Merlin
aerospace
VicePresident,GovernmentRelations
“Vice President, Government Relations at Merlin. Skills: government relations strategy, senior-level relationship building, opportunity identification and advancement, procurement process navigation, alignment with government priorities. Develop and lead Merlin’s government relations strategy, aligned with revenue and growth objectives. Build and maintain senior-level relationships across U. S. government agencies, including defense, aviation, and related stakeholders”
What You'll Achieve.
driving access, influence, and ultimately revenue; open doors, shape opportunities, and help convert them into funded programs; aligned with revenue and growth objectives
Industry & Context.
Applicants must be authorized to work in the United States without the need for visa sponsorship now or in the future., In compliance with federal law, all persons hired will be required to verify identity and eligibility to work in the United States and to complete the required employment eligibility verification form upon hire., If you require reasonable accommodation in completing an application, interviewing, completing any pre-employment testing, or otherwise participating in the employee selection process, please direct your inquiries to: people@merlinlabs. com
What They're Looking For.
Must Have
12-15+ years of experience in government relations, defense programs, or public sector business development, Deep understanding of U. S. government structure, procurement processes, and funding mechanisms, Experience engaging with Dod, FAA, DHS, or related agencies, Proven ability to build relationships that lead to programmatic outcomes or revenue generation, understanding of mission-driven technologies, ideally in aerospace, autonomy, or defense, Experience operating in complex, regulated environments, Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills, with the ability to influence senior leaders internally and externally
Nice to Have
Experience with autonomous systems, aviation, or advanced air mobility, Familiarity with non-traditional acquisition pathways, Background in military service, government leadership, or senior advisory roles, Experience work in or with venture-backed or high-growth technology companies, network across relevant government and defense communities, Ability to operate effectively in fast-scaling ambiguous environments
What You'll Do.
Develop and lead Merlin’s government relations strategy
aligned with revenue and growth objectives
Build and maintain senior-level relationships across U. S. government agencies
and related stakeholders
Support the development and positioning of Merlin’s capabilities in alignment with government priorities
Navigate and influence procurement processes
including traditional and non-traditional acquisition pathways
Provide insights into budget cycles
and funding opportunities that impact revenue strategy
Represent Merlin in meetings
and industry forums to strengthen credibility and visibility within the government ecosystem
Help drive capture strategy and deal progression for key government programs
Develop clear internal reporting and external-facing materials to support executive and Board-level visibility
How You'll Work.
Team & Collaboration
Partner closely with the Chief Revenue Officer and Business Development teams to identify, shape, and advance opportunities within government channels; Collaborate cross-functionally with Strategy, Programs, Engineering, and Policy to ensure alignment between government engagement and product direction
Communication Scope
Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills; ability to influence senior leaders internally and externally; Develop clear internal reporting and external-facing materials
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