Senior Policy Advisor National Security & Defense

Senior Policy Advisor – National Security & Defense

Location: Washington, D.C.

A leading federal affairs and public policy team is seeking a Senior Policy Advisor with more than ten years of experience in national security and defense policy to join its bipartisan lobbying and public policy practice. This is a high-impact, client-facing role for a senior professional who brings both policy fluency and government experience to the table.

What You’ll Do

You’ll advise corporate and institutional clients on legislative, regulatory, and policy strategies in the national security and defense sectors. Responsibilities include:

Monitoring and analyzing legislation, appropriations, and regulatory activity related to defense, security, and supply chain issues

Developing and executing advocacy strategies before Congress, the Department of Defense, and other federal agencies

Drafting policy briefs, client memos, talking points, and communications

Advising clients on the national security implications of federal procurement, foreign investment, export controls, and industrial base policy

Supporting clients through the full spectrum of defense budget and authorization cycles

What We’re Looking For

10+ years of experience in national security policy, legislative affairs, or defense strategy

Capitol Hill experience strongly preferred, particularly with relevant committees of jurisdiction (e.g., HASC, SASC, Appropriations, Intelligence)

Experience with an executive branch agency involved in national security policy (e.g., DoD, DHS, State, or NSC) is a strong plus and may substitute for Hill experience

Bachelor’s degree required; JD or Master’s degree highly preferred

Exceptional written and verbal communication skills

Strategic thinker with a client-first approach and collaborative mindset

Familiarity with legislative process, regulatory frameworks, and national security compliance requirements

Why This Role?

Join a prestigious, full-service policy team that combines legal, lobbying, and regulatory expertise to deliver strategic outcomes for top-tier clients. You’ll work alongside a bipartisan group of respected professionals, including former members of Congress, military officers, and senior federal officials. The work is dynamic, mission-driven, and at the center of issues that define national security strategy and innovation.