Government Affairs Communications, Sr. Manager

Government Affairs Communications, Sr. Manager | Lockheed Martin

The Senior Manager, Government Affairs Communications is a strategic leader responsible for designing and executing communications strategies that directly advance Lockheed Martin's legislative, policy and program advocacy support to corporate priorities and campaigns. This role sits at the intersection of communications, policy, and national security—ensuring the company's narrative reaches and resonates with key decision-makers across Capitol Hill and the Department of War. Reporting to the Director, Global Media, Financial Communications & Public Affairs, this leader partners closely with Lockheed Martin Government Affairs (LMGA) and LM Business Area executives in support of LM corporate priorities and campaigns to shape perception, influence policy conversations, and strengthen the company's position within the Beltway in a coordinated and effective manner. This is not a traditional communications role—this individual will operate as a trusted advisor and strategist, with the judgment, political discretion, and credibility to engage senior stakeholders in high-stakes environments.
Key Responsibilities
Develop and execute integrated communications strategies that advance legislative, policy and program support to LM corporate priorities and campaigns, helping to position Lockheed Martin with key audiences, including Members of Congress, Congressional staff, DoW leadership, and administration officials
Shape and drive messaging on critical defense and national security issues, ensuring alignment with customer priorities and the broader policy environment
Provide high-level communications counsel to senior Government Affairs executives and operate as a trusted advisor with the judgment, political discretion, and credibility to engage stakeholders in high-stakes environments
Support the SVP, Government Affairs, and other senior leaders with speeches, briefing materials, and thought leadership that reinforce key policy objectives
Serve as the central connector between Corporate Communications, Business Areas, and government affairs to ensure consistent, coordinated messaging and execution
Build and maintain trusted relationships, public affairs officers, trade associations, capitol hill communications, and third-party advocates to amplify key messages
Anticipate and prepare for political, legislative, and reputational risks, and develop proactive strategies to protect and advance the business
Partner with internal teams and external consultants to plan and execute high-impact advocacy and public affairs campaigns tied to business growth priorities
Build, lead, and develop a high-performing team, setting clear priorities, driving accountability, and fostering a culture of strategic execution and collaboration
Desired skills
10+ years of experience in strategic communications, government relations, or public affairs roles
Direct experience working on Capitol Hill (preferably HASC/SASC), the Department of War, or a senior federal agency
Exceptional writing, messaging, and storytelling skills, with the ability to simplify complex defense and policy topics
Strong executive presence and sound judgment in politically sensitive situations
Experience designing and executing advocacy or policy communications campaigns
Familiarity with aerospace and defense industry priorities and stakeholders