Head of Government Relations

About the role

Cape is actively constructing a mobile carrier that prioritizes user privacy above conventional data harvesting models, requiring a strategic leader to navigate the complex intersection of technology and public policy. The successful candidate will bear full ownership for shaping and executing the company's policy outcomes, ensuring that our operational objectives are not only heard but respected within governmental circles. You will serve as the primary architect of our long-term engagement with government institutions, aligning our privacy-focused mission with evolving national priorities. Your responsibilities will include managing all external relationships that influence our regulatory environment and public standing. You will ensure that our company's goals remain synchronized with government initiatives and policy changes through proactive and informed advocacy. This role demands a high level of political acumen to safeguard our interests while building trust with regulators and officials. You will translate complex technological concepts into clear policy narratives that resonate with diverse government stakeholders. Ultimately, your leadership will determine how effectively Cape can operate and innovate within the governmental frameworks that govern telecommunications.

Key facts

What you'll do

• Architect a comprehensive long-term government strategy with defined milestones and quantifiable benchmarks.
• Identify and cultivate relationships with key government contacts who are relevant to company needs and legislative priorities.
• Analyze and predict shifts in the political, policy, budget, and regulatory landscapes affecting telecommunications and privacy.
• Develop and advocate for new policies that create tangible benefits for Cape and its customer base.
• Establish and nurture strategic alliances with federal ecosystem partners, including industry coalitions and advocacy groups.
• Evaluate and optimize relationships with external advisors, subject matter experts, and lobbying firms to maximize influence.
• Secure engagement from resource sponsors to fund and support strategic government relations objectives.
• Plan and lead participation in industry conferences, policy forums, and government affairs events to elevate our presence.
• Monitor legislative and regulatory proceedings to ensure timely response and strategic positioning.
• Translate technical privacy features into accessible policy arguments for non-technical government audiences.
• Manage internal coordination between product, legal, and engineering teams to align on policy priorities.
• Maintain detailed records of all governmental interactions to inform future strategy and compliance requirements.
• Represent Cape in high-stakes meetings with regulatory bodies and congressional offices when necessary.

Requirements

• Demonstrate a proven track record of ownership and end-to-end results in fast-paced, high-stakes environments.
• Build and maintain strong connections with a diverse array of external stakeholders, including officials, advocates, and industry leaders.
• Communicate professionally with meticulous attention to political and bureaucratic protocols at all times.
• Possess direct knowledge of the federal legislative process, acquired through roles in lobbying, Congressional fellowships, or similar capacities.
• Develop a sophisticated multi-year government engagement plan that aligns company goals with the rhythms of government cycles.
• Bring a professional background in Political Science, Public Administration, Public Policy, or a closely related discipline.
• Exhibit the ability to operate independently with minimal supervision while managing complex, competing priorities.
• Adhere to strict ethical standards and compliance requirements inherent in government affairs work.

Nice to have

• Hold direct experience as a Professional Staff Member within the federal legislative process, such as on a Congressional committee or leadership office.
• Apply understanding of telecommunications, including the fundamentals of cellular network architecture and service delivery.
• Hold a graduate degree in Political Science, Public Administration, Public Policy, or a similar advanced field of study.

Skills & tools

• Strategic planning
• Stakeholder management
• Policy analysis
• Legislative process understanding
• Executive communication

Practical notes

Cape offers a competitive compensation package that includes meaningful equity and is adjusted for location. Benefits include 401(k) matching, 100% coverage for medical, dental, and vision premiums for you and your dependents, 12 weeks of paid parental leave (with no waiting period), stipends for family-forming and gender-affirming care, and unlimited PTO.