Director of Government Relations

Collaborative autonomy is how self-tasking teams of machines will solve hard human problems, and HavocAI is an unquestioned leader in collaborative autonomy. We set the standard for autonomous surface vessels for a wide range of defense and commercial maritime missions. Success requires us to grow quickly, and we’re looking for teammates who are passionate about solving hard problems, about pushing the envelope, and about preventing conflict and saving lives. Ambition is welcome to apply within.

As our Director of Government Relations, you will play a key role in designing and executing the company’s outreach and advocacy efforts across Capitol Hill and the Executive Branch. Your work will involve building relationships with congressional offices, committee staff, caucuses, and leadership teams, as well as coordinating with relevant agencies within the Executive Branch. You will frequently serve as the company’s representative in meetings, briefings, and external events with lawmakers, staff, government officials, and industry organizations.

Success in this role requires a strong command of the federal budget, appropriations, and policy ecosystem and an ability to translate those processes into strategic advantages for the company’s growth and partnerships. We are looking for someone who is proactive, communicates clearly, requires minimal oversight, and contributes effectively to a team. If you enjoy taking ownership of complex challenges, navigating dynamic environments, and developing creative approaches to advancing organizational priorities, you will undoubtably excel here.

• Lead efforts to build strong relationships across Congress, federal agencies, and national security stakeholders to advance HavocAI’s priorities and strengthen our position in the defense ecosystem.

• Drive coordinated policy and funding engagement across programs and fiscal years, working with congressional offices, committees, leadership, caucuses, and executive branch partners to support key initiatives that enable growth.

• Prepare high-impact materials including policy proposals, funding requests, briefings, white papers, and hearing support that help senior leaders communicate HavocAI’s capabilities and objectives.

• Track and assess developments across the defense, homeland security, and appropriations landscape, providing timely guidance on opportunities, risks, and actions needed to support the company’s goals.

• Plan and execute Member and staff engagements at HavocAI facilities and exercises in the United States and abroad, ensuring visits effectively showcase our platforms, technology, and mission impact.

• Coordinate closely across internal teams and with external partners to align messaging, synchronize outreach, and integrate government engagement with broader business development efforts.

• Support the creation and execution of Political Action Committee activities.

• Bachelor's degree required with 5+ years of experience in national security, government relations, or federal policy roles within the legislative or executive branches or the defense industry.

• Direct background in national security issues through service on Capitol Hill, in the Executive Branch, or in a comparable government affairs position.

• Strong understanding of federal appropriations, authorizations, and policymaking, including how decision across Congress, the White House, and executive agencies influence defense priorities and industry growth.

• Experience working with defense policy and budget matters and familiarity with key stakeholders across the national security community.

• Demonstrated ability to create and execute strategies that shape legislative outcomes, support funding priorities, and advance organization objectives.

• Proven ability to build and maintain effective relationships with Members of Congress, staff, executive branch officials, and industry partners.

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills suitable for senior-level audiences.

• Ability to operate independently, manage competing requirements, and contribute immediately.

• Travel as required ~20% of the time.

• Ability to work and communicate in a bipartisan manner.

• The position is hybrid, and applicants must live in the Washington, DC area to support in-office work while enjoying flexibility for remote days.

• Position will require individual lobbyist registration under the Lobbying Disclosure Act of 1995.

• U.S. Citizenship and eligibility to obtain a DoD Secret Clearance.

• Familiarity with relevant Congressional committees

• Exceptional interpersonal skills

• 100% Employer paid Health, Dental and Vision Insurance for you and your families

• Life Insurance

• Ability to participate in the companies 401k program

• Unlimited PTO policy with an enforced 2 week minimum

• Equity Package

• Work / Home Office Stipend

• Global Entry

• 16 Week Paid Parental Leave

• Monthly Health and Wellness Stipend

• Innovation: We are driven to break new ground. Every day presents an opportunity to challenge the status quo, think boldly, and deliver advanced solutions that transform the future of defense technology.

• Integrity: We hold ourselves to the highest ethical standards, ensuring transparency, accountability, and trust in all our actions and partnerships.

• Mission-Driven: We are focused on achieving impactful outcomes that align with our core mission—protecting lives through innovation.

• Forward-Leaning: We continuously seek out new opportunities and remain at the forefront of technological advancements. We embrace change and anticipate the challenges of tomorrow with confidence and creativity.

• Ownership of All Tasks: At HavocAI, no problem is too complex or too trivial. We believe that greatness comes from tackling the hardest challenges, but also in handling the smallest, sometimes thankless, tasks with the same level of commitment and care.

• Servant Leadership: We lead by serving others, whether it’s supporting our employees, partners, or the broader community. Empowering those around us is key to achieving long-term success and making a lasting impact.

HavocAI is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is committed to creating an inclusive and diverse workplace. We welcome applicants from all backgrounds and do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, age, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other legally protected status.