The Deputy Government Relations Leader serves as the second-in-command within the Public Policy and Government Affairs (PPGA) office and is responsible for supporting the development and execution of the firm's public policy and government affairs strategy. This role serves as a key liaison between the firm and federal, state, and local government stakeholders, while advancing policy priorities that support RSM's business objectives and the modern middle market.
The Deputy Leader partners closely with the PPGA Leader, firm leadership, and lines of business to monitor legislative and regulatory developments, provide actionable insights, and drive strategic engagement with policymakers, regulators, and industry associations. This role also supports thought leadership, advocacy efforts, and the management of external lobbying resources.
Strategy Execution & Operational Leadership- Support the development and execution of RSM's government relations strategy aligned with firm priorities
- Monitor, analyze, and interpret legislative and regulatory developments impacting RSM and its clients
- Provide timely, actionable policy insights to support client service, business development, and go-to-market strategies
- Advocate for policies that support the middle market, professional standards, and innovation in assurance, tax, and consulting
- Ensure compliance with independence requirements, including restrictions related to attest clients
Stakeholder Leadership & Engagement- Build and maintain strong relationships with members of Congress, congressional staff, and Executive Branch officials
- Represent RSM in industry associations and coalitions (e.g., AICPA, Center for Audit Quality, National Association of Manufacturers, U.S. Chamber of Commerce)
- Serve as a key external representative of the firm in public policy discussions and forums
- Ensure consistent and coordinated engagement across all external touchpoints
Internal Integration & Business Alignment- Partner with line of business, industry, risk, and communications leaders to align public policy strategy with firm objectives
- Partner with firm leadership to translate policy developments into business impact and client opportunities
- Standardize how policy intelligence is deliverefd and utilized across the firm to support client engagement by equipping teams with relevant policy intelligence
Thought Leadership & Communication- Contribute to positioning RSM as a leading advisor to the modern middle market through policy-focused insights and commentary
- Support the development of position papers, comment letters, testimony, and policy briefs
- Assist in preparing executives for advocacy engagements and public-facing opportunities
Team Leadership & Functional Management- Support the PPGA Leader in building and managing the firm's government relations function
- Assist in oversight and coordination of external lobbying firms and consultants in partnership with legal and compliance teams ensuring alignment and performance, including deliverables and ROI
- Contribute to internal processes, reporting, and operational effectiveness of the PPGA function
Risk Management & Compliance- Align public policy activities with firm risk management, independence, and compliance priorities and regulatory requirements
- Collaborate with internal stakeholders (e.g., ORM, GCO, Audit Practice National Office, Office of Audit Quality) to ensure compliance
- Maintain adherence to lobbying laws, reporting requirements, and ethical standards
Minimum Requirements- Bachelor's degree required
- 12-15+ years of progressive leadership experience in federal policy development, government affairs
- Significant experience in senior Capitol Hill roles (e.g., Chief of Staff, Legislative Director, Policy Director) or equivalent
- Demonstrated strong relationships with Members of Congress, committees, and key staff
- Deep understanding of the federal legislative and regulatory process, including rulemaking and committee procedures
- Strong network within government, trade associations, and policy organizations
- Proven ability to analyze policy impacts and develop policy positions, briefs, and commentary
- Knowledge of lobbying laws, compliance requirements, and ethical standards
- Excellent communication, interpersonal, and stakeholder management skills
- Ability to collaborate across functions and influence senior leadership
Preferred Requirements- Advanced degree (e.g., JD, MPP, MBA, or related field)
- Experience working with key congressional committees such as:
- Senate Banking
- House Financial Services
- Senate Finance
- Ways and Means
- Appropriations or Budget Committees
- Experience supporting or advising leadership roles within Congress or major policy organizations
- Prior experience in professional services, financial services, or regulatory environments
At RSM, we offer a competitive benefits and compensation package for all our people. We offer flexibility in your schedule, empowering you to balance life's demands, while also maintaining your ability to serve clients. Learn more about our total rewards at https://rsmus.com/careers/working-at-rsm/benefits.
