McDonalds

Manager, Federal Government Relations - (Washington, DC-based role)

McDonalds • $115K — $144K *
Education, Government & Non-Profit
5 - 7 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • BA/BS degree required
  • 7+ years of experience in federal government relations or public policy
  • Experience in government and private sector environments
  • Expertise in food, nutrition, agriculture, sustainability, or supply chains
  • Established networks in government and private sectors
  • Excellent written and oral communication skills
  • Ability to work independently and collaboratively in teams

Responsibilities

  • Track and analyze legislative developments impacting food and sustainability
  • Design proactive engagement plans with federal officials and stakeholders
  • Manage outreach efforts such as policy briefings and advocacy days
  • Grow political networks and build effective coalitions
  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams to align policy with business goals
  • Support team-led initiatives and contribute insights across issue areas

Benefits

  • Comprehensive health and welfare benefits including medical and dental
  • Life insurance coverage
  • Bonus eligibility based on performance
  • Long-term incentives through equity grants
Full Job Description
Department Overview

The Manager of Federal Government Relations will serve as an ambassador for the McDonald's Brand on company priorities related to food, nutrition, agriculture, and sustainability. Reporting to the Director of Federal Government Relations, this role will help shape and execute consistent, proactive engagements within the McDonald's System, including McDonald's corporate staff, franchisees, and suppliers, as well as external stakeholders such as federal government officials, consultants, third-party groups, and trade associations.

This is a hands-on, execution-oriented role that blends strategy development with day-to-day advocacy, project management, and cross-functional teamwork. Strong motivation, writing, communication, presentation, and relationship-building skills are essential to success.

The ideal candidate brings subject-matter experience in one or more of these policy areas, paired with a flexible, team-oriented mindset and a willingness to step in and support broader team priorities as needed.

Duties

  • Track, analyze, and regularly brief relevant internal stakeholders on legislative, regulatory, policy, and reputational developments related to food, nutrition, agriculture, and sustainability.
  • Design and implement plans for consistent, proactive engagement with federal government officials, trade associations, third-party groups, McDonald's leadership and staff, franchisees, suppliers, and consultants, particularly in the legislative and regulatory issue areas outlined above.
  • Manage and execute key outreach efforts, including but not limited to policy briefings, advocacy days, restaurant visits, supplier tours, and other third-party engagements.
  • Maintain and grow sophisticated political networks and help build effective coalitions.
  • Partner closely with cross-functional McDonald's teams, including nutrition, sustainability, supply chain, communications, and legal, to align policy strategy with business objectives and advance brand and reputational priorities.
  • Contribute as an active, collaborative team member by supporting Director- and team-led initiatives, jumping in on short-term or high-priority projects, and sharing insights and best practices across issue areas.


Qualifications

  • BA/BS degree required
  • 7+ years of experience in federal government relations, legislative or regulatory affairs, campaigns, and/or public policy communications.
  • Experience in both government (Administration, Federal agency, or Congress) and private sector environments (corporate, trade association, or advocacy firm).
  • Demonstrated experience in one or more relevant policy areas (food, nutrition, agriculture, sustainability, supply chains), with the ability to quickly build fluency across adjacent issues.
  • Established, relevant government and private sector networks.
  • Excellent written and oral communication skills, with the ability to distill complex policy issues for diverse audiences.
  • Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a cross-functional team environment; comfortable owning projects while also serving as a strong team supporter; capable of managing multiple priorities in a dynamic, fast-paced, deadline-driven setting.


Compensation

Bonus Eligible: Yes

Long - Term Incentive: Yes

Benefits Eligible: Yes

Salary Range

The expected salary range for this role is $115,872.00 - $144,840.00 per year

The above represents the expected salary range for this job requisition. Ultimately, in determining your pay, we may also consider your experience, and other job-related factors.

Additional Information:

Benefits eligible: This position offers health and welfare benefits, including but not limited to comprehensive health insurance, which includes medical, prescription drug, mental health, dental and vision coverage, as well as, life insurance.

Bonus eligible: This position is eligible for a bonus, calculated based on individual and company performance.

Long term Incentive eligible: This position is eligible for stock or other equity grants pursuant to McDonald's long-term incentive plan.

About McDonalds

McDonald's Careers

Join the vibrant team at McDonald's, a global leader in the fast-food industry, and be part of a company known for its exceptional culture and commitment to innovation and leadership. At McDonald's, we offer a range of job opportunities that cater to a variety of skills and professional aspirations, making it an ideal place to jumpstart or advance your career. Work You'll Do At McDonald's, every position is an opportunity to grow. Whether you're looking for an entry-level role or a managerial position, you'll find that McDonald's supports your career ambitions with robust training programs and growth opportunities. Our team is dedicated to helping you develop the leadership and professional skills necessary for success in any endeavor. Join our diverse team and contribute to a culture that values innovation, leadership, and diversity. McDonald's is not just a workplace but a community where you can thrive professionally and personally. McDonald's Employment Benefits Choose a career at McDonald's and enjoy a comprehensive benefits package that supports both your professional and personal life. From competitive salaries and health benefits to employee discounts and flexible schedules, McDonald's is committed to the well-being of our team members. We also offer exclusive leadership and diversity training programs that empower our employees to take on new challenges and lead with confidence. Internship Opportunities Kickstart your career with a McDonald's internship. Our internships provide invaluable workplace experience and a chance to develop essential skills in a supportive environment. Interns at McDonald's work on real projects, learn from industry leaders, and gain exposure to the operational excellence that drives our global success. Innovation at McDonald's At the heart of McDonald's culture is a drive for innovation. We continuously seek innovative solutions to enhance the dining experience of our customers and improve our operational efficiencies. By joining our team, you'll collaborate on exciting projects that push the boundaries of what's possible in the fast-food industry. Networking and Professional Development McDonald's encourages professional development and networking through various initiatives and platforms. Connect with colleagues, mentors, and industry leaders who can help you navigate your career path and achieve your professional goals. Our commitment to career development is reflected in our ongoing training programs and our proactive approach to internal promotions and hiring. Join Our Team Explore the job opportunities at McDonald's and find the position that matches your skills and interests. We are hiring creative, curious, and motivated individuals who are ready to contribute to our dynamic team. Check out our open positions and apply today to take the first step towards a rewarding career at McDonald's. Stay Connected Keep up to date with the latest career tips, company news, and industry insights—all from the people who work here at McDonald's. Subscribe to our careers blog and personalize your experience to receive updates that align with your career interests. McDonald's is more than just a company—it's a place where you can make a difference. Join us and help shape the future of the fast-food industry while building a career that you can be proud of.
Learn more about McDonalds
Size
200,000 employees
Market Cap
$194.1 billion
Industry
Net Income
$4.7 billion
Founded
1955
5 Year Trend
-1.2%
Revenue
$19.2 billion
NASDAQ

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