Chief of Staff, R&D

IonQ•Boston, MA

9h•Hybrid

About The Position

IonQ is developing the world's most powerful full-stack quantum computer based on trapped-ion technology. We are pushing past the limits of classical physics and current supercomputing technology to unlock a new era of computing. Quantum computing has the potential to impact every area of human society for the better. IonQ’s computers will soon redefine industries like medicine, materials science, finance, artificial intelligence, machine learning, cryptography, and more. IonQ is at the forefront of this technological revolution. IonQ is seeking an experienced and highly organized Chief of Staff to the Senior Vice President (SVP) of R&D. This critical role will serve as a strategic partner to the SVP, ensuring operational excellence, driving key initiatives, and facilitating effective communication across the Engineering organization and with other executive teams. The Chief of Staff will act as an extension of the SVP, ensuring the smooth execution of day-to-day operations and strategic projects, and actively seeking out and identifying high-impact opportunities to improve business processes across both the R&D organization and the company as a whole. In this role, you’ll work closely with all of the engineering leaders and cross-company divisions to define and track organizational priorities, coordinate intra-organizational operations, support cross-organizational requests, and ensure timely delivery of critical projects. This role reports to the SVP of R&D.

Requirements

10 years of program management experience, combined with some form of business process engineering
Bachelor's or Master’s degree in an engineering or related field; MBA/MS or equivalent operating experience
8+ years of experience in a fast-paced technology environment, with at least 3 years in a Chief of Staff, Senior Program Manager, or similar strategic operational role.
Proven experience working directly with senior executives (VP-level or above).
Pragmatic driver mentality, able to dig into the technical details and thoughtfully question and examine approaches for efficiency and speed
Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to articulate complex ideas clearly and concisely.
Exceptional analytical and problem-solving skills, with the interpersonal capability to ensure solutions are adopted and implemented
High attention to detail and organizational skills
High level of comfort working with senior hardware & software engineers, scientists & physicists, and product managers
Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively and cross-functionally across GTM, PMO, Engineering, Finance, etc. to support complex projects and workstreams
Experience in program/project management, especially in contexts focused on quick-turn, high-impact process improvement
High level of emotional intelligence and the ability to build strong, trusted relationships across all levels of an organization.
Passion for building scalable processes in a high growth, constantly changing environment
Ability to earn trust, maintain positive and professional relationships, and contribute to a culture of inclusion

Nice To Haves

Exceptional leadership and management skills, with the ability to develop and communicate a vision that inspires and motivates staff and aligns with business strategy
Proven ability to break down complex problems into coherent, actionable narratives to support efficient decision-making by senior leadership (VP+) at enterprise-scale
Ability to travel to multiple sites and locations occasionally
Proven experience working with both software and hardware teams to develop first-of-a-kind systems and products
Knowledge of quantum computing, networking or sensing technologies

Responsibilities

Strategic Partner, Advisor, and Operator: Work closely with the SVP to develop and execute on the R&D organization's strategic priorities.
Provide data-driven insights and recommendations to inform decision-making.
Anticipate challenges and proactively identify solutions to keep initiatives on track.
Represent the SVP in internal and external meetings as needed, providing updates and gathering information.
Serve as a key driver on strategic, high-impact projects cutting across IonQ’s multiple product verticals.
Operational Excellence: Oversee the preparation of materials for executive meetings, board presentations, internal reviews, and external partners.
Drive the agenda and facilitate productive outcomes for leadership team meetings.
Identify and implement process improvements to enhance efficiency and collaboration within R&D.
Communication & Collaboration: Facilitate clear and consistent communication from the SVP to the broader organization, including the R&D team and leaders in other divisions.
Act as a central point of contact for internal and external stakeholders interacting with the SVP.
Collaborate with other Chiefs of Staff and functional leaders to ensure cross-organizational alignment.
Draft internal communications, presentations, and reports on behalf of the SVP.