Vice President, Government Relations & Communications - Divergent

Purpose

As a member of DII executive leadership team, the Vice President for Government Relations & Communications will play a pivotal role in driving DII’s government, public affairs, and communications strategy across the Aerospace & Defense (A&D) sector. Reporting directly to the CEO and working in close alignment with other executive leaders, the Vice President will shape high-impact initiatives to elevate Divergent’s brand, technology, and mission-critical solutions within federal, public, and policy-focused spaces. This role combines direct lobbying, coalition building, strategic communications, and partnerships with think tanks and charity organizations to establish Divergent as a leading voice in the innovation and national security markets.

The Role

• Policy Analysis and Communication: Monitor and interpret key legislative, regulatory, and political developments, providing analysis and recommendations to internal stakeholders. Develop and communicate Divergent’s policy positions and advocacy materials, representing the company at industry events, panels, and with external stakeholders. Oversee strategic communications efforts to shape public perception, ensuring alignment with Divergent’s mission and values.
• Internal Alignment and Collaboration: Partner closely with business development, engineering, and strategy teams to integrate government affairs and public relations strategies into Divergent’s broader strategic goals, guiding regulatory navigation and shaping public discourse around Divergent’s innovative solutions.
• Advocacy Oversight: Direct and coordinate advocacy efforts with external consultants, media, charity organizations, and third-party allies to influence policy outcomes, raise awareness, and increase Divergent’s visibility as a national security and defense leader.
• Strategic Insight and Leadership: Provide executive insights on political, regulatory, and legislative trends, preparing briefing materials and presentations for executive leadership for high-level engagements and negotiations. Collaborate with business development to identify and capitalize on opportunities driven by legislative and regulatory changes, aligning policy with Divergent’s market expansion and competitive positioning.
• Engagement and Event Management: Lead and manage high-level engagement efforts with key members of the Administration, Congress, international, state, and local leaders, their staff, and relevant congressional committees. Develop and execute a comprehensive strategy for government engagement events, including briefings, hearings, roundtables, and informational sessions, to promote Divergent's policy priorities and strengthen relationships with legislators and members of the executive branch. Oversee the planning and execution of events that foster dialogue between Divergent’s leadership and policymakers, ensuring alignment with company objectives and advocacy goals.
• PAC Leadership: Initiate and oversee Divergent’s Political Action Committee (PAC) activities and lead contribution efforts, ensuring that each initiative aligns with Divergent’s strategic goals and values. Establish a proactive approach to contributions management and PAC engagement that supports policy objectives and promotes Divergent’s mission.

Basic Qualifications

• Education: Bachelor's degree
• Minimum of 10 years of experience in government relations, public affairs, or a related field, with a demonstrated track record of successful advocacy and policy influence.
• Experience in the Aerospace and Defense sectors is essential.
• Proven experience in direct lobbying, coalition building, and strategic communication.
• Proven ability to develop and implement strategic advocacy plans.
• Demonstrated capability in stakeholder engagement and relationship management.
• Demonstrated experience in a senior leadership role, managing cross-functional teams and collaborating with executive leadership.
• Security Clearance: Secret

Preferred Qualifications

• Education: Master’s degree in Political Science, Public Administration, Policy, Law, Business Administration, or a related field.
• Extensive experience working with Congressional committees, regulatory agencies, and industry influencers.
• Previous experience in a senior public affairs role within a large organization or high-profile firm.
• Experience with defense contracting and national security issues.
• Established network of relationships with key decision-makers and stakeholders in the Aerospace and Defense sectors.
• Deep understanding of legislative and regulatory trends impacting the Aerospace and Defense industries.
• Security Clearance: Top Secret

Work Environment

• Location: This role will be based in the DC area with flexibility for remote work and regular travel for meetings, site visits, and industry events.
• Frequent interactions with high-level government officials, industry leaders, and internal executives.
• Collaborative and fast-paced environment with a focus on strategic outcomes and high-impact results.
• Requires a high degree of discretion and adherence to ethical standards given the role's influence on policy and public affairs.