Head of Government Affairs

Futures start here. Where first steps, new friendships, and confident learners are born. At KinderCare Learning Companies, the first and only early childhood education provider recognized with the Gallup Exceptional Workplace Award, we offer a variety of early education and child care options for families. Whether it’s KinderCare Learning Centers, Champions, or Crème de la Crème, we build confidence for kids, families, and the future we share. And we want you to join us in shaping it—in neighborhoods, at work, and in schools nationwide.

At KinderCare Learning Companies, you’ll use your skills and expertise to support the work (and fun) that happens in our sites and centers every day. From marketers and strategists to financial analysts and data engineers, and so much more, we’re all passionate about crafting a world where children, families, and organizations can thrive.

The Head of Government Affairs is responsible for developing and executing KinderCare's government affairs, public policy, and government relations strategy in support of the organization's growth and business objectives.

As Head of Government Affairs, you'll serve as KinderCare's primary representative with federal, state, and local policymakers, industry partners, and funding organizations, while advising executive leadership on legislative, regulatory, and political developments that may impact the business. You'll lead advocacy efforts, influence policy outcomes, secure funding opportunities, and position KinderCare as a trusted leader in advancing high-quality early childhood education. 

Responsibilities: 

• Develop and lead KinderCare's government affairs, public policy, and government funding strategy in support of the organization's business objectives and growth priorities 

• Position KinderCare as a leading voice in early childhood education policy, advancing the company's interests at the federal, state, and local levels 

• Serve as the organization's primary government affairs representative, building and maintaining influential relationships with policymakers, regulators, industry associations, coalition partners, and grant funders 

• Advise executive leadership on legislative, regulatory, political, and funding developments, translating external trends into business risks, opportunities, and strategic recommendations 

• Develop and oversee a comprehensive government relations strategy, maximizing federal, state, and local grant opportunities that support organizational growth, innovation, quality initiatives, and strategic priorities 

• Lead advocacy efforts to shape policy outcomes, secure funding opportunities, and promote a favorable regulatory environment for KinderCare 

• Monitor and communicate emerging legislative and regulatory developments that may affect the organization's operations, workforce, growth strategy, or reputation 

• Partner across the enterprise to align public policy priorities with business objectives and operational needs 

• Lead and develop the Government Affairs function, including internal state government relations and government programs and policy teams, external lobbyists, consultants, trade associations, and advocacy partners 

Qualifications: 

• Bachelor's degree required; advanced degree in Public Policy, Public Administration, Law, Business, or a related field preferred 

• 15+ years of progressive experience in government affairs, public policy, legislative affairs, or advocacy, including significant experience working with federal and state policymakers 

• Experience working on Capitol Hill, within a government agency, trade association, or comparable public policy environment 

• Strong knowledge of legislative, regulatory, and appropriations processes at the federal and state levels 

• Demonstrated success developing and executing advocacy, stakeholder engagement, and public policy strategies that drive measurable outcomes 

• Proven ability to build relationships, influence decisionmakers, and lead cross-functional initiatives in complex stakeholder environments 

• Strong understanding of government funding opportunities, public-private partnerships, and grant programs with a preference for experience with CCDBG, state subsidy systems, Pre-K funding, and Head Start partnerships 

• Exceptional strategic thinking, analytical, and executive communication skills 

• Experience in early childhood education, childcare, workforce development, education policy, or related fields preferred 

• Ability to travel up to 25% 

#LI-Remote

Our benefits meet you where you are. We’re here to help our employees navigate the integration of work and life:
- Know your whole family is supported with discounted child care benefits.

- Breathe easy with medical, dental, and vision benefits for your family (and pets, too!).
- Feel supported in your mental health and personal growth with employee assistance programs.
- Feel great and thrive with access to health and wellness programs, paid time off and discounts for work necessities, such as cell phones.
- … and much more.

We operate research-backed, accredited, and customizable programs in more than 2,000 sites and centers across 40 states and the District of Columbia. As we expand, we’re matching the needs of more and more families, dynamic work environments, and diverse communities from coast to coast. Because we believe every family deserves access to high-quality child care, no matter who they are or where they live. Every day, you’ll help bring this mission to life by building community and delivering exceptional experiences. And if you’re anything like us, you’ll come for the work, and stay for the people.

KinderCare Learning Companies is an Equal Opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, national origin, age, sex, religion, disability, sexual orientation, marital status, military or veteran status, gender identity or expression, or any other basis protected by local, state, or federal law.