Manager of State Affairs

Manager of State Affairs – Cato Institute

Location:

Washington, DC |

Employment Type:

Full-time

The Cato Institute is seeking a full‑time Manager of State Affairs to serve as the primary interface between the Institute and state policymakers. The Manager will maintain Cato as a prime source of objective analysis and policy expertise, ensuring that Cato scholars have the resources needed to support government decision‑makers across all 50 states. Reporting to the Director of State Affairs, the Manager will work closely with the existing state affairs team and relevant policy scholars to devise and execute engagement strategies for a portfolio of domestic policy issues, while building a network of state‑based contacts and partners.

The specific portfolio of issues and regions will be determined by the successful candidate’s experience and capabilities.

• Build and maintain relationships with policymakers in the legislative and executive branches across the states assigned.
• Identify, create, and assist with opportunities for Cato scholars to provide testimony, statements for the record, and other high‑impact opportunities.
• Track and advise Cato scholars and staff on ongoing and emerging dynamics in policy discussions across states to ensure maximum impact on the policy debate.
• Engage with state‑level think tank partners and develop new relationships to expand access to state‑level decision‑makers and educational opportunities.
• Oversee distribution of Cato scholarship to an audience in state legislative and executive branches.
• Work with existing state affairs staff to ensure Cato‑wide coordination of the Institute’s efforts, including extensive state travel and conference engagements.
• Support the development of an educational policy seminar series focused on state and local policymakers.
• Exercise exceptional judgment to protect and enhance Cato’s reputation for excellence, integrity, and dedication to principle.

• Minimum of 2 years of issue‑management experience in a state legislature, executive agency, or a similar role with a think tank, association, government‑affairs firm, or comparable entity (5 years preferred).
• Bachelor’s degree in political science, economics, or a related field.
• Demonstrated understanding and appreciation for Cato’s libertarian mission and principles.
• Experience with policy analysis and communicating policy positions to external audiences.
• Experience with domestic policy areas, with a specific emphasis on healthcare and energy preferred.

• Excellent project‑management skills with the ability to carry a project from conception to completion.
• Passion for free‑market, limited‑government policy and the ability to articulate this to diverse audiences.
• Comprehensive understanding of legislative concepts, rules, procedures, and operations.
• Excellent interpersonal, oral, and written communication skills.

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance
• Employer contribution to a Health Savings Account (HSA)
• Generous vacation and sick days
• Paid parental leave
• Employer‑provided life and disability insurance
• 401(k) employer match
• Transit/parking benefits
• Pet discount plan

Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States on a full‑time basis. This position does not offer visa sponsorship.

The Cato Institute is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

• Not Applicable

• Full‑time

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