Kela is a defense technology startup pioneering a new model for the defense industry - built on openness, modularity, speed, and delivering real operational impact. We combine cutting-edge technology with deep operational insights and close collaboration with defense stakeholders.

We are seeking a Government Relations Specialist to lead our engagement with Israeli government and regulatory stakeholders, with a particular emphasis on the Ministry of Defense and related agencies.This role will shape and manage the company’s government engagement strategy and execution, ensuring strong alignment between Kela’s strategic objectives and the evolving public policy landscape.

Responsibilities

• Monitor, analyze, and interpret relevant legislation, regulatory trends, budgets, and government policy processes that impact Kela’s mission and operations.
• Influence legislation, regulation, and policy affecting Kela’s objectives.
• Build and maintain long-term, trust-based relationships with senior government officials and decision makers, especially within the Ministry of Defense and related ministries / agencies.
• Coordinate meetings, briefings, and executive-level engagements with government officials at the ministry and parliamentary levels.
• Draft policy briefs, testimony, position papers, legislative comments, talking points and professional presentations in both Hebrew and English.
• Manage interactions with Israeli trade associations, think tanks, and advocacy coalitions.
• Support strategic communications efforts related to public policy, national security and defense innovation.

• 4-5 years of experience in government relations, public policy, or regulatory affairs, including engagement with government ministries or agencies.
• Established relationships with stakeholders in the Ministry of Defense and/or Knesset.
• Deep understanding of the Israeli government decision-making process, especially as it relates to defense and security sectors.
• Demonstrated ability to work independently and lead cross-organizational initiatives.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills in Hebrew and English.
• Proven success building and sustaining trust-based relationships with senior stakeholders.

Nice to have:

• Experience working with the Ministry of Defense or other defense / security bodies
• Academic background in law, public policy, or a related field
• Familiarity with technology or innovation ecosystems, particularly defense-tech or dual-use technologies.