Director of Government Relations

About the role

The Director Government Affairs (US Federal and State) leads D-Wave’s U.S. government engagement strategy advancing policies that support quantum computing innovation and workforce development. This role develops and executes federal state and local advocacy efforts while building strong relationships with policymakers industry partners and trade associations.

As a senior leader the Director serves as both a strategic advisor and hands-on operator representing D-Wave externally and partnering internally to align policy positions with business priorities. This is a remote role with domestic travel required.

What you'll do

• Strategy & Advocacy: Develop and execute U.S. public policy and government relations strategies aligned with D-Wave’s business objectives in coordination with the Global Government Relations and Public Affairs team. Advocate for policies supporting quantum computing research funding and technology innovation at the federal state and local levels.

• Government & Stakeholder Engagement: Build and maintain trusted relationships with policymakers regulators industry groups NGOs think tanks and advocacy partners; serve as a primary external point of contact.

• Policy Intelligence & Guidance: Monitor and analyze legislative and regulatory developments; advise senior leadership on public policy risks opportunities and emerging trends.

• Cross-Functional Collaboration: Partner with internal teams including Legal and Business Development to align policy initiatives with company strategy and global messaging.

• Economic Development: Lead engagement with U.S. economic development organizations supporting site selection incentives permitting and redevelopment efforts as needed.

• Communications: Translate complex policy and technology issues for technical and non-technical audiences; develop policy papers and support public affairs initiatives.

About You

• 15+ years of experience in U.S. federal and/or state government relations including corporate experience

• Strong command of government operations advocacy and procurement processes

• Proven track record in economic development including grants incentives and public-private partnerships

• Demonstrated ability to build trusted relationships with government stakeholders and external advocates

• Experience in strategic planning policy analysis and multi-level advocacy

• Executive-level communication negotiation and leadership skills

• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced remote and highly collaborative environment

• Strong analytical skills with the ability to translate complex technical topics for non-technical audiences

• Familiarity with quantum computing AI/ML or high-performance computing preferred

• Background in a technology and/or publicly traded company a plus

A D-Waver's DNA

• We look at the future and say “why not”; we see possibilities where others see problems or routines. We show the way ahead and are committed to achieving ambitious goals.

• We practice straight talk and listen generously to each other with empathy. We value different opinions and points of views. We ensure that we connect outside as well as inside to learn from others and inspire each other.

• We hold ourselves accountable for delivering results. We make decisions & take responsibility so that we can act & support each other.

• As leaders we motivate & engage our teams to undertake beyond what they originally thought possible by developing our teams & creating the conditions for people to grow and empower themselves through enabling & coaching.

Our Compensation Philosophy is Simple but Powerful:

We believe providing D-Wavers with company ownership competitive pay and a range of meaningful benefits is the start of creating a culture where people want to give the best they’ve got — not because they’re simply making money but because they’ve fallen in love with our vision mission values and team.

During the interview process your Recruiter will review our total rewards (base equity bonus perks benefit culture) . The final offer is determined by your proficiencies within this level.

Inclusion:

We celebrate diverse perspectives to drive innovation in our pursuit. Our employees range from distinguished domain experts with decades of experience in their respective fields to bright and motivated graduates eager to make their mark. Our diverse and innovative team will make you feel appreciated supported and empower your career growth at D-Wave.

The Fine Print:

No 3rd party candidates will be accepted

It is D-Wave Systems Inc. policy to provide equal employment opportunity (EEO) to all persons regardless of race color religion sex national origin age sexual orientation gender identity genetic information physical or mental disability protected veteran status or any other characteristic protected by federal state/provincial local law.