Cisco

U.S. State Government Affairs Manager

Cisco$161K — $204K *
Education, Government & Non-Profit
5 - 7 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • 7+ years of political and public policy experience in relevant sectors
  • Strong understanding of tech-related legislative and regulatory processes
  • Excellent political judgment and relationship-building skills
  • Strong communication and advocacy abilities
  • Willingness to travel within the U.S. and occasionally internationally

Responsibilities

  • Advise senior leaders on engagements with state and local officials
  • Monitor and report on state legislative and regulatory developments
  • Build trusted relationships with legislators and state agencies
  • Educate policymakers on Cisco's technology in key areas
  • Advance policy priorities aligned with purpose-driven initiatives
  • Represent Cisco in state-level meetings and coalitions
  • Draft and present advocacy materials and testimony

Benefits

  • Access to a global network of government and public policy experts
  • Opportunity to influence technology policy at the state level
  • Collaborative work environment with cross-functional teams
  • Engagement with senior leadership in advocacy efforts
  • Commitment to purpose-driven initiatives and an inclusive future
Full Job Description
The application window is expected to close on: 10/05/2026
Location: Washington DC, most preferred

Meet the Team

Cisco is seeking a government affairs and public policy professional to join a global team as a U.S. State Government Affairs Manager. Reporting to the Vice President of State Government Affairs & Community Relations, this individual will help lead Cisco's government engagements and public policy efforts across multiple states.

Cisco's Government Affairs team represents the company with governments around the world to build relationships with key leaders, advance Cisco's public policy goals, and educate governments about our industry. Government Affairs is involved in all key legislative, regulatory, and global issues that impact the technology industry.

We are comprised of government and public policy experts across two dozen countries who represent Cisco at the highest levels of government. The team has extensive experience in and out of government and are recognized leaders in the industry.

Your Impact

As a U.S. State Government Affairs Manager, you will develop and implement strategies to strengthen Cisco's presence and influence with state government stakeholders and technology associations. In collaboration with internal teams-including People, Policy & Purpose (3P), Sales, Communications, Legal, and Product Development-you will drive innovative policy solutions that support Cisco's business goals and mission to power an inclusive future for all.

Key responsibilities include:
  • Advising and preparing senior leaders for engagements with state and local officials, ensuring alignment with Cisco's business objectives and overall strategy
  • Monitoring, analyzing, and reporting on relevant state legislative, regulatory, and budget developments
  • Building trusted relationships with legislators, legislative staff, governors' offices, and state agencies to strengthen Cisco's public sector leadership
  • Educating policymakers on Cisco's technology and its role in AI, cybersecurity, broadband access, economic development, and public safety
  • Advancing policy priorities aligned with purpose-driven initiatives
  • Representing Cisco in state-level hearings, meetings, and industry coalitions
  • Drafting and presenting testimony, position papers, and advocacy materials


Minimum Qualifications:
  • 7+ years of political and public policy experience in government, corporate government affairs, public affairs, trade associations, or public policy institutions
  • Strong understanding of legislative and regulatory processes related to technology policy and familiarity with public policy issues affecting the technology industry
  • Excellent political judgment and relationship-building skills
  • Strong communication, writing, collaboration, and advocacy abilities with a demonstrated ability to build consensus across internal teams in pursuit of shared objectives
  • Ability to travel throughout the U.S. and, on occasion, internationally


Preferred Qualifications:
  • Experience in state and local government relations, government affairs, public policy, public affairs, political campaigns, lobbying, outreach, or research
  • Proven success leading policy or public affairs initiatives, such as lobbying or advocacy campaigns
  • Extensive experience driving cross-functional collaboration with senior stakeholders and influencing decisions at all organizational levels
  • Skilled in managing executives with exceptional leadership, communication, and collaboration skills
  • Deep knowledge of technology policy and commitment to Cisco's vision of a secure and accessible Internet
  • Demonstrated ability to integrate public policy with business strategy and corporate development objectives

About Cisco

Cisco Careers

Join the vibrant team at Cisco, a global leader in networking and cybersecurity solutions, where innovation and leadership thrive. Cisco offers a plethora of job opportunities that cater to a range of skills and experiences, making it an ideal place for both seasoned professionals and those seeking an internship to jumpstart their career. Work You’ll Do At Cisco, you’ll be part of a culture that values diversity, leadership, and professional growth. Engage in work that matters with a team that combines technology, creativity, and the power of human connection to redefine networking. Cisco’s commitment to innovation isn’t just about technology, but also about transforming the way we work and collaborate. Cisco’s employment philosophy supports career advancement and nurtures a leadership pipeline that is equipped with diversity training and opportunities for growth. Whether you’re applying your skills to drive our latest innovations or using our vast networking capabilities to solve complex problems, at Cisco, every role is impactful. Join Our Dynamic Team Explore job opportunities in areas ranging from engineering to marketing, sales to cybersecurity. Cisco is hiring individuals who are passionate, curious, and ready to drive change. Positions at Cisco offer competitive benefits, a supportive culture, and the chance to work with cutting-edge technology. Internship Programs Kickstart your career with a Cisco internship. Gain invaluable industry experience, enhance your resume, and build professional networks that last a lifetime. Our internships provide hands-on experience and the chance to work on projects that matter. Leadership and Development Cisco is committed to fostering leadership skills and providing employees with the training needed to succeed. Our leadership programs help you develop new skills, manage teams effectively, and lead with confidence. Cisco’s commitment to professional development ensures that your career path is as dynamic as our technologies. Benefits and Culture Cisco understands the importance of a balanced life. Our benefits package is designed to ensure that our team members are healthy, happy, and secure. At Cisco, you’ll find a supportive culture that encourages open communication, teamwork, and mutual respect. Stay Connected Join Cisco’s Talent Network Stay informed about new positions that match your skills and interests. At Cisco, we value the curiosity and unique perspectives of our team members. Subscribe to receive personalized job alerts and insider tips directly from our hiring managers. Explore Cisco Jobs Ready to advance your career at Cisco? Search open positions, prepare your resume, and get ready for an interview that could lead to your next big opportunity. At Cisco, we’re not just filling positions—we’re investing in leaders. Keep Up to Date Stay ahead with career tips, insider perspectives, and industry-leading insights you can put to use today—all from the people who work here. READ CAREERS BLOG Job Alert Emails Customize your subscription to receive job alerts, the latest news, and insider tips tailored to your preferences. Discover the exciting and rewarding career opportunities that await you at Cisco.
Learn more about Cisco
Size
79,500 employees
Market Cap
$194.5 billion
Industry
Net Income
$10.1 billion
Founded
2014
5 Year Trend
+1.4%
Revenue
$48 billion
NASDAQ

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