Government Relations & Protocol Coordinator

About The Kennedy Center

“I am certain that after the dust of centuries has passed over our cities, we, too, will be remembered not for victories or defeats in battle or in politics, but for our contribution to the human spirit.” – President John F. Kennedy

The Kennedy Center is the nation’s cultural center and living memorial to President John F. Kennedy. Located on the banks of the Potomac River in Washington, D.C., the Center presents performances across all genres, and is also home to artistic affiliates Washington National Opera and National Symphony Orchestra. 

At the Kennedy Center, we strive to foster belonging and empowerment at work. We are able to advance our mission because of our committed and passionate employees. We are fortunate to be able to leverage their diverse perspectives, life experiences and skills to inform how our workplace can be a safe, transparent, and replenishing community. The Kennedy Center is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate against any employee or applicant based on race, religion, gender identity, sexual orientation, disability, veteran status, marital status, pregnancy or related condition, or any other basis protected by law. 

Mission Statement: As the nation's performing arts center, and a living memorial to President John F. Kennedy, we are a leader for the arts across America and around the world, reaching and connecting with artists, inspiring and educating communities. We welcome all to create, experience, learn about, and engage with the arts. 

Why Join Us

We offer a comprehensive range of benefits to all full-time employees including: 

• Staff offers for discount tickets
• Retirement plan with organization matching (after 1 year of employment)
• Qualifying employer for the Public Student Loan Forgiveness Program (PSLF)
• Commuter programs including pre-tax options for discounted parking and SmartBenefits (WMATA)
• Annual Leave, Sick Leave, and Personal Days available immediately upon hire
• 11 paid holidays per year 
• Medical, Dental, and Vision benefits with FSA and HSA options, and paid FMLA
• Flexible work arrangements
• We like to have fun! Check out the Kennedy Center National Dance Day 2023 staff video!

Job Description

The Coordinator of Government Relations & Protocol works with the Manager and Vice President of Government Relations & Protocol in coordinating both internal and external meetings, and supporting the government relations activities of the Office of Government Relations and Protocol (the Office), including administrative support, scheduling, federal and local legislative tracking, event and meeting planning, and assistance on budget and other projects as needed.

Key Responsibilities

Government Relations

• Support the Office of Government Relations & Protocol in its outreach to members and staff in the U.S. House, U.S. Senate, the White House, executive branch agencies, embassies, other governmental entities (including state and local), and charitable and advocacy organizations. Duties include scheduling; assisting in the preparation of briefing materials; monitoring federal and local legislation and policy initiatives.

External Outreach

• Other duties as assigned that work to build and develop productive relationships with the Kennedy Center to build on its mission and objectives. Assist with maintaining, developing, and growing relationships in the diplomatic community.

Internal Outreach and Support

• Support as needed the general administration of the Office of Government Relations & Protocol, including compilation of materials for special projects and internal briefing materials, preparation and processing of expense reports, processing ticket requests, and process and system training of the department’s volunteers and interns.
• Serve as the staff lead member on the Kennedy Center archiving project.

Protocol

• Assist as needed the Office of Government Relations & Protocol with visits of government dignitaries, coordination with internal and external security teams, and ensuring consistency in excellent experiences.

Other duties as assigned.

Key Qualifications

• Bachelor’s Degree or other equivalent knowledge and experience
• 3 years experience with administrative and organizational tasks at the executive level
• Familiarity with roles, responsibilities, and functions of the federal legislative and executive branches
• Office skills to include Microsoft Word, Microsoft Excel and general office technology
• Candidate must be local or willing to relocate to the DMV area.