Director for U.S. Government Relations
 

Position: Director of U.S. Government Relations

Salary: Full Time $200K-$270K, medical+ dental benefits

Location: This position is based in Washington, D.C., to facilitate critical face-to-face interactions with policymakers, agencies, and other key stakeholders. A hybrid working arrangement is supported, with flexibility for remote work when appropriate.

Are you ready to shape the future of one of the most innovative and dynamic technologies of our time? A leading global company in advanced drone and robotic technologies is seeking a seasoned, strategic, and visionary Director of U.S. Government Relations to navigate the critical intersection of technology, public policy, and business strategy. This role offers a unique opportunity to influence how cutting-edge drone technology transforms industries, addresses critical societal challenges, and redefines recreational and commercial applications.

As the Director, you'll lead efforts to foster a favorable regulatory environment, champion innovation, and establish public trust. You will directly engage with U.S. federal and state policymakers, regulators, and advocacy groups to influence outcomes that align with the company's global and U.S.-specific policy objectives. This is your chance to make a tangible impact on the future of drone technology and its role in reshaping industries such as public safety, infrastructure, agriculture, and environmental conservation.

What You'll Do:

Strategic Policy Leadership

• Develop and execute comprehensive strategies for U.S. federal and state government relations, with a particular focus on legislative and regulatory affairs in Washington, D.C.
• Drive advocacy initiatives to address emerging challenges, such as national security concerns and data security regulations, while advancing the company's business goals.
• Act as the principal regional advisor on regulatory and policy matters, ensuring alignment with the company's global objectives and adapting to the fast-changing political landscape.
• Track record of advocating for or against federal legislation with clear strategies and measurable outcomes.
• Strong relationship-building skills with policymakers, regulators, and industry stakeholders across political affiliations.

Stakeholder Engagement

• Build and nurture trusted relationships with key stakeholders, including legislators, regulators, executive agencies, think tanks, trade associations, and advocacy organizations.
• Engage with policymakers from across the political spectrum, emphasizing bipartisan collaboration to ensure the company's policy initiatives remain resilient through political shifts.

Executive and Media Representation

• Represent the company in high-stakes environments, including public testimony, media interviews, and high-profile conferences, shaping the narrative around advanced drone technologies.
• Proven experience working with U.S. executive agencies, particularly those involved in national security or regulatory oversight.
• Serve as a spokesperson capable of articulating complex issues, such as data privacy and national security, to diverse audiences, including the media, policymakers, and industry stakeholders.
• Established relationships with individuals or networks within the Trump administration or affiliated circles (because he is going into office! This is NOT who did you vote for).
• Ability to leverage these relationships strategically in a professional capacity.

National Security and Data Issues

• Experience managing national security or data security concerns.
• Ability to address these challenges with effective strategies and successful outcomes.

Team and Resource Management

• Lead and manage external consultants, lobbying firms, and coalitions, ensuring strategic consistency and a strong return on investment.
• Oversee budgets for government relations efforts, ensuring alignment with company priorities and maximizing advocacy impact.

Internal Collaboration

• Work closely with U.S.-based sales, marketing, and technical teams to ensure policy strategies support business objectives.
• Collaborate with global policy teams to align U.S. efforts with international policy goals, contributing to a unified and forward-looking approach.

Advocacy in Trade and Policy Forums

• Actively participate in trade associations, coalitions, and policy forums to elevate the company's voice in the drone industry.
• Champion ethical standards and innovative policies that balance the benefits of drone technology with the need for public trust and safety.

What We're Looking For:

Experience and Expertise

• A minimum of 10 years of experience in government affairs, public policy, or related fields, with a proven track record of engaging with U.S. policymakers and regulators.
• Direct experience working with or within executive agencies, such as the Department of Commerce, the Department of Homeland Security, or the White House.
• Demonstrated expertise in managing data security concerns and navigating federal regulatory processes, particularly in industries dealing with emerging technologies.
• Familiarity with the Trump administration and its networks, including key officials and decision-makers, with the ability to navigate this landscape effectively.
• Expertise in addressing complex national security issues and advocating for technology-related policy outcomes.

Skills and Attributes

• Sophisticated understanding of technology policy issues, including privacy, data security, safety, and the economic impacts of new regulations.
• Exceptional relationship-building skills with top-tier legislators, regulators, and industry stakeholders across the political spectrum.
• A results-oriented mindset, with demonstrated success in managing high-stakes political or regulatory challenges.
• Strong interpersonal skills, including the ability to collaborate within diverse teams and present a professional, approachable demeanor.

Preferred Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in public policy, law, political science, or a related field; an advanced degree is strongly preferred.
• Experience representing organizations in public forums, media engagements, and executive-level meetings.
• Familiarity with trade associations or coalitions related to drone technology, robotics, or other emerging technologies.

Why This Role Matters!

This position offers the chance to be at the forefront of an industry poised to redefine modern life. You'll play a critical role in shaping policies that ensure drones are used responsibly, ethically, and to their fullest potential-whether in disaster relief, infrastructure inspection, agriculture, or environmental conservation. Your efforts will directly influence the company's ability to innovate and grow in one of the most dynamic technology sectors today.