Lead, Government Affairs - APAC

📋 Description

• • Cohere is at the forefront of artificial intelligence, dedicated to scaling intelligence to serve humanity. We develop and deploy cutting-edge frontier models that empower developers and enterprises to build innovative AI systems. Our work is crucial for enabling magical experiences such as advanced content generation, sophisticated semantic search, Retrieval-Augmented Generation (RAG), and intelligent agents, driving the widespread adoption of AI.
• • We are a company that obsesses over its creations. Every team member is empowered and expected to contribute to enhancing our models' capabilities and maximizing the value they deliver to our customers. Our culture is one of hard work, rapid iteration, and a relentless focus on doing what's best for our clients.
• • Cohere is comprised of world-class researchers, engineers, designers, and other professionals, each a leader in their respective fields. We firmly believe that a diverse range of perspectives is not just beneficial but essential for building truly exceptional products. Join us in our ambitious mission to shape the future of AI.
• • As a rapidly growing company in the dynamic and fast-evolving artificial intelligence sector, Cohere is building a robust Government Affairs and Public Policy (GAPP) team. We are seeking individuals with the drive, expertise, and vision to navigate and influence a nascent and unique policy landscape for enterprise AI.
• • We are looking for a seasoned Government Affairs professional to spearhead our APAC government affairs strategy. The ideal candidate will possess a proven track record of success, demonstrate strong analytical skills, a collaborative spirit, unwavering drive, and a genuine passion for engaging with and shaping the evolving public policy discourse at the critical intersection of enterprise technology and artificial intelligence.
• • This is an unparalleled opportunity to join us at a pivotal moment and play a key role in building this critical function and defining the future trajectory of AI policy.
• • As our Lead for Asia Government Affairs, you will be instrumental in developing and executing Cohere's strategic engagement with governments and policymakers across the APAC region.
• • You will partner closely with Cohere’s senior leadership, legal counsel, public policy experts, and responsible AI teams to architect, coordinate, and implement a comprehensive government affairs and stakeholder engagement strategy. This strategy will focus on advocating for responsible AI policies and addressing related critical issues.
• • A key responsibility will be to elevate Cohere’s profile, establishing us as the premier thought leader and the industry partner of choice on matters concerning safe and responsible artificial intelligence policy, regulation, and enforcement.
• • You will be responsible for guiding and coordinating Cohere’s political engagement within our priority markets across APAC. This involves cultivating robust relationships with key government officials, lawmakers, regulators, and other influential third-party stakeholders, and representing the company's interests to shape the development of AI legislation, regulations, and public policy.
• • You will collaborate closely with our public sector sales teams, providing crucial insights and support in shaping technology policies, particularly within highly regulated sectors such as banking, healthcare, and other critical industries.
• • A proactive approach is essential. You will continuously monitor the policy landscape, report on emerging trends and governmental initiatives, and work collaboratively with cross-functional teams to develop thoughtful and effective responses to regulatory issues that could impact Cohere’s business operations or product offerings.
• • In close partnership with Cohere’s public relations and marketing teams, you will contribute to crafting and disseminating effective messaging that clearly articulates Cohere’s strategic positions on artificial intelligence policy and regulation.
• • You will be tasked with managing external government relations consultants and actively participating in relevant trade associations, ensuring Cohere's voice is heard and effectively represented.
• • Ensuring strict compliance of all lobbying and political activities with applicable local laws and regulations across the APAC region is a fundamental requirement of this role.
• • This role demands a deep understanding of technology policy, particularly the nuances of artificial intelligence, its diverse applications, and its societal implications. You will need proven experience in understanding, debating, and actively shaping relevant policies and regulations within the APAC region.
• • Experience in building, leading, and advising government affairs teams, coupled with a strong ability to collaborate effectively with both internal and external stakeholders, is crucial.
• • You must possess a strong aptitude for navigating complex and dynamic political and policy debates across multiple jurisdictions, adeptly prioritizing critical issues and distilling key messages for diverse audiences, from technical experts to high-level policymakers.
• • A growth mindset, a proactive, self-starter attitude, and the ability to work independently while consistently achieving objectives are essential qualities.
• • Exceptional written and verbal communication skills are paramount, with a demonstrated ability to draft compelling policy documents, insightful thought leadership content, and clear, persuasive customer communications.
• • A minimum of 15 years of proven leadership experience in roles directly engaging with or working within government bodies, public interest groups, trade associations, or corporate public policy organizations is required.
• • A Bachelor's degree in Law, Public Policy, International Relations, or a closely related field is necessary.
• • Regional expertise in key APAC markets such as Japan, Korea, and/or Singapore, along with multilingual capabilities, is a mandatory requirement for this position.
• • We strongly encourage individuals to apply even if their experience doesn't perfectly align with every listed qualification. We value potential and diverse backgrounds.
• • Cohere is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive work environment. We welcome applicants from all backgrounds and are dedicated to providing equal employment opportunities. Accommodations during the recruitment process can be requested via the provided form.