Vice President, Government Relations

This is a fully remote position, open to applicants in Washington.

📋 Description

• Develop and oversee Merlin’s government relations strategy, ensuring alignment with revenue and growth goals.

• Cultivate and sustain senior-level relationships across U.S. government agencies, including those in defense, aviation, and other relevant sectors.

• Collaborate closely with the Chief Revenue Officer and Business Development teams to identify, shape, and promote opportunities within government channels.

• Assist in the development and positioning of Merlin’s capabilities in accordance with government priorities, missions, and funding streams.

• Navigate and influence procurement processes, encompassing both traditional and non-traditional acquisition pathways.

• Work cross-functionally with Strategy, Programs, Engineering, and Policy to ensure that government engagement aligns with product direction.

• Provide insights into budget cycles, policy changes, and funding opportunities that impact revenue strategies.

• Represent Merlin in meetings, briefings, and industry forums to enhance credibility and visibility within the government landscape.

• Contribute to the capture strategy and advancement of key government programs.

• Create clear internal reporting and materials for external audiences to support executive and Board-level visibility.

⛳️ Requirements

• 12-15+ years of experience in government relations, defense programs, or public sector business development.

• Comprehensive understanding of the U.S. government structure, procurement processes, and funding mechanisms.

• Proven experience engaging with the Department of Defense, FAA, DHS, or similar agencies.

• Demonstrated ability to cultivate relationships that result in programmatic outcomes or revenue generation.

• Strong grasp of mission-driven technologies, preferably in aerospace, autonomy, or defense sectors.

• Experience operating within complex, regulated environments.

• Exceptional communication and stakeholder management abilities, with the capacity to influence senior leaders both internally and externally.

🏝️ Benefits

• Health, dental, and life insurance.

• Unlimited vacation.

• 401k with matching contributions.