Senior Manager, Strategy Engagement & Advocacy

IonQ is developing the world's most powerful full-stack quantum computer based on trapped-ion technology. We are pushing past the limits of classical physics and current supercomputing technology to unlock a new era of computing. Quantum computing has the potential to impact every area of human society for the better. IonQ’s computers will soon redefine industries like medicine, materials science, finance, artificial intelligence, machine learning, cryptography, and more. IonQ is at the forefront of this technological revolution. 

The Senior Manager, Strategy Engagement and Advocacy will serve as an integral operator, strategic integrator, and execution driver for IonQ’s federal business and government relations team. Reporting to the Chief Corporate Affairs & Government Relations Officer, they will support strategic business initiatives, manage cross-functional projects, streamline operations, and improve communication flow between leadership, staff, and external stakeholders in support of IonQ Federal and the government relations team.

This role will blend strategy, planning, advocacy and operational execution. This role will support IonQ’s leadership in their engagement with the U.S. government and allied partners, oversee the execution of key initiatives, and ensure alignment across corporate and federal priorities. They will assist in translating vision into strategy as well as coordinating priorities and outreach across government relations, business development, and communications.

Responsibilities:

• Strategic guidance: Serve as a trusted advisor to the executive, assisting in defining, prioritizing, and executing strategic initiatives and organizational objectives.
• Project management: Lead and oversee special projects and large-scale, cross-functional initiatives from conception to execution, ensuring alignment with company goals.
• Operational efficiency: Identify and implement improvements to internal processes, workflows, and organizational structure to enhance efficiency and productivity.
• Communication hub: Act as a liaison and central point of contact between the executive office and internal teams, external partners, and other stakeholders. Draft and prepare high-impact communications, including presentations, reports, and memos. Translate vision and technology into strategic narratives that connect quantum innovation to U.S. economic growth, industrial policy, and national security which can be leveraged with think tanks, trade associations, and third-party stakeholders to advance IonQ’s leadership across the quantum and emerging technology ecosystem.
• Performance monitoring: Help define and track key performance indicators (KPIs) and monitor progress on strategic goals and company performance.
• Issue resolution and action tracking: Identify and address potential issues or roadblocks before they escalate, providing actionable solutions and recommendations.
• Research Support: Track and analyze legislative, regulatory, and policy developments relevant to IonQ’s public sector and national security work.
• Representation: Serve as intermediary for the leadership team in meetings with industry associations, public–private partnerships, and policy coalitions that promote U.S. quantum leadership and align with IonQ’s strategic objectives.
  
  

You’d be a good fit with: 

• 8+ years of relevant professional experience or an equivalent combination of education and experience
• Bachelor’s degree required in public policy, political science, economics, communications or a related field
• Professional experience should include:
• Strategic planning or corporate strategy
• Government, Public Affairs or Think Tank
• Stakeholder engagement or coalition building
• Policy analysis or advocacy campaign management
  
  

You’d be a great fit with:

• Demonstrated experience working with executive leadership and representing an organization externally
• Track record of managing complex, multi-stakeholder initiatives–ideally across public/private, and/or non-profit organizations
• Experience in federal or state policy environments
• Familiarity with industry and trade associations
• Key Skills and Competencies should include:
• Strategic Leadership
• Policy & Advocacy
• Stakeholder Engagement
• Communications
• Analytical & Research
• Project Management
• Excellent interpersonal and storytelling skills
• Growth Mindset

Location: This role is based onsite at our headquarters in College Park, MD or in the DC, Maryland, Virginia region.
Travel: Up to 25% travel
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