Head of Government Relations

Location:

Ottawa, Ontario

Department:
Corporate / Government Affairs

The Canadian Strategic Missions Corporation (CSMC) is a mission driven space and defence company focused on building strategic, dual‑use systems that address critical challenges on Earth and enable sustained activity beyond it. We are building Canada's next great nuclear company, developing a micro nuclear reactor for remote applications like the Arctic, defence, and space exploration. We operate at the intersection of defence, energy, space, and advanced technology, with active programs in nuclear systems, quantum, deep‑tech R&D, and national‑scale infrastructure.

Our work requires sustained engagement with government stakeholders across defence, central agencies, and regulators. We are building long‑lived capabilities that demand credibility, trust, and disciplined execution.

CSMC is seeking a Head of Government Relations to lead and own the company’s engagement with the Government of Canada. This role is responsible for shaping and executing our federal government engagement strategy across defence, security, nuclear, and strategic technology portfolios.

The Head of Government Relations will serve as CSMC’s senior interface with departments and agencies including DND/CAF, PMO, central agencies, and nuclear and security stakeholders, ensuring alignment between government priorities and CSMC’s long‑term programs. This is a senior role requiring judgment, discretion, and the ability to operate effectively within Ottawa’s institutional environment.

• Own and execute CSMC’s federal government engagement strategy across defence, nuclear, and strategic technology domains.
• Serve as the primary senior point of contact with Government of Canada stakeholders, including departments, agencies, and central offices.
• Lead engagement with DND and defence‑related organizations, supporting alignment with national defence priorities and procurement pathways.
• Manage relationships and engagement strategies involving PMO and central agencies, with an understanding of decision‑making processes and timing.
• Support government funding, partnership, and program engagement across nuclear, defence, space, and strategic infrastructure initiatives.
• Coordinate internally with executive leadership, legal, engineering, and program teams to ensure consistent and accurate government messaging.
• Monitor and assess policy, legislative, and strategic developments relevant to CSMC’s programs and advise leadership accordingly.
• Represent CSMC in formal and informal government forums, briefings, and consultations as appropriate.
• Ensure all government engagement is conducted with professionalism, transparency, and adherence to applicable laws and ethical standards.

• Demonstrated experience engaging with the Government of Canada in senior or consequential contexts.
• Direct experience working with or within DND / defence‑related organizations, or in closely adjacent national security environments.
• Strong familiarity with PMO and central agency processes, decision‑making structures, and stakeholder dynamics.
• Experience operating in nuclear, defence, or other highly regulated sectors.
• The candidate must be a highly motivated self starter, capable of working through complex issues to solve problems that are not off the shelf. They should be capable of moving through setbacks and finding ways to persevere.
• Ability to represent an organization credibly with senior public servants, political staff, and institutional stakeholders.
• Excellent judgment, discretion, and written and verbal communication skills.

• Experience spanning both public‑sector and private‑sector roles.
• Familiarity with federal procurement, contribution agreements, or strategic partnership models.
• International experience is plus, including with NATO, NORAD, ESA, and other relevant organizations.
• Exposure to space, energy, or critical infrastructure programs.
• Existing professional relationships within relevant federal departments or agencies.

At CSMC, senior roles carry real responsibility and real consequence. The Head of Government Relations will…