Vice President, Government Affairs

Vice President of Government AffairsMP Materials is rebuilding American industrial capability for a new era of autonomy, robotics, and electrification. We are the only U.S. company with a fully integrated rare earth supply chain—from mining and refining to advanced metal and magnet manufacturing. Our products include both the critical materials used to make permanent magnets and the finished magnets themselves—enabling next-generation technologies in robotics, automation, aerospace, transportation, defense, and energy systems. These materials are the foundation of physical AI—the convergence of computation, movement, and control.We hire ambitious, mission-driven people who want to tackle complex challenges and shape the future of strategic industries. Our culture is rooted in teamwork, resiliency, and integrity, with a deep commitment to operational excellence and national purpose. MP is rapidly evolving from a materials producer into a leading U.S. manufacturer—and our people are driving that transformation.MP Materials is seeking a strategic, sharp, and highly motivated Vice President of Government Affairs to establish and lead the company's government affairs function in Washington, D.C. This is a new leadership role reporting directly to the EVP of Corporate Affairs & Chief Communications Officer. The VP will serve as MP's principal representative to the U.S. government, leading engagement with Congress, the Executive Branch, and federal agencies to advance policies that strengthen America's manufacturing and defense industrial base.The ideal candidate is a self-starter with a strong sense of ownership, able to work independently in a fast-paced, entrepreneurial environment. They bring deep experience on Capitol Hill—preferably with the Armed Services or Appropriations Committees—and understand the intersection of industrial policy, federal procurement, and supply chain resilience. A confident communicator and trusted advisor, this person will shape policy strategy, represent the company in public forums, manage external consultants, and build a high-impact government affairs program from the ground up.Position Responsibilities:Serve as MP Materials' primary advocate in Washington, D.C., building and managing trusted relationships across Congress, the Executive Branch, and industry associations.Shape and execute MP's public policy strategy to support the company's objectives in mining, refining, and advanced manufacturing.Monitor and analyze legislative, regulatory, and budget developments with a focus on national security, energy, tax, trade, and environmental policy.Engage directly with policymakers and staff, including preparing and delivering testimony, briefings, and public statements on behalf of the company.Develop and maintain strong bipartisan relationships with key congressional offices, particularly on the Armed Services, Appropriations, Energy & Commerce, and Ways & Means Committees.Manage and coordinate the work of external lobbyists, consultants, and trade associations to ensure aligned messaging and execution.Advise internal leadership on policy risks and opportunities; prepare policy briefs, talking points, and position papers.Represent MP in relevant coalitions, industry forums, and public engagements to build the company's visibility and influence.Work cross-functionally with legal, commercial, communications, and technical teams to ensure policy alignment with business strategy.Travel as needed.Other duties as assigned.Basic Qualifications:Bachelor's degree required; law or advanced degree preferred.7+ years of relevant experience in public policy, legislative affairs, or government relations, including significant time on Capitol Hill.Demonstrated expertise in U.S. legislative and regulatory processes, including appropriations, authorizations, and federal procurement.Strong network of bipartisan relationships with congressional offices and relevant executive agencies.Excellent oral and written communication skills, including the ability to represent the company with clarity and confidence in public settings.Experience managing external lobbying firms and consultants.A deep understanding of industrial supply chains, the defense sector, and U.S. economic competitiveness.Active or prior U.S. security clearance a plus.Desired Qualities:Entrepreneurial mindset with the ability to build and scale a government affairs function.Proven ability to navigate complex, high-stakes political and policy environments.Confident public speaker with the judgment and presence to represent MP with senior officials, media, and industry stakeholders.Experience with Armed Services and/or Appropriations Committees strongly preferred.Previous experience in corporate government affairs or a trade association is a plus.Mission-driven, highly organized, intellectually curious, and collaborative.Able to navigate complex, high-stakes policy environments and build consensus across stakeholders.MP Materials is proud to be an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. Underrepresented groups/women/disabled/veterans are encouraged to apply. Candidates whose disabilities make them unable to meet the position's requirements will still be considered qualified if they can perform the essential functions of the job with reasonable accommodation.Your right to work – In compliance with federal law, all persons hired will be required to verify identity and eligibility to work in the United States and to complete the required employment verification document form upon hire.