Public Affairs Lead, Americas

IFS•Washington, DC

6d•$135,000 - $150,000•Hybrid

About The Position

As we scale rapidly in North America, we're building a world-class Public Affairs function to shape policy, strengthen our regulatory positioning, and elevate our influence across government, academia, and leading institutions. We're seeking a North America Lead, Public Affairs to serve as IFS's primary voice and relationship manager across the U.S. policy landscape. Reporting to the Head of External Affairs, you'll be responsible for monitoring policy developments, engaging with federal and state government stakeholders, managing relationships with premier institutions like the World Economic Forum and Milken Institute, and positioning IFS as a credible, influential voice in technology policy debates. This role requires exceptional judgment, diplomatic skill, and the ability to translate complex technology issues into compelling narratives for policymakers, media, and internal stakeholders. You'll operate at the intersection of technology, policy, and global affairs—building coalitions, shaping positions, and ensuring IFS stays ahead of regulatory and legislative developments that impact our business.

Requirements

5–8 years of experience in government affairs, public policy, or related roles, with a focus on technology policy, regulatory affairs, or federal advocacy
Proven experience engaging with federal agencies, congressional offices, or state government entities
Track record of building and managing relationships with think tanks, NGOs, academic institutions, or multilateral organizations
Experience working with national and beltway media, including drafting op-eds, coordinating interviews, and managing press relationships
Strong understanding of technology issues (AI, data governance, cybersecurity, critical infrastructure) and their intersection with public policy
Exceptional judgment and diplomacy: Ability to navigate complex, politically sensitive situations with tact and strategic insight
Coalition builder: Demonstrated ability to engage and build consensus with diverse stakeholders, including functional leaders, policymakers, and external partners
Strategic thinker: Capable of anticipating policy trends, identifying risks, and recommending proactive responses
Clear communicator: Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to distill complex issues into accessible, compelling narratives
Self-starter: Comfortable operating independently in a fast-paced, high-growth environment with evolving priorities
Global perspective: Understanding of international affairs and how global policy trends intersect with U.S. domestic policy

Nice To Haves

Experience working at a technology company, consulting firm, government agency, or think tank
Familiarity with Industrial AI applications in sectors like aerospace, defense, manufacturing, or energy
Existing network of contacts within federal government, trade associations, or policy research organizations

Responsibilities

Monitor and track federal and state legislative and regulatory developments impacting Industrial AI, data governance, cybersecurity, critical infrastructure, and related technology policy areas
Analyze policy proposals and translate implications for IFS's business operations and strategic priorities
Prepare regular briefings for leadership on emerging policy trends, risks, and opportunities
Support regulatory adherence by ensuring the company stays informed and proactive on compliance requirements
Build and manage relationships with key stakeholders across federal agencies, congressional offices, and state government bodies
Coordinate and participate in policymaker and regulator interactions on behalf of IFS
Support executive engagement with government officials, ensuring productive dialogue and strategic alignment
Provide input to trade associations and industry coalitions on IFS's behalf
Assist in the U.S. management of IFS's relationship with the World Economic Forum (WEF), and other influential global institutions
Identify and cultivate relationships with think tanks, NGOs, academic institutions, and policy research organizations
Position IFS as a thought leader through strategic partnerships and collaborative initiatives
Collaborate with communications and marketing teams to develop policy positions, public consultation responses, and advocacy messaging
Support executive messaging on policy and regulatory matters, ensuring clarity, consistency, and credibility
Engage with national and beltway media to amplify IFS's perspective on technology policy issues
Educate internal stakeholders on policy developments and their business implications
Support planning and execution of policy-focused events, roundtables, and briefings
Support team and executives for media appearances, congressional testimony, and public speaking engagements
Coordinate logistics and messaging for high-profile engagements with government and institutional partners