Application Guide
How to Apply for Senior Director of Federal Relations
at ANCOR
🏢 About ANCOR
ANCOR is a national association representing community-based providers of services for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD). Working here means joining a mission-driven organization that advocates for person-centered outcomes, full inclusion, and empowerment. You'll be part of a tight-knit team that directly shapes federal policy affecting millions of lives.
About This Role
As Senior Director of Federal Relations, you will lead ANCOR's legislative advocacy, driving policy priorities on Medicaid and disability issues. You'll serve as the primary resource for Congress and federal policymakers, build coalition partnerships, and manage the political action committee. This role offers a unique opportunity to influence national disability policy and make a tangible impact on the I/DD community.
💡 A Day in the Life
A typical day might start with a Hill meeting to discuss pending legislation on HCBS, followed by a strategy call with coalition partners. You'll review regulatory updates from CMS, draft talking points for ANCOR's advocacy network, and meet with your Federal Relations Manager to coordinate grassroots efforts. Afternoon could involve preparing testimony for a congressional hearing or briefing a Senator's staff on workforce challenges.
🚀 Application Tools
🎯 Who ANCOR Is Looking For
- A seasoned lobbyist with 10+ years of experience in federal government relations, specifically in disability, health, or human services policy.
- Deep expertise in Medicaid and federal budget/appropriations processes, with a proven track record of advancing legislative priorities.
- Strong coalition-builder who can unite diverse stakeholders around common goals and represent ANCOR effectively on Capitol Hill.
- Passionate about disability rights and person-centered outcomes, with a commitment to serving marginalized populations.
📝 Tips for Applying to ANCOR
Tailor your resume to highlight specific federal lobbying wins related to Medicaid, disability, or provider reimbursement.
In your cover letter, explicitly name your experience with the Hill, especially in health or disability subcommittees.
Demonstrate knowledge of ANCOR's current policy priorities (e.g., HCBS, workforce crisis) by referencing them in your application.
Include examples of coalition leadership and how you've mobilized partners to influence legislation.
Mention any experience managing PACs or supervising advocacy teams to show readiness for the managerial aspects.
✉️ What to Emphasize in Your Cover Letter
["Your commitment to ANCOR's mission of person-centered outcomes for people with I/DD.", "Specific examples of federal legislative victories you've led, particularly on Medicaid or disability issues.", 'Your ability to translate complex policy into compelling arguments for both policymakers and coalition partners.', 'Your experience supervising staff and managing PAC operations to demonstrate leadership readiness.']
Generate Cover Letter →🔍 Research Before Applying
To stand out, make sure you've researched:
- → Review ANCOR's recent policy statements and position papers on Medicaid, HCBS, and workforce issues.
- → Read ANCOR's annual report and strategic plan to understand organizational priorities and challenges.
- → Familiarize yourself with key coalition partners like The Arc, AUCD, and ADvancing States.
- → Look into current federal legislation affecting I/DD services, such as the HCBS Access Act or Better Care Better Jobs Act.
💬 Prepare for These Interview Topics
Based on this role, you may be asked about:
⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Submitting a generic cover letter that doesn't mention disability policy or ANCOR's specific mission.
- Overlooking the importance of coalition work – this role requires strong relationship-building skills.
- Focusing only on lobbying without demonstrating knowledge of Medicaid financing and provider operations.
📅 Application Timeline
This position is open until filled. However, we recommend applying as soon as possible as roles at mission-driven organizations tend to fill quickly.
Typical hiring timeline:
Application Review
1-2 weeks
Initial Screening
Phone call or written assessment
Interviews
1-2 rounds, usually virtual
Offer
Congratulations!