Senior Public Sector Lead - SLED

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.

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; Excellent presentation skills with the ability to articulate technical value to state and local policy leaders.

Nice to have

Advanced degree in Law, Public Policy, or Education Administration; Existing network within high-impact state technology councils or the National Association of State Chief Information Officers (NASCIO); Experience in the semiconductor or high-performance computing (HPC) industries

Benefits

comprehensive medical, dental, and vision plans; matching 401(k); unlimited PTO and paid holidays; parental/adoption leave; legal insurance; home technology stipend