Head of Government Relations

About Forterra

Forterra is a leading provider of autonomous systems for ground-based movement in the working world. Amongst some of the earliest innovators in the field of driverless technology, Forterra is focused on building systems that protect front-line soldiers and enable civilian workers in our industrial base. Forterra is the go-to provider of ground autonomy solutions for the U.S. Department of Defense, which harnesses the technology for asymmetric warfare in critical conditions.

About the Role

We are currently seeking a strategic, relationship-driven, and policy-savvy Head of Government Relations to join our growing team. This role is a unique opportunity to shape our engagement with policymakers, federal agencies, and key stakeholders in the defense ecosystem. You’ll play a critical role in advancing our mission by navigating legislative and regulatory environments, identifying strategic opportunities, and ensuring our technologies align with national security priorities.

What You’ll Do

As our Head of Government Relations, your responsibilities will include:

• Building and maintaining relationships with key government stakeholders, including the Department of Defense (DoD), Congress, and federal agencies.
• Monitoring and analyzing legislative, regulatory, and policy developments that impact our business.
• Developing and executing an advocacy strategy to support innovation, procurement reform, and defense technology adoption.
• Collaborating with internal teams to align government engagement efforts with business and product strategies.
• Representing the company in industry associations, working groups, and at government meetings or hearings.
• Identifying and pursuing government funding opportunities, including appropriations, grants, and strategic partnerships.
• Ensuring compliance with lobbying regulations and providing regular updates to leadership on government engagement activities.

What We’re Looking For

At Forterra, we value individuals who embody the following attributes and can point to experiences that demonstrate them:

• Strategic Thinker: You see the bigger picture and understand how government decisions impact business growth.
• Relationship Builder: You have a strong network or the ability to establish key relationships in defense and national security circles.
• Policy Expert: You stay informed on legislation, defense budgets, and procurement processes.
• Persuasive Communicator: You can effectively advocate for policy changes and influence decision-makers.
• Team Player: You collaborate effectively across teams and communicate with clarity.

What You’ll Bring

• 5-10+ years of experience in government relations, public policy, or legislative affairs, ideally in defense, aerospace, or technology.
• Strong understanding of defense procurement, federal appropriations, and national security policy.
• Existing relationships or the ability to develop connections with key stakeholders in the DoD, Congress, and federal agencies.
• Experience advocating for policy changes and navigating legislative and regulatory environments.
• Excellent communication, negotiation, and analytical skills.
• Bachelor’s degree in political science, public policy, business, or a related field (advanced degree preferred).

Compensation & Benefits

The salary range for this role is an estimate and is based on a wide variety of compensation factors. The salary offered to candidates will vary based on factors including (but not limited to) relevant work experience, education, specialized training, critical expertise, and more. Equity in Forterra is included in most of our full-time, high-demand roles and is therefore considered part of Forterra’s overall compensation package.

In addition to base salary and equity, Forterra offers competitive benefits for full-time employees, including:

• Premium Healthcare Benefits: Three plan options, including an HSA-eligible plan, with Forterra covering 80% of the plan premium for you and your dependents.
• Insurance Coverage: Basic Life/AD&D, short and long-term disability insurance, plus the option to purchase additional life insurance for you and your dependents.
• Generous Holiday Schedule: Including a winter break in December.
• Paid Time Off (PTO): 20 days accrued per year.
• Parental Leave: A minimum of 7 weeks fully paid parental leave for birth/adoption.
• Education & Development: A $9k annual tuition reimbursement or professional development stipend.
• Office Perks: Fully stocked beverage refrigerators with all the Celsius your heart desires.
• Retirement Savings: 401(k) retirement savings plan, including traditional, Roth 401(k), and after-tax deferral with company match up to 4%.

Your recruiter will be able to share more information about our salary and benefits offering during the hiring process.

Equal Opportunity Employer

Forterra is an equal-opportunity employer, providing and promoting equal employment opportunity in accordance with local, state, and federal laws. Forterrans are unique, talented individuals who are united through a shared passion to deliver autonomous systems that enable national resilience and a robust supply chain. All qualified applications will receive equal consideration for employment.

Learn more here