Director, Government Affairs

About Us

We are Sila, a next-generation battery materials company. Our mission is to power the world’s transition to clean energy. To create this future, our team is building a better lithium-ion battery from the inside out today. We engineer and manufacture ground-breaking battery materials that significantly increase the energy density of batteries, while reducing their size and weight. The result? Smaller, more powerful batteries that can unlock innovation in consumer devices and accelerate the mass adoption of electric cars to eliminate our dependence on fossil fuels. We’re tackling one of the biggest challenges of our time every day, and together we’re redefining what’s possible. Are you ready to be a part of a team committed to changing the world?

Who You Are

As the Director of Government Affairs, you will develop and implement strategies to advance Sila’s political, legislative, and regulatory objectives in the areas of energy, materials, tax, and related issues at the heart of the EV revolution! You will report to our VP of Business Affairs & General Counsel and work cross-functionally with other leaders on our executive team. In addition to being a skilled communicator, this role will position you to drive a long-term strategic vision, build relationships with a diverse coalition of leaders to achieve that vision, and help Sila maintain its position as a clean technology thought leader. You must excel in a fast-paced and cross-functional environment involving frequent travel in and around DC, as well as travel to company sites in California and Washington state.

Responsibilities and Duties

• Lead our global government relations and public policy initiatives in partnership with our executive team and external consultants to drive opportunities for government support and incentive programs, legislation, regulation, and public outreach.
• Build and manage our strategic partnerships with high-level federal, state, and local government officials to promote Sila’s capabilities, policy perspective, and values, with a focus on engagements with the Department of Energy and Department of Defense.
• Help to ensure that Sila remains at the forefront of battery, materials, and EV policy, legislative, and programmatic initiatives.
• Represent Sila and foster key relationships in a diverse set of industry coalitions and other public and private policy forums in support of our business priorities.
• Track, analyze, and develop appropriate strategies to address domestic and international policy issues that may impact Sila’s long-term commercial and market opportunities.

Knowledge and Skill Requirements

• 7+ years of experience in public policy administration, development, and/or advocacy with a focus on technology commercialization and the renewable energy sector.
• Advanced degree in law, business, policy, or public administration, and bachelor’s degree in materials science or a related STEM field are both preferred but not required.
• Strong understanding, reputation, and relationships in the energy sector with a network of agency, regulatory, and legislative contacts, including extensive experience at or with the Department of Energy and Department of Defense.
• A collaborative style with outstanding written and oral communication skills, including a track record of good judgment in navigating politically sensitive topics with company executives, high-level officials, and the broader public.
• Based out of the DC area with ability and willingness to travel, both in and around DC, as well as to company sites in California and Washington state, with potential for occasional international travel.

Physical Demands and Working Conditions

• Operate a computer and other office equipment, such as a laptop, copier/printer, etc., in a fixed location.
• Travel required, both domestic and international (approx. 25% time).

The starting base pay for this role is between $198,000 and $250,000 at the time of posting. The actual base pay depends on many factors, such as education, experience, and skills. Base pay is only one part of Sila’s competitive Total Rewards package that can include benefits, perks, equity, and bonuses. The base pay range is subject to change and may be modified in the future. #LI-Hybrid

Working at Sila

We believe that building a diverse team at Sila helps us amplify our individual talents. We are an equal opportunity employer and committed to creating an inclusive environment where good ideas are free to come from anyone. We are proud to celebrate diversity and all qualified applicants are considered for employment without regard to gender, race, sexual orientation, religion, age, disability, national origin, or any other status protected by law.

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