Director, Public Policy

Perplexity • Washington, DC

1d • $265,000 - $325,000

About The Position

Perplexity is hiring a Director, Public Policy as a founding member of its policy team. Based in Washington, D.C., the role will build and scale the company's engagement with governments, regulators, and policy communities worldwide. The Director will help set policy priorities with company leadership and operationalize public positions established by Communications and executive leadership. The position calls for hands-on coordination, resourcefulness, persistence, and attention to detail.

Requirements

• At least 10 years of relevant experience in public policy, government affairs, or legislative advocacy.
• A record of building and scaling a policy function, program, or team, ideally at a growing technology company.
• Experience managing policy engagement across multiple jurisdictions, including the U.S. and at least one other major market.
• Experience representing a company, association, or clients before government.
• A self-built network and evidence of an ability to establish credibility and relationships in new markets.
• Strong writing and judgment, including the ability to explain complex issues clearly, advise senior leaders, and know when to escalate.
• A hands-on approach, including the ability to write briefs, take meetings, and manage details while building for future growth.
• Experience coordinating internal teams and external advisers across regions, with clear priorities and accountability.

Nice To Haves

• Government service.
• Experience hiring, managing, or developing policy professionals.
• Experience with AI, privacy, competition, copyright, or other technology policy issues.
• Experience on Capitol Hill, in the executive branch, or in a comparable government role outside the U.S.
• Registered lobbying experience and familiarity with lobbying disclosure and ethics requirements.

Responsibilities

• Turn company priorities into a global engagement plan with clear market priorities, owners, and measures of progress.
• Establish stakeholder tracking, policy monitoring, and briefing standards to coordinate a growing team across regions.
• Engage policymakers, regulators, trade associations, think tanks, and civil society in the U.S. and key international markets.
• Monitor policymakers’ priorities and emerging debates, identify risks and opportunities, and share relevant insights with the company.
• Advance approved company positions through direct engagement and coalitions, adapting to local contexts and applicable lobbying and ethics requirements.
• Translate political and regulatory developments into business implications and recommendations for leadership.
• Inform and execute the strategy set by Communications and executive leadership, coordinating messages and engagement across markets.
• Coordinate external advisers and partners, recommend future hiring priorities, and develop colleagues as the team grows.
• Prepare leaders for government meetings and organize briefings, roundtables, and product demonstrations with clear objectives and follow-through.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Director
• Education Level: No Education Listed