Senior Director International Trade And Competitiveness Policy

Who We Are:

Founded in 1904, MEMA, the Vehicle Suppliers Association, is the leading voice for more than 900 original equipment and aftermarket suppliers, an industry which employs more than 930,0000 individuals across the United States. Vehicle suppliers represent the largest sector of manufacturing jobs in the country. At MEMA, you will not just have a job, you will help shape the future of mobility by advancing the business interests of vehicle suppliers and driving the policy, insights, and connections that keep people and goods moving safely every day. For more information, visit MEMAs official site.

The Opportunity:

The Senior Director, International Trade and Competitiveness Policy is an integral part of MEMA’s Government Affairs team reporting to the Senior Vice President, Government Affairs. The senior director works closely with MEMA leadership and member companies to develop and execute a strategic plan that addresses the international trade issues most directly impacting suppliers

The Senior Director will play a critical role in shaping the association’s trade policy positions based on member input and executing MEMA’s advocacy agenda before the Administration and other key stakeholders. This role requires a strategic policy professional who can lead issue development, manage member engagement, and advance a proactive trade and competitiveness agenda for the industry.

What You’ll Do:

• Support the design and implementation of MEMA’s international trade policy strategy.
• Work closely with MEMA leadership and member companies to develop strategic plans addressing priority international trade issues impacting the supplier industry.
• Lead the development of association trade policy positions in accordance with member input and industry consensus.
• Execute MEMA’s trade advocacy agenda before the Administration, including the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative, the U.S. Department of Commerce, and other relevant departments and agencies.
• Advance policy positions that strengthen the competitiveness of the U.S. vehicle supplier industry, including issues related to supply chain resiliency, market access, tariff policy, trade enforcement, and global sourcing dynamics.
• Assist with outreach and coordination with coalitions, trade associations, and non-government organizations to further key industry objectives.
• Support the management of MEMA’s trade-related working groups and serve as a policy expert to MEMA’s member councils.
• Provide written analysis of critical trade and innovation policy developments to support member communications, advocacy materials, and executive briefings.
• Present policy updates and strategic insights to member companies and industry audiences.
• Build awareness of the industry to ensure that government stakeholders are conversant with the sector and its priorities.

What You’ll Bring:

• 10 years of experience in international trade policy, government affairs, or related public policy roles. Experience working with trade associations, coalitions, or member-driven organizations is a plus.
• Bachelors degree in international affairs, public policy, or related field.
• Strong knowledge of U.S. trade policy, trade agreements, tariffs, trade enforcement tools, and global competitiveness issues.
• Strong analytical and writing skills, with the ability to translate complex policy developments into clear guidance for members.
• Experience engaging with federal agencies such as United States Trade Representative’s office and the Department of Commerce.
• Demonstrated ability to develop and execute strategic policy positions informed by stakeholder input and industry priorities.
• Executive presence and the ability to present to large groups and senior industry leaders.
• Strong relationship-building skills and the ability to build consensus across diverse member interests.

This is a hybrid role based in Washington, DC or surrounding areas with regular in person collaboration at MEMA’s DC office. Approximately 15-20% travel is required.

The pay range for this role is $170,000 to $190,000 per year. MEMA offers a competitive benefits package including health coverage, retirement plan with employer contribution, generous paid time off, and company paid professional development.