Vice President of Government Affairs

Talascend is currently seeking a Vice President of Government Affairs for a direct hire opportunity with our client in Washington, District Of Columbia.

Overview

This role involves establishing and leading the company’s government affairs function in Washington, D.C., serving as the principal representative to the U.S. government and shaping policy strategies to support manufacturing and defense industries.

Responsibilities

• Serve as the primary advocate for the company in Washington, D.C., building trusted relationships across Congress, the Executive Branch, and industry associations.
• Shape and execute public policy strategies aligned with the company’s objectives in mining, refining, and advanced manufacturing.
• Monitor and analyze legislative, regulatory, and budget developments related to national security, energy, tax, trade, and environmental policy.
• Engage directly with policymakers and staff, including preparing and delivering testimony, briefings, and public statements on behalf of the company.
• Develop and maintain strong bipartisan relationships with key congressional offices, especially on the Armed Services, Appropriations, Energy & Commerce, and Ways & Means Committees.
• Manage and coordinate external lobbyists, consultants, and trade associations to ensure aligned messaging and execution.
• Advise internal leadership on policy risks and opportunities; prepare policy briefs, talking points, and position papers.
• Represent the company in relevant coalitions, industry forums, and public engagements to build visibility and influence.
• Collaborate with legal, commercial, communications, and technical teams to ensure policy alignment with business strategies.
• Travel as needed.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree required; law or advanced degree preferred.
• 7+ years of relevant experience in public policy, legislative affairs, or government relations, including significant time on Capitol Hill.
• Demonstrated expertise in U.S. legislative and regulatory processes, including appropriations, authorizations, and federal procurement.
• Strong network of bipartisan relationships with congressional offices and relevant executive agencies.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills, with the ability to confidently represent the company publicly.
• Experience managing external lobbying firms and consultants.
• Deep understanding of industrial supply chains, the defense sector, and U.S. economic competitiveness.
• Active or prior U.S. security clearance is a plus.

Preferred Qualifications

• Entrepreneurial mindset with the ability to build and scale a government affairs function.
• Proven ability to navigate complex, high-stakes political and policy environments.
• Confident public speaker with judgment and presence to engage with senior officials, media, and industry stakeholders.
• Experience with Armed Services and/or Appropriations Committees is strongly preferred.
• Previous experience in corporate government affairs or a trade association is a plus.
• Mission-driven, highly organized, intellectually curious, and collaborative.