Vice President, Government Relations SR&ED & Public Sector Affairs

About the Role

Yorktown Search Partners is conducting a confidential search on behalf of a client for a Vice President, Government Relations. This executive will lead government engagement, optimize SR&ED tax credits, secure grants, and maximize public funding opportunities. The role includes a performance-based compensation structure, with deferred earnings directly linked to financing success, awarded grants, and approved SR&ED claims.

Key Responsibilities

• Government Relations & Policy Strategy
  • Develop and execute a comprehensive government relations strategy to strengthen relationships with federal, provincial, and municipal decision-makers.
  • Advocate for policy initiatives, tax incentives, and funding programs that align with corporate objectives.
  • Monitor and assess regulatory changes, emerging funding trends, and compliance requirements.
• SR&ED & Public Funding Execution
  • Lead and maximize SR&ED tax credit claims, ensuring compliance and full eligibility.
  • Identify and secure additional government grants, subsidies, and non-dilutive funding.
  • Work closely with internal teams, consultants, and government agencies to streamline the funding process.
• Strategic Financing & Performance-Based Compensation

• Compensation will be structured around:
  • Successful SR&ED claims
  • Government grants & funding awards
  • Secured financing through public programs

• Align public funding opportunities with overall corporate growth and financial strategy.
• Stakeholder Engagement & Representation
  • Build and maintain relationships with government agencies, policymakers, and funding institutions.
  • Represent the company in policy discussions, industry forums, and regulatory engagements.
  • Position the company as a thought leader in government-backed innovation and public funding strategies.

Ideal Candidate Profile

• 10+ years of experience in government relations, public affairs, policy development, or public funding programs.
• Expertise in SR&ED tax incentives, grant applications, and securing non-dilutive financing.
• Strong network with government agencies, policymakers, and regulatory bodies.
• Demonstrated success in securing public funding, structuring financial incentives, and maximizing SR&ED claims.
• Background in technology, infrastructure, finance, life sciences, or energy is highly preferred.
• Strong negotiation, leadership, and communication skills with the ability to operate at an executive level.

Compensation Structure

• Deferred compensation based on:
  • Successful SR&ED claims
  • Approved government grants and funding awards
  • Secured financing through public programs

Competitive upside determined by performance and results.

Why Apply?

• Confidential Executive Opportunity Influence high-level strategy in a growing organization.
• Performance-Based Earnings Directly impacted by financing success, grant approvals, and SR&ED claims.
• Impactful Role Drive public policy engagement, funding strategies, and regulatory positioning.

Confidential Applications Only

To apply, please submit your resume and cover letter.