Moving Space Forward Rocketdyne is back - and we're just getting started. The Role Rocketdyne’s propulsion technologies help power critical national security, space, and exploration missions. As Government Relations Director, you will help shape the federal policy and funding environment that enables those missions - and supports the company’s next phase of growth. In this role, you will develop and execute advocacy strategies that connect Rocketdyne’s technical capabilities and business priorities with the needs of Congress, the Department of Defense, NASA, and other federal partners. You will work closely with company leaders to identify opportunities, navigate legislative and budget decisions, and build relationships that advance Rocketdyne’s strategic priorities. The ideal candidate brings sound political judgment, a strong understanding of the aerospace and defense landscape, and the ability to turn complex policy and program issues into clear, compelling messages for senior government audiences. Role Location - Washington, DC Metro area. Why This Role Matters
- Rocketdyne is operating at a defining point in both our company's history and the evolution of the space and national security landscape.
- Federal policy, budgets, and acquisition priorities will play a critical role in determining how the aerospace and defense markets evolve - and where Rocketdyne can make the greatest impact. As an independent company, we need a clear voice in Washington and a government relations strategy directly connected to our programs, pursuits and long-term growth.
- This is an opportunity to be Bold - anticipating change and advocating for the priorities that will shape Rocketdyne's future; to build Trust - serving as a credible partner to policymakers, government leaders and senior executives; and to operate as One - connecting Business Development, Strategy, Communications, program leadership and the broader enterprise behind a coordinated approach to federal engagement.
Success in this role looks like:
- Rocketdyne has clear, coordinated federal government relations priorities aligned with its business objectives, key programs and growth strategy
- Congressional authorization and appropriations strategies support Rocketdyne's most important programs and pursuits
- Leadership understands how legislative, budgetary, and policy developments may affect the business - and what Rocketdyne should do about them
- Trusted relationships across Congress, federal agencies and the Administration strengthen Rocketdyne's visibility, credibility and influence
- Emerging policy, funding and stakeholder opportunities or risks are identified early enough for Rocketdyne to act
- Business Development, Strategy, Communications and program leadership operate from a shared government engagement strategy
- Senior leaders are prepared to engage policymakers and government officials with clear, consistent and compelling messages
Key Responsibilities:
- Develop and execute federal government relations strategies aligned with Rocketdyne’s business objectives, growth opportunities, and strategic initiatives.
- Build and sustain relationships with Congressional offices and committees, federal agencies, and other decision-makers whose work affects Rocketdyne’s markets and programs.
- Advocate for Rocketdyne’s priorities with policymakers and government stakeholders, translating the company’s capabilities into relevant mission, policy, and funding outcomes.
- Track and analyze legislation, appropriations, authorizations, regulations, and federal policy developments; advise internal leaders on their implications and opportunities.
- Lead coordinated engagement with the Department of Defense, U.S. Space Force, NASA, and other relevant federal organizations.
- Partner with Business Development, Strategy, Communications, and business and program leaders to align government engagement with major pursuits, existing programs, and emerging growth priorities.
- Prepare senior leaders for high-impact government engagements through briefings, talking points, position papers, and other executive materials.
- Advance Congressional engagement around authorization, appropriations, and other legislative priorities relevant to Rocketdyne.
- Plan and coordinate visits to Rocketdyne facilities by elected officials, government leaders, and other influential stakeholders.
- Represent Rocketdyne’s interests through relevant industry associations, coalitions, and external organizations.
- Conduct government relations activities in accordance with applicable lobbying, ethics, disclosure, and company requirements.
Basic Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree and at least 10 years of relevant experience; graduate degree and at least 6 years of relevant experience; or, in lieu of a degree, at least 10 years of relevant experience.
- Experience in government relations, legislative affairs, public policy, defense, aerospace, or a related field.
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience working with Congress, the Department of Defense, NASA, or other federal agencies.
- Strong written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to make complex technical and policy issues clear to different audiences.
- Understanding of the Congressional authorization and appropriations processes.
- Knowledge of U.S. national security, space, defense, and aerospace policy.
- Experience developing advocacy strategies connected to business objectives and program outcomes.
- Experience preparing senior executives for meetings with policymakers and government leaders.
- Experience working across business development, strategy, communications, program leadership, legal, and compliance teams.