Vice President, Political and Legislative Affairs at Planned Parenthood: High-Impact Policy Role in Washington DC

Discover the Vice President Political and Legislative Affairs job at Planned Parenthood Federation of America (PPFA), a senior leadership position offering $235,000–$250,000 annually in Washington DC. This guide breaks down the role, requirements, and career insights for reproductive rights advocacy professionals.

Introduction

The Vice President of Political and Legislative Affairs at Planned Parenthood Federation of America represents a pivotal leadership role in the reproductive health advocacy sector. Based in Washington DC, this position drives PPFA’s engagement with policymakers, Congress, and political stakeholders to advance reproductive rights, access to healthcare, and related legislation. With a competitive salary range of $235,000 to $250,000 USD per year, it attracts seasoned experts in legislative affairs careers and non-profit policy jobs.

Posted on September 26, 2025, this opening highlights PPFA’s commitment to equal opportunity employment, participating in the E-Verify program to confirm work eligibility. As reproductive rights face ongoing national debates, roles like this are essential for shaping federal policy. This article provides a pedagogical overview, analyzing the job’s scope, skills needed, and strategic importance for professionals eyeing Washington DC policy jobs in advocacy organizations.

Why This Role Matters in Today’s Political Landscape

PPFA, a leading non-profit, advocates for sexual and reproductive health services. The VP oversees political strategies amid key issues like abortion access, contraception funding, and Title X policies, making this a high-stakes position for influencing U.S. legislation.

Analysis

This senior role demands expertise in federal lobbying, coalition building, and crisis response. The Vice President Political and Legislative Affairs leads teams to monitor bills, draft position papers, and engage with lawmakers on Capitol Hill. In Washington DC’s dynamic environment, success hinges on navigating partisan divides while aligning with PPFA’s mission.

Core Responsibilities Breakdown

• Develop and execute legislative agendas for reproductive health policies.
• Liaise with congressional staff, committees, and federal agencies.
• Manage political fundraising and PAC operations.
• Coordinate with state affiliates on synchronized advocacy efforts.

Required Qualifications and Experience

Candidates typically hold advanced degrees in public policy, law, or political science, with 10+ years in government relations or legislative advocacy. Proven track records in health policy lobbying, such as work on Affordable Care Act provisions or Hyde Amendment challenges, are standard. PPFA emphasizes diversity, prohibiting discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, or veteran status.

The E-Verify participation ensures compliance with federal immigration laws, verifying employment eligibility for all hires—a common practice in DC-based non-profits handling sensitive policy work.

Summary

In summary, the Vice President of Political and Legislative Affairs at Planned Parenthood Federation of America is a strategic leadership position in Washington DC, compensating $235,000–$250,000 annually. It focuses on advancing reproductive rights through federal advocacy, equal employment practices, and E-Verify compliance. Ideal for experts in political affairs jobs, this role influences national policy amid evolving legal battles over abortion and contraception access.

Key Points

Practical Advice

Aspiring candidates for Vice President Legislative Affairs roles should tailor applications to highlight quantifiable wins, like successful bill passages or coalition victories. Network via events like the Women’s Health Policy Conference or ASHP summits.

Application Tips

1. Customize your resume with metrics: e.g., “Led advocacy securing $50M in federal funding.”
2. Prepare for interviews on current bills like the Women’s Health Protection Act.
3. Leverage LinkedIn connections in DC health policy circles.
4. Research PPFA’s annual reports for alignment with their strategic pillars.

Career Path to This Role

Start with entry-level policy analyst positions at think tanks like Guttmacher Institute, progress to director roles at health non-profits, and aim for VP after Capitol Hill experience. Certifications in public affairs (e.g., from GWU) boost credentials.

Points of Caution

While lucrative, this role involves high visibility and potential backlash in polarized politics. Expect long hours during legislative sessions and ethical scrutiny on lobbying disclosures under the Lobbying Disclosure Act.

Work-Life Balance Challenges

DC policy jobs often require travel and on-call availability for breaking news on Supreme Court rulings or midterm elections. Burnout is common; prioritize self-care and mentorship.

Application Pitfalls to Avoid

• Ignoring E-Verify requirements if not U.S. work-eligible.
• Generic cover letters failing to address reproductive health specifics.
• Underestimating partisan navigation skills.

Comparison

Compared to similar roles, PPFA’s VP position offers top-tier pay. For instance:

PPFA’s salary edges out peers due to its scale (serving 2.4M patients yearly). Unlike corporate lobbying, non-profit roles emphasize mission-driven impact over profit.

Legal Implications

PPFA adheres to federal laws including the Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) guidelines under Title VII, prohibiting discrimination. E-Verify compliance, mandated for federal contractors, verifies I-9 forms against DHS databases, reducing unauthorized employment risks. Lobbyists must register under the Lobbying Disclosure Act (LDA) of 1995, filing quarterly reports—critical for this role’s advocacy duties. No private right of action exists for E-Verify mismatches, but accurate documentation is required.

Key Regulations Overview

• LDA: Disclosure for influencing legislation.
• EEOC: Anti-discrimination enforcement.
• IRCA: Immigration Reform via E-Verify.

Conclusion

The Vice President of Political and Legislative Affairs at Planned Parenthood Federation of America stands as a cornerstone opportunity for leaders in reproductive rights advocacy careers. With its Washington DC base, substantial salary, and mission-critical focus, it demands strategic prowess amid national debates. Professionals equipped with policy expertise can drive lasting change. Monitor PPFA’s careers page for updates and apply strategically to secure this influential position.

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