Global Government Affairs Director

About IonQ

IonQ, Inc. [NYSE: IONQ] is the world’s leading quantum platform and merchant supplier - delivering integrated quantum solutions across computing, networking, sensing, and security. IonQ’s newest generation of quantum computers, the IonQ Tempo, is the latest in a line of cutting-edge systems that have been helping customers and partners including Amazon Web Services and AstraZeneca achieve 20x performance results and accelerate innovation in drug discovery, materials science, financial modeling, logistics, cybersecurity, and defense. In 2025, the company achieved 99.99% two-qubit gate fidelity, setting a world record in quantum computing performance.

The Role

We are looking for a Global Government Affairs Director to join our Government Affairs team. As a Global Government Affairs Lead, you'll be part of a cross-functional team whose mission is to lead IonQ on its journey to build the world's best quantum computers to solve the world's most complex problems.

In this role, you will be responsible for defining, developing, and executing IonQ’s legislative and policy agenda while scaling our public sector initiatives from the U.S. to global markets. The ideal candidate is a strategic leader and sophisticated communicator who can navigate the intersection of high-tech innovation and complex regulatory landscapes.

Responsibilities

• Drive the legislative and policy strategies for IonQ by collaborating with senior management to define and execute advocacy agendas globally.
• Lead the analysis of proposed legislation to determine potential risks and develop sophisticated responses through early engagement.
• Implement monitoring programs for legislative and regulatory developments to educate internal stakeholders and advocate for IonQ interests.
• Formulate strategic policy positions and action plans regarding new or existing laws that impact the quantum computing industry.
• Identify and support participation in third-party advocacy groups and industry coalitions to amplify IonQ’s voice.
• Collaborate with Sales teams to identify public sector business opportunities and navigate government procurement processes.
• Develop tailored corporate messaging and brand strategies that resonate with government and public sector audiences.
• Coordinate disparate public sector engagement activities across the company to ensure strict alignment with the overall strategic plan.
• Build internal teams and manage external resources, such as consultants and agencies, to scale the government affairs program.

Requirements

• 10+ years of professional experience in Government Affairs, Public Policy, or Legislative Advocacy within the technology sector.
• Bachelor’s Degree in Political Science, Public Policy, Law, or equivalent practical experience.
• Proven track record of building relationships with U.S. federal agencies