Commercial Head of Government Affairs

ABOUT Slate

Slate is a new US Electric Vehicle company transforming the battery electric vehicle space.

Who we are looking for:

The Commercial Head of Government Affairs will be responsible for developing and executing strategic initiatives that create awareness, adoption, and momentum for Slate Automotive (Slate). These efforts will establish Slate in key markets where resources are deployed to initiate, support sales and enhance customers' ownership experience. The role will enter each market, identify new business challenges and opportunities, and manage relationships with key stakeholders including government agencies, regulators, and industry associations. The role will also be responsible for overseeing the company's government affairs strategy to ensure regulatory compliance and promote favorable legislative outcomes that align with the company's business objectives.

What you get to do:

Government Affairs and Regulatory Strategy:

• Develop and lead the company's government relations strategy, focusing on establishing relationships with key government officials, agencies, and regulatory bodies.
• Advocate for the company's interests on public policy issues, including emissions regulations, electric vehicle (EV) incentives, and trade policies.
• Monitor and analyze legislative and regulatory developments in key sales and manufacturing markets assessing the impact on the company's operations and long-term goals.
• Represent the company at industry conferences, government hearings, and policy forums to influence legislative and regulatory outcomes.
• Collaborate with external lobbyists, industry associations, and trade groups to support favorable public policies on electric vehicle adoption.

Business Development:

• Develop and execute comprehensive strategies to drive sales, ready distribution models, and enable easy and convenient service for best widespread adoption.
• Select ideal distribution channels that enable favorable customer experiences and avoid regulatory pushback from incumbent players and competition.
• Identify and cultivate strategic partnerships, joint ventures, and acquisition opportunities to enhance Slate's brand recognition, association, and reputation.
• Work closely with the product development and marketing teams to ensure the current and planned vehicles are meeting and exceeding customer expectations.
• Lead negotiations for major deals, including long-term partnerships and collaborations with external entities.

Leadership and Management

• Provide leadership and guidance to your teams, ensuring alignment with the company's overall strategic vision.
• Serve as a contributing member of the leadership team, contributing to the development and execution of the company's near and long-term objectives.
• Report on business development progress and government affairs activities to the CEO, executive leadership team, and board of directors, providing regular updates and strategic recommendations.
• Mentor and develop a high-performing team capable of achieving ambitious growth targets and navigating complex regulatory environments.

What you bring to the team:

• Bachelor's degree in business administration, Political Science, Public Policy, or a related field. MBA or advanced degree preferred.
• 15+ years of experience in business development, corporate strategy, or government affairs, preferably within the automotive or related industries.
• Strong understanding of the automotive industry, including emerging trends such as electrification, autonomous driving, and mobility solutions.
• Proven track record of successfully negotiating high-value deals and partnerships and passing (or blocking) legislation for favorable outcomes.
• Extensive experience in government relations and regulatory strategy, with a strong network of contacts within government agencies and industry associations.
• Excellent leadership and team management skills, with the ability to inspire and guide cross-functional teams.
• Exceptional communication and presentation skills, with the ability to effectively advocate for the company's interests at the highest levels.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience with electric vehicle (EV) sales and policy including infrastructure and incentives.
• Knowledge of national and local incentives impacting electric vehicle adoption.
• Familiarity with the legislative process and ability to influence policy decisions.
• Ability to work cross functionally with other teams including legal, communications, marketing, finance, and others.
• Experience speaking on record to members of the press and at conferences, conventions, committee hearings, and testimonies.

We want to work with people that reflect the communities in which we operate:

• Slate is proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity and Affirmative Action employer. We do not discriminate based upon race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, veteran status, marital status, parental status, cultural background, organizational level, work styles, tenure and life experiences. Or for any other reason.
• Slate is committed to providing reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities in our job application procedures. If you need assistance or an accommodation due to a disability, you may contact us at [redacted] or [redacted].