Head of Government Relations
Mach Industries
Mach is a defense manufacturing company that builds munitions to help the United States win future wars. Backed by $85M in funding from top venture firms, our small lean team ideates, designs, manufactures, and sells cutting-edge weapons to the Department of Defense.
Responsibilities:
Lead the company’s government relations strategy, building and managing relationships with government officials, regulatory bodies, and policymakers at the federal, state, and local levels to advance the company’s goals and priorities.
Develop and execute a comprehensive government engagement strategy that aligns with the company’s mission and long-term objectives, particularly in the defense, aerospace, and advanced technology sectors.
Serve as the primary liaison with Congress.
Advocate for the company’s interests by monitoring, analyzing, and influencing legislative and regulatory developments that impact its operations, products, and market opportunities.
Build and maintain a trusted network of relationships with elected officials, agency leaders, and key decision-makers, ensuring the company’s position as a valued partner in public-private initiatives.
Collaborate with internal teams, including business development, legal, and compliance, to align government relations strategies with corporate goals and operational priorities.
Represent the company at public forums, industry events, and government hearings to articulate its position on critical issues and enhance its reputation as a thought leader in its field.
Provide actionable intelligence and advice to senior leadership on political and regulatory risks, opportunities, and trends that may affect the company’s business environment.
Drive government relations initiatives, including securing funding opportunities, influencing policy direction, and supporting public-private partnerships.
Ensure compliance with all lobbying regulations, disclosure requirements, and ethical standards in all government interactions.
Basic Qualifications:
10+ years of experience in government relations, public policy, or legislative affairs, with a proven track record of success in the defense, aerospace, or high-tech sectors.
In-depth understanding of government structures, legislative processes, and regulatory environments, particularly in the defense and technology domains.
Strong network of relationships with policymakers, government officials, and industry associations.
Exceptional communication, negotiation, and advocacy skills, with the ability to engage effectively with senior government leaders and internal stakeholders.
Experience working on government-funded programs, defense acquisition processes, or public-private partnerships.
Proven ability to navigate complex political and regulatory environments to achieve strategic objectives.
Preferred Qualifications:
Direct experience working with U.S. government agencies, such as the Department of Defense, Congress, or regulatory bodies like the FAA or FCC.
Knowledge of defense acquisition frameworks, including FAR/DFAR, ITAR, and federal funding mechanisms.
Expertise in crafting policy positions and advocacy campaigns that align with corporate and government objectives.
Experience managing crisis communications or public affairs initiatives related to regulatory or legislative matters.
Familiarity with international government relations, including NATO, EU, or other allied defense organizations, is a plus.
Active security clearance or eligibility to obtain a clearance.
This role requires a strategic and diplomatic leader who can effectively navigate the intersection of government policy and business priorities, driving impactful partnerships and advancing the company’s mission in a complex regulatory environment.
Disclosures
This position may require access to information protected under U.S. export control laws and regulations, including the Export Administration Regulations (EAR) and the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR). Please note that any offer for employment may be conditioned on authorization to receive software or technology controlled under these U.S. export control laws and regulations without sponsorship for an export license.
The salary range for this role is an estimate based on a wide range of compensation factors, inclusive of base salary only. Actual salary offers may vary based on (but not limited to) work experience, education and training, critical skills, and business considerations. Highly competitive equity grants are included in most offers and are considered part of Mach’s total compensation package. Mach offers benefits such as health insurance, retirement plans, and opportunities for professional development.
Mach is an equal opportunity employer committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace. All qualified applicants will be treated with respect and receive equal consideration for employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, uniform service, Veteran status, age, or any other protected characteristic per federal, state, or local law, including those with a criminal history, in a manner consistent with the requirements of applicable state and local laws. If you’d like to defend the American way of life, please reach out!