Lead - US Government Affairs & Public Policy

Cohere • Washington, DC

6d • $175,000 - $330,000 • Hybrid

About The Position

Cohere is seeking a Government Affairs professional to lead its US government affairs strategy. This role involves shaping the public policy environment for enterprise AI, with the flexibility to expand into emerging markets in the Americas. The ideal candidate is analytical, collaborative, driven, and passionate about the intersection of enterprise technology, artificial intelligence, and public policy. This is an opportunity to build and lead the Government Affairs and Public Policy (GAPP) team during a dynamic period in AI development.

Requirements

• Deep AI Policy Expertise: Exceptional ability to dig deep on artificial intelligence policy, its applications, and its risks, with a proven track record of shaping relevant tech policies and regulations.
• Political & Corporate Experience: 10 to 15+ years of proven leadership experience blending corporate government affairs roles within the technology sector and direct political or government experience.
• Federal & State Mastery: Extensive experience navigating intricate and fluid political debates across both US federal and state jurisdictions, with an adaptability to new regulatory environments.
• Bias for Action: A growth mindset and a self-starter attitude with the ability to work independently, prioritize issues, and push projects over the finish line.
• Exceptional Communication: Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with a proven ability to distill complex AI policy into compelling documents, thought leadership, and briefings for a variety of audiences.
• Bachelor's degree in Law, Public Policy, Political Science, or a related field.

Nice To Haves

• Defense & Military Background: Prior experience in or working closely with the defense sector, military, or national security apparatus is highly preferred given the strategic importance of AI to these fields.
• Regional Acumen: Experience navigating tech policy, trade, or digital regulatory frameworks in Latin America, along with professional fluency in Spanish or Portuguese.
• Procurement Experience: Proven experience supporting public-sector sales and government procurement teams.

Responsibilities

• Lead US Advocacy: Partner closely with Cohere’s senior leadership, legal, public policy, and responsible AI teams to develop, coordinate, and implement a government affairs strategy across both US federal and state levels. For the right leader, there is opportunity to expand this advocacy to support our strategic growth across Latin America.
• Dig Deep on AI Policy: Serve as the internal and external expert on US AI policy while monitoring key regulatory shifts in neighboring markets. You will proactively report on trends and work with cross-functional teams to craft thoughtful responses to governmental initiatives, regulatory issues, and legislative drafts that impact Cohere’s business.
• Cultivate Key Relationships: Guide and coordinate Cohere’s political engagement by cultivating deep relationships and representing the company with key lawmakers, regulators, federal agencies, state leaders, and regional trade bodies.
• Bridge the Corporate and Political: Leverage your dual experience in both the political and corporate spheres to translate complex technical and business objectives into effective policy advocacy.
• Support Strategic Growth: Work closely with public sector sales teams in shaping technology and procurement policies in regulated sectors, ensuring Cohere is a trusted resource and partner for government stakeholders.
• Manage External Partners: Direct government relations consultants, lobbyists, and trade associations in the US, with the scope to manage regional external partners as geographic needs evolve.
• Ensure Compliance: Oversee compliance of all lobbying and political activities with federal, state, and relevant international laws.

Benefits

• A weekly lunch stipend of $75/£75 or equivalent in your local currency for lunch.
• Full health and dental benefits, including a separate budget for mental health.
• RRSP matching, 401K, Pension Scheme.
• 100% Parental Leave top-up for up to 6 months, for either parent.
• Annual enrichment benefits: Arts & culture, fitness/wellness, quality time, and a workspace improvement credit.
• Education & learning stipend for conferences, courses, and coaching.
• 6 weeks of paid vacation (30 working days!)
• Budget for traveling to other offices if you are remote, plus an annual company offsite.
• $500 home office stipend to set up your workspace properly.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior