External Relations Manager

About the role

Q-Block Computing is seeking an External Relations Manager to bridge its quantum technology capabilities with federal, defence and enterprise partners across Canada. Reporting to the CEO, the role combines strategic insight into government policy with commercial acumen to drive revenue from public‑sector contracts.

Key responsibilities

• Lead engagement with federal departments, especially DND, CAF and ISED, and expand to other defence and innovation stakeholders.
• Build and maintain relationships with senior officials, program managers, procurement officers and political staff.
• Monitor and interpret political, legislative and procurement developments, translating them into actionable recommendations.
• Identify and pursue opportunities through RFIs, RFPs, RFQs and unsolicited proposals in defence, security and critical infrastructure.
• Develop joint‑pursuit strategies with prime contractors and technology partners.
• Support preparation of capability briefs, proposals and policy papers in collaboration with technical leadership.
• Represent Q‑Block at conferences, trade shows, government consultations and stakeholder forums.
• Coordinate advocacy efforts with MPs, Senate committees and advisory bodies in compliance with the Lobbying Act.
• Maintain a structured pipeline of opportunities using CRM tools and provide regular briefings to the CEO and board.

Required profile

• Bachelor’s degree in Political Science, Public Policy, International Relations, Business or related field.
• 3–5 years of experience in government relations, public affairs, defence business development or a comparable government‑facing role, preferably based in Ottawa.
• Proven track record of building effective relationships with senior government officials and industry partners.
• Strong understanding of federal procurement processes and the policy cycle.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills for senior‑level audiences.

Required skills

• Experience with Government of Canada procurement portals such as CanadaBuys and SAP Ariba.
• Proficiency with CRM platforms like Salesforce and HubSpot.

What we offer

• Extended health care including dental and vision coverage.
• Life insurance.
• Equal‑opportunity workplace with accommodations available on request.