Senior Public Sector Lead - SLED

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 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 Senior Public Sector Lead - SLED to join our Government Affairs team. As a SLED 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 driving IonQ's growth within state and local government agencies and educational institutions. The ideal candidate is a proactive relationship-builder who understands the nuances of state-level funding, regional economic development, and university-led research partnerships.

Responsibilities

• Execute a comprehensive SLED engagement strategy that aligns state-level technology initiatives with IonQ's quantum roadmap.
• Advocate for IonQ's interests within state legislatures and executive branches to influence regional technology policy and funding.
• Monitor state and local legislative developments to identify potential risks and opportunities for quantum research and deployment.
• Partner with regional sales teams to identify and capture procurement opportunities within state agencies and public universities.
• Engage with university leadership and research departments to foster partnerships that utilize IonQ's quantum systems for academic innovation.
• Develop state-specific messaging that highlights how quantum computing can drive regional economic development and job creation.
• Represent IonQ in state-level industry coalitions, technology councils, and education-focused advocacy groups.
• Provide strategic guidance to internal leadership on the impact of state-level regulations, government incentives, and local government procurement cycles.
• Manage external consultants.

Requirements

• 8+ years of professional experience in State and Local Government Affairs, SLED Sales, or Public Policy.
• Bachelor's Degree in Public Administration, Political Science, or equivalent practical experience.
• Deep knowledge of state-level procurement vehicles, RFP processes, and budget cycles.
• Proven ability to navigate complex relationships with state governors' offices, CIOs, and university chancellors.