Account Manager - Government Relations

Kraken Kinetics•Pinehurst, NC

1d•Onsite

About The Position

Kraken Kinetics designs and manufactures advanced kinetic solutions that enable modern warfighting capabilities for the United States Armed Forces and its allies. We specialize in mission-tailored warheads and firing systems for unmanned and autonomous weapon platforms, delivering production-ready solutions at speed to address urgent national security challenges. Our team brings decades of specialized Department of War experience across the full lifecycle of kinetic system development—from concept and design through testing, manufacturing, and operational deployment. Built on a foundation of work that helped lead the DoW into the era of kinetic drones, Kraken Kinetics combines commercial agility with deep technical expertise to deliver DEFINITIVE LETHALITY ™ when it matters most. POSITION SUMMARY Title: Account Manager – Government Relations Location : On-site at our Pinehurst, NC area facility Kraken Kinetics is looking for a driven, high-ownership Account Manager to help us expand our footprint across the Department of War and broader U.S. Government. This is not a passive relationship management role—this is a front-line position for someone who wants to build, move fast, and directly impact mission success in the UxS space. Reporting to the Head of Strategic Partnerships, you will work directly with government stakeholders—including program offices, operators, and contracting entities—while coordinating internally with product, engineering, and leadership teams. Success in this role requires initiative, strong communication, and the ability to move work forward in a dynamic environment.

Requirements

Advanced degree in relevant field (MA/MS/MBA) or equivalent practical experience
Experience working with USG, DoD, or defense-related programs
Strong communication and relationship management skills
Ability to manage multiple priorities and drive tasks to completion
Experience supporting or contributing to government proposals or solicitations
Demonstrated ability to work cross-functionally with technical and non-technical teams
Ability to solve complex problems with creative solutions
Proven success in dynamic or shifting operational environments
Ability to travel as needed for customer engagement and events
US Citizen

Nice To Haves

Experience in UxS, autonomy, robotics, or defense technology sectors
Expertise in the DoD acquisition processes (FAR/DFARS, APFIT, OTA, etc.)
Working knowledge of export control regulations, including ITAR/EAR
Deep understanding of defense policy, resource allocation (PPBE), and acquisition strategy, with ability to navigate and shape outcomes within complex bureaucratic environments
Experience supporting deployments, demonstrations, or operational testing
Demonstrated ability to translate complex operational or technical concepts (High-voltage vs. low-voltage fuzing, terminal engagement concepts, mission planning) into structured frameworks that inform programmatic or strategic decision-making
Experience working in a startup or high-growth environment

Responsibilities

Serve as primary point of contact for assigned government accounts
Orchestrate complex, multi-stakeholder initiatives across government, industry, and internal teams, ensuring alignment, execution discipline, and delivery against mission-critical objectives
Coordinate responses to RFIs, RFPs, BAAs, and other government solicitations
Support Compliance Team with requirements related to government contract deliverables
Support logistics for demos, tests, and deployments
Track program status, risks, and user feedback to ensure successful execution
Represent Kraken at industry days, conferences, and customer engagements
Maintain accurate records of engagements, opportunities, and account activity
Ensure compliance with government contracting, reporting requirements, and applicable export control regulations (e.g., ITAR)