentor staff and contribute to a collaborative, high-performance team culture.
• High level of professionalism and experience handling sensitive information.

Physical requirements

• Sitting/Standing: Remaining in a stationary position for extended periods (sitting at a desk, standing at a counter).
• Reaching: Reaching for items on shelves or in cabinets.
• Lifting/Carrying: Moving boxes, files, or other office equipment up to 15 pounds.
• Using Hands/Fingers: Operating a computer, keyboard, mouse, and other office equipment.
• Vision: Close vision for computer work and detailed tasks.
• Fine Motor Skills: Using a mouse, keyboard, and other small office tools.

Travel

• Ability to travel locally or regionally on occasion

Work Environment

• Hybrid In office Tuesday-Thursday.

This job description is not intended to be all-inclusive, and responsibilities can be expected to evolve over time to meet changing business needs. The employee may be required to perform other related duties to meet these needs. While BIO’s intent is always to be clear and transparent about the expectations of this role, this job description may be reviewed and updated accordingly with or without notice. BIO is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other protected characteristic under federal, state, or local law. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.