Government Relations & State Partnerships

Summary

Join Presence, a leading provider of teletherapy solutions, as the Head of Government Relations & State Partnerships. This senior commercial leadership role reports to the VP of Communications and involves designing a strategy to expand revenue in target states by leveraging state education budgets for special education. You will build relationships with state decision-makers, navigate complex RFPs and procurement processes, and collaborate cross-functionally to achieve revenue growth. This is a unique opportunity to build a new business vertical, directly engaging with governors' offices and other key stakeholders. You will have significant influence on the company's top-line growth and will be responsible for strategy and revenue outcomes. The role requires navigating a dynamic commercial space with substantial market potential and involves significant travel.

Requirements

• 8+ years of commercial leadership experience (business development, partnerships, state-level sales, or market expansion)
• 3+ years of experience directly working with government agencies, ideally with significant state-level engagement
• Demonstrated ability to launch and scale new business lines or market verticals from inception
• Deep knowledge of state government funding, procurement, and partnership dynamics
• Senior-level presence with the ability to influence both commercial and government stakeholders
• Proven track record managing external consultants, lobbyists, and advocacy partners
• Operates with high autonomy, GM-style ownership, and strong commercial judgment
• Excellent deal-making, negotiation, and cross-functional leadership capabilities

Responsibilities

• Build and Execute State-Level GTM Strategy
• Design and own the revenue growth strategy in key states based on market size, education policy trends and strategic fit
• Collaborate cross-functionally (sales, product, legal, marketing, communications, policy, clinical) to evolve the GTM strategy and build Presence’s positioning in these markets
• Generate Revenue Opportunities Through New Partnerships
• Cultivate executive-level relationships with state decision-makers and influencers
• Identify and shape state-level contracts, partnerships, and business development opportunities
• Navigate complex RFPs, procurement processes, grant programs, and budget cycles
• Provide strategic input to align go-to-market messaging with buyer personas, empowering the sales team with the knowledge and resources needed to close high-value opportunities
• Market Access & Advocacy
• Proactively explore and address regulatory or policy barriers
• Manage and deploy external lobbyists and advocacy consultants where needed
• Stay ahead of evolving state-level budget priorities and funding mechanisms
• Industry Leadership & Ecosystem Building
• Represent the company at industry forums, policy convenings, and state association meetings
• Build influential networks across government, public-private partnerships, and associations
• Act as a senior commercial leader internally and externally

Preferred Qualifications

Experience and expertise in the education sector strongly preferred

Benefits

• Comprehensive Medical Coverage includes Dental and Vision
• Flexible PTO
• 11 Company Paid Holidays
• Benefits Package: including 401K savings plan and access to an Employee Assistance Program
• $500 home office stipend
• Paid Life insurance, AD&D, and disability benefits
• Paid parental and caregiving leave
• Eligibility to apply for a Professional Development Scholarship
• Inclusive Culture: We are intentional about creating a culture that is fun and inclusive
• This role is also eligible to participate in Presence’s equity plan subject to the terms of the applicable plans and policies
• Salary range is $150,000-175,000 plus variable commission