(Senior) Government Programs Manager

What we’re looking for

We are looking for an experienced Senior Government Programs Manager to lead our Government Programs team at the intersection of technology, innovation, and the public sector. In this role, you will own the strategy and execution of complex programs, tenders, and studies across national and European levels, while acting as a trusted counterpart to ministries, agencies, and EU institutions. You will translate ambiguous policy and regulatory environments into clear strategic positioning, lead high-stakes proposals, and shape how we engage with the defence, policy, and innovation ecosystem. This position is designed for candidates who bring proven judgment, can operate independently at senior stakeholder level, and want to help build out a growing function within a fast-moving startup.

The day-to-day

• Experienced professional with a strong track record in government programs, defence ecosystems and technology-driven innovation
• Own the end-to-end strategy, positioning, and execution of national and EU-level programs, studies and tenders
• Act as primary point of contact for ministries, public agencies, EU institutions and industry partners; represent the company in high-level meetings
• Break down complex regulatory and policy environments and translate them into actionable strategy and recommendations for leadership
• Oversee the preparation of proposals, briefings and presentations at executive and government level, ensuring precision and strategic clarity
• Guide and mentor junior team members, and drive continuous improvement of program processes and internal knowledge bases
• Ensure coordination, tracking and delivery across multiple concurrent programs, balancing timelines, quality and stakeholder expectations

You should apply if you

• Several years of relevant experience in government programs, public sector consulting, defence/aerospace, EU affairs or a comparable field
• Background in economics, political science, security studies, business, engineering, law or a related field
• Strong analytical mindset combined with the judgment to prioritize and make decisions under ambiguity
• Confident, clear and professional communication in German and English, including at senior/government level
• Confident use of PowerPoint, Excel, Word and AI-supported tools
• High ownership, leadership presence, and the ability to operate effectively in a dynamic, fast-growing environment
• Fluent English required; fluent German strongly preferred (C1/C2)

Nice to haves

• Existing relationships within German or European defence, aerospace or public sector institutions
• Deep familiarity with public sector programs, EU funding instruments (e.g. EDF, Horizon Europe) or research frameworks
• Demonstrated success leading or winning competitive tenders or grant applications

What we offer

• Real impact & ownership: Shape high-tech defense systems and take responsibility from day one.
• Mission-driven environment: Work on technologies that matter for European security and sovereignty.
• Competitive package: Competitive salary, EGYM Wellpass, corporate benefits, and equity options aligned with role and level.
• Deep tech environment: Get hands-on experience with cutting-edge drone technology and real operational use cases.
• Grow fast: Steep learning curve for juniors, strategic influence and leadership opportunities for seniors.
• Startup mindset meets defence innovation: flat hierarchies, fast decisions, and space for your ideas.
• Flexibility: Flexible hours, remote options, and relocation support.
• Strong team: International, driven colleagues and a culture built on exchange, trust, and shared success.