James L. Hayes

Senior Vice President, Head of Global Government Affairs @ IonQ

Annapolis, Maryland, United States

About

Senior government affairs executive with expertise leveraging the intersection of business, policy, and public relations to elevate business performance, issue awareness, and brand visibility. Recognized talents in catalyzing legislative, appropriations, and thought leadership opportunities through the design and execution of targeted advocacy strategies and bipartisan partnerships. Motivational leader with public and private sector experience managing staff teams and cross-functional collaborations in evolving political climates.

Experience

  • Senior Vice President, Head of Global Government Affairs at IonQ
    Mar 2026 - Present · 5 mos

  • Tenable (9 yrs 3 mos)
    • Senior Vice President
      Feb 2022 - Mar 2026 · 4 yrs 2 mos

    • Vice President, Global Government Affairs
      2017 - Mar 2022 · 5 yrs 3 mos

      Building new government affairs program comprised of global, federal, state, and local strategies to support a fast-growing cybersecurity provider. Advise on business, policy, and public relations, while developing a multi-faceted staff and consultant team. Identify emerging industry innovations, and elevate company thought leadership and executive policy expertise through events as well as traditional and digital media.

  • Vice President, Government Affairs & Public Policy (EMC Corporation) at Dell EMC
    2010 - 2016 · 6 yrs

    Led government affairs strategy for a Fortune 150 global information technology company, managing a multi-level team of legal, legislative, cybersecurity, and administrative staff. Broadened policy platform and fortified internal infrastructure to advance target legislation, and interpreted policy for business impact in domestic and global markets. Designed thought leadership and earned media opportunities across traditional and digital outlets, and improved corporate transparency.

  • Director, Homeland Security at Motorola
    2007 - 2010 · 3 yrs

    Led legislative and advocacy strategies that drove profitability, while safeguarding homeland security programs and funding for business functions including public safety communications, defense, and international business. Leveraged federal and state legislative and budget processes to secure policy and financial victories that enabled business growth, created new sales markets, and advanced state-based initiatives.

  • United States Senate (10 yrs 1 mo)
    • Special Advisor to the Honorable Ted Stevens, President Pro Tempore
      2003 - 2007 · 4 yrs

      Advised President Pro Tempore on outreach efforts and liaison activities that cultivated relationships with minority communities, contractors, and small businesses. Supported efforts establishing authorization and funding for the creation of the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History & Culture.

    • Committee on Appropriations, Professional Staff Member
      1999 - 2007 · 8 yrs

      Advanced funding and policy issues for Senate Subcommittees on Homeland Security; Commerce, Justice, Science & Related Agencies; and Transportation. Developed appropriations legislation and amendments, supported financial and operational oversight of federal entities, and provided guidance and policy briefings to Subcommittee members.

    • Staff Assistant, Ted Stevens (R-Alaska)
      1997 - 1999 · 2 yrs

      Promoted Senator’s efforts across a broad scope of issues including education, immigration, military affairs, and economic affairs. Responsible for office constituent casework management. Routinely met with constituents and interest groups, and supported outreach and engagement with community organizations.