Offer summary

Qualifications:

10+ years of experience in government relations, preferably in defense technology or aerospace sectors., Degree in International Relations, Public Policy, Political Science, or related field, advanced degrees are preferred., Established relationships with European defense ministries and government officials., Fluency in English and proficiency in at least one other major European language..

Key responsibilities:

Develop and execute Shield AI's government relations strategy across European markets.

Establish and maintain relationships with European defense ministries, procurement officials, and regulatory bodies.

Monitor and analyze European defense policy developments and geopolitical trends affecting autonomous systems and AI in defense.

Represent Shield AI at high-level European defense forums and government meetings.

Job description

Founded in 2015, Shield AI is a venture-backed defense technology company with the mission of protecting service members and civilians with intelligent, autonomous systems. Its products include Hivemind Enterprise—EdgeOS, Pilot, Commander, and Forge—as well as V-BAT and Sentient Vision Systems (wide-area motion imaging software). With offices in San Diego, Dallas, Washington, D.C., Abu Dhabi (UAE), Kyiv (Ukraine), and Melbourne (Australia), Shield AI’s technology actively supports U.S. and allied operations worldwide. For more information, visit www.shield.ai. Follow Shield AI on LinkedIn, X and Instagram.

The International Director of Government Relations for Europe will lead Shield AI's government relations strategy across European markets, building and maintaining relationships with key government stakeholders, defense ministries, and regulatory bodies. This role is critical in expanding Shield AI's European footprint and navigating complex regulatory landscapes. This role will report to the Head of Government Relations.

What you'll do:

Develop and execute Shield AI's government relations strategy across European markets

Establish and maintain relationships with European defense ministries, procurement officials, regulatory bodies, and key decision-makers

Monitor and analyze European defense policy developments, regulatory changes, and geopolitical trends affecting autonomous systems and AI in defense

Represent Shield AI at high-level European defense forums, industry events, and government meetings

Collaborate with business development teams to identify opportunities and secure contracts with European defense entities

Advise senior leadership on European market entry strategies and regulatory compliance

Lead cross-functional teams to navigate complex procurement processes in various European countries

Coordinate with legal and compliance teams to ensure adherence to export controls and international regulations

Build coalitions with industry partners and advocacy groups to shape favorable policy environments

Ensure alignment of European messaging and policies with Shield AI strategic objectives

Required Qualifications:

10+ years of experience in government relations, preferably in defense technology or aerospace sectors

Extensive knowledge of European defense procurement processes and regulatory frameworks

Established relationships with European defense ministries and government officials

Experience navigating NATO-related defense initiatives and multinational defense programs

Deep understanding of AI and autonomous systems regulatory landscape in Europe

Exceptional diplomatic and negotiation skills with ability to engage effectively at senior government levels

Degree in International Relations, Public Policy, Political Science, or related field, advanced degrees are preferred

Fluency in English and proficiency in at least one other major European language

Prior experience managing external consultants is preferred

Willingness to travel extensively throughout Europe (40-50%)

Security clearance or ability to obtain appropriate clearances

Our international team members are employed through our PEO partner and receive a comprehensive international benefits package on top of base salary. For full details on compensation and benefits, please consult your talent acquisition partner.

Required profile