Manager, AAPOS Advocacy:

Working closely with the American Academy of Ophthalmology DC office and the American Association of Pediatric Ophthalmology and Strabismus (AAPOS) Executive Vice President (and the AAPOS Board) this position develops, implements, and manages advocacy efforts on a daily basis to meet AAPOS identified top priorities at the federal and state level. The manager will proactively identify opportunities for AAPOS to “weigh-in” and advance priorities at the federal level which includes improving reimbursement for the pediatric subspecialty’s services, and increasing funding/support opportunities for the specialty. At the state , this includes promoting vision screening for children, educating policymakers and health plans on the limitations of vision therapy. This position works closely with the Academy’s VP of Governmental Affairs and Health Policy, Federal Affairs, and State Governmental Affairs departments to maximize AAPOS input and success. This position is also responsible for providing reports to AAPOS leadership, articles for AAPOS publications; drafting comment letters; and providing testimony for AAPOS leaders to present at both the federal and state level.

Responsibilities:

• In conjunction with senior AAO staff and AAPOS leaders, develop Academy positions and strategy to advance the interests of AAPOS; and serve as lead liaison between the Academy and AAPOS
• Identify opportunities to promote and advocate AAPOS at the federal and state level
• Develops effective working relationships with members of Congress and their staffs, federal agency officials, industry stakeholders and lobbies Congress and federal agency officials and other relevant organizations to advance the legislative and regulatory priorities of AAPOS
• Analyzes potential changes in federal laws/regulations to assess impacts on pediatric ophthalmology. Working with senior Academy federal affairs staff, and AAPOS leadership develops legislative and regulatory responses, including policy materials, presentations and legislative testimony
• Works with Academy state affairs staff developing strategy regarding crossover state/federal issues (i.e., Medicare and Medicaid payment, workforce funding)
• Manages AAPOS-led coalitions where appropriate and represents the Academy in coalitions with other physician organizations and other outside organizations on issues of mutual interest and importance (attends meetings, join in lobbying efforts)
• Staffs AAPOS advocacy and cross-organizational work with the Academy, assisting in development of Academy policy statements for Board’s approval
• Drafts articles and other member communication materials for AAPOS, works with grassroots staff on advocacy initiatives and responds to requests for information from AAPOS members, government representatives and other organizations

Requirements:

• Expertise on regulatory agencies and process at the state and federal levels
• Understanding of the Federal and state legislative process
• Understanding of eye care delivery and interest in children’s vision issues
• Understanding of Academy leadership and committee functions and processes 
• Excellent interpersonal skills and ability to work well in a team
• Strong verbal and written communication skills
• Ability to work well under pressure and change focus as new priorities arise
• Capacity to handle multiple projects simultaneously and complete them in timely manner
• Proficient Internet research skills and familiarity with government and outside organizations web sites
• Proficient in the use of MS Office applications