Director of Sales and Innovation

Who We Are Plug and Play is a global innovation platform and earlystage venture capital firm. Our mission is to make innovation open to anyone, anywhere. Each year, thousands of startups engage with our corporate and government partners through curated innovation programs and investment opportunities. With 65+ locations worldwide and a network of 550+ partners across 25+ industries, we help startups scale and help corporates, investors, and government agencies innovate. Our partners include organizations such as LockheedMartin, Shell, Walmart, Airbus, Pfizer, Colgate, and PepsiCo, among many others. Our investment portfolio includes early bets on PayPal, Dropbox, Honey, GuardantHealth, BigID, Rappi, Flutterwave, Hippo, and ApplyBoard. In WashingtonDC, Plug and Play is partnering with Consortium Management Group (CMG) to launch a federal innovation hub focused on connecting startups and technologies with U.S. government agencies and defense consortium members. The hub will serve as a gateway for emerging technologies in AI, Energy, Cybersecurity, Mobility, and Advanced Manufacturing, driving collaboration and accelerating government adoption. Who Were Looking For We are seeking a Director of Sales and Innovation to lead the launch and growth of Plug and Plays Washington DC presence in partnership with CMG. This senior role combines federal business development, ecosystem relationship building, and program delivery through curated Dealflow sessions and innovation engagements. The ideal candidate has experience working within the federal innovation and contracting ecosystem including OTAs, SBIR/STTR, DIU, AFWERX, and other government tech transition pathways and brings a deep understanding of how to bridge startups, government buyers, and industry partners. How Youll Make a Difference Sales & Growth Build and manage a pipeline of federal agencies, prime contractors, and consortium members to participate in Plug and Plays innovation activities. Lead business development and partnership efforts in the DC region, securing funding and engagement from both public and privatesector entities. Own the P&L for the DC operation, ensuring longterm financial sustainability and growth. Collaborate closely with CMG leadership to identify technology gaps, priority focus areas, and engagement strategies for consortium members. Program & Dealflow Leadership Design and deliver curated Dealflow sessions connecting startups and technologies to federal endusers and consortium members across multiple sectors (e.g., Energy, AI, Cyber, Health, Defense, Mobility). Coordinate with Plug and Plays vertical leaders and subject matter experts worldwide to source the most relevant startups for each session. Facilitate crossvertical collaboration to ensure tailored startup recommendations for government and defense stakeholders. Track impact metrics, success stories, and technology transition outcomes. Ecosystem Engagement Cultivate relationships with federal innovation entities (DIU, AFWERX, DARPA, ARPAH, NIST, DOE, DHSS&T, etc.), as well as local universities, labs, VCs, and consortia. Represent Plug and Play at DCarea government, defense, and innovation events, positioning the company as a trusted bridge between startups and federal needs. Serve as a thought leader and connector across the DC innovation community. Deliver reports and maintain strong relationships with CMG and federal stakeholders. Required Experience Bachelors degree in business, technology, public policy, or a related field. 57+ years of experience in federal innovation, government contracting, or technology commercialization. Proven track record in partnership development and stakeholder engagement with government or defense agencies. Familiarity with federal innovation and acquisition pathways (OTAs, SBIR/STTR, BAA, DIU, etc.) strongly preferred. Experience engaging with dualuse startups and deeptech innovation ecosystems. Excellent communication, relationship management, and presentation skills. Seniority level Director Employment type Fulltime Job function Sales and Business Development Industries Venture Capital and Private Equity Principals #J-18808-Ljbffr