Director of Government Relations

D-Wave (NYSE: QBTS), D-Wave is a leader in the development and delivery of quantum computing systems, software, and services. We are the world’s first commercial supplier of quantum computers, and the only company building both annealing and gate-model quantum computers. Our mission is to help customers realize the value of quantum, today. Our quantum computers — the world’s largest — feature QPUs with sub-second response times and can be deployed on-premises or accessed through our quantum cloud service, which offers 99.9% availability and uptime. More than 100 organizations trust D-Wave with their toughest computational challenges. With over 200 million problems submitted to our quantum systems to date, our customers apply our technology to address use cases spanning optimization, artificial intelligence, research and more. Learn more about realizing the value of quantum computing today and how we’re shaping the quantum-driven industrial and societal advancements of tomorrow: www.dwavequantum.com.

You can read more about our company and our innovations in the pages of The Wall Street Journal, Time Magazine, Fast Company, MIT Technology Review, Forbes, Inc. Magazine, Wired and across many whitepapers. 

At D-Wave, we’re helping customers realize the value of quantum computing today and are shaping the quantum-driven industrial and societal advancements of tomorrow.

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.