Head of State and Government Relations, East

In the time it takes you to read this job description, RapidSOS will have handled ~1,380 emergencies.

At RapidSOS, we are committed to using technology to build a safer, stronger future and working together to save lives. We're in an exciting phase of growth, welcoming new members from across the globe to our mission-driven, ambitious, and inclusive team. Our work is founded on our values of trust and safety, pioneering, urgency, and purpose over pride, all of which support a company culture where people can innovate, collaborate, grow, and, above all, make an impact. If that sounds like an exciting opportunity, we want to hear from you!

At RapidSOS, we are empowering safer, stronger communities with faster, data-driven emergency response. In partnership with public safety, RapidSOS created the world's first intelligent safety platform that securely links life-saving data from 540 million+ connected devices, apps and sensors and 200+ technology partners directly to RapidSOS Safety Agents, 911, and first responders globally. The platform is used by over 21,000+ first responder agencies in six countries and supports 171 million+ emergencies each year. Whether there's an unsafe moment or an emergency, RapidSOS Ready devices, vehicles, homes, or buildings deliver essential data to the right place when it matters most.

What this role is about:

We are seeking a dynamic and strategic Head of State and Government Relations, East to lead and manage our state relationships. This role will focus on developing and maintaining critical relationships with state 911 directors, staff, and board members, as well as key vendors and consultants in each state. The ideal candidate will act as a trusted advisor, deeply understanding the state's issues, funding sources, legislation, and strategic impact on our business and partners.

What you'll do:

Strategic Relationship Management:

• Develop and maintain strong relationships with state 911 directors, staff, and board members.
• Create and sustain relationships with key vendors and consultants within each state.
• Serve as the critical advisor to PSG Sales, collaborating closely to co-create state strategies.
• Represent the company at state board meetings and present to state boards/committees regularly.
• Conduct quarterly business reviews (QBRs) with top ~15 states.
  
  

Legislative and Funding Expertise:

• Understand state funding sources, distribution rules, allowable expenses, and legislation that governs 911 and funding.
• Track 911, school safety, and IoT legislation and comprehend its strategic impact on our B2B business partners and 911 services.
• Monitor state technical and legislative subcommittees.
  
  

Business Development:

• Support PSG Sales in creating state strategies and presenting to state boards/committees.
• Play a pivotal role in our expansion into Real-Time Crime Centers, Emergency Management, and beyond.
  
  

Key Relationships:

• Own and manage the NASNA relationship.
• Maintain and build relationships with those who hold the financial power within the states.
  
  

What we're looking for in our ideal candidate:

• Proven experience in state relations, particularly with 911 state directors, public safety, or a closely related field.
• Deep understanding of state 911 funding mechanisms, legislation, and strategic impacts on business operations.
• Exceptional relationship-building skills with the ability to influence and advise at all levels.
• Strong presentation and communication skills.
• Ability to travel as required to attend state board meetings and meet with key stakeholders, up to 50%
  
  

What we offer:

• The chance to work with a passionate team on solving one of the largest challenges globally
• Competitive salary and benefits and equity participation
• A dynamic, flexible and fun start-up work environment with a highly talented team
  
  

RapidSOS is proud to be an equal opportunity workplace. We are committed to equal employment opportunity regardless of race, color, ancestry, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, age, citizenship, marital status, disability, or Veteran status.

Interested in the role but you don't meet 100% of the requirements? We'd love to hear from you! We encourage you to apply; we'd be excited to see if your unique skill set and experience could be a match.