Business Development | Public Affairs

Build Something. Own It. Get Paid for It.

ColdSpark is expanding its public affairs practice in Washington, DC and we're looking for the person who will help define what it becomes.
This isn't a role where you inherit someone else's relationships and manage an existing book. This is a ground-floor opportunity for a well-connected DC operator who knows how to spot opportunity early, open doors that aren't yet open, and turn conversations into clients. ColdSpark is at an inflection point, and we’re looking for the right person to help write the next chapter of what this firm becomes in Washington.
What You'll Do
You'll be the face of ColdSpark in Washington. That means showing up where decisions get made at policy briefings, industry events, fundraisers, and the kind of informal settings where real relationships are built and consistently positioning ColdSpark as the firm that delivers senior-level talent and campaign-grade strategy to clients who are tired of being handed off to junior staff.
Day to day, you'll:
Build and manage a targeted pipeline of corporations, trade associations, nonprofits, and advocacy organizations with active or emerging public affairs needs
Identify policy shifts, regulatory developments, and political dynamics before they show up in an RFP and position ColdSpark ahead of the curve
Develop relationships with decision-makers, influencers, and partners across the DC ecosystem
Translate what you're hearing in the field into actionable business development strategy
Collaborate with partners on targeting, messaging, and pitch development
Track your pipeline with discipline and close with follow-through
What You Bring
A deep, active network across DC's public affairs, policy, political, or advocacy world not a list of contacts, but real relationships
A track record of generating business through relationship-driven development, not inbound leads
Sharp instincts for reading the political and policy environment and spotting emerging demand
The ability to operate independently, set your own priorities, and create momentum without waiting for direction
A confident, credible presence in high-stakes environments — you're comfortable in any room
Background in public affairs, political consulting, government relations, advocacy, or a closely adjacent field
What We Offer
Compensation: Base salary of $125,000+ with performance-based commission — strong performers have meaningful upside
Health Benefits: Medical, dental, and vision coverage
Retirement: 401(k) after one year of full-time service
Time Off: Flexible PTO
Location: DC-based with flexibility; moving to a hybrid in-office model within the next 9–12 months
ColdSpark is an equal opportunity employer.