Lead, Global External Affairs

Responsibilities

• Build and execute a comprehensive global External Affairs strategy that aligns with and amplifies Cohere’s broader public policy and commercial objectives.
• Identify, build, and manage deep relationships with leading technology policy think tanks, academic researchers, civil society organizations, and non-governmental organizations (NGOs).
• Partner with external experts and institutions to generate thought leadership, research, and independent validation of Cohere’s approach to enterprise AI, data privacy, and model safety.
• Serve as Cohere's primary representative on key industry coalitions, trade associations, and multi-stakeholder forums, ensuring our unique enterprise perspective shapes broader industry consensus.
• Work seamlessly across the GAPP, Corporate Communications, Legal, and Go-To-Market teams to ensure our external partnerships and investments are driving measurable impact for the business.
• Organize and host high-level roundtables, policy briefings, and summits that position Cohere as a central convener in the global AI policy debate.

Requirements

• 10+ years of experience in external affairs, public policy, or strategic partnerships, ideally within a major technology company, leading trade association, or prominent policy institution.
• An extensive, active network of relationships across major think tanks, academic centers, and civil society organizations globally.
• A sophisticated understanding of the current global debates surrounding artificial intelligence, including data governance, safety, open-source models, and enterprise adoption.
• Proven experience managing budgets for sponsorships, memberships, and grants, ensuring ROI and alignment with corporate policy goals.
• The ability to persuasively articulate complex technical and policy narratives to highly influential external audiences.
• A self-starter who thrives on establishing a new function from the ground up, designing the operational workflows and strategies necessary for scale.

Nice-to-Haves

• Advanced degree in Public Policy, International Relations, Law, or a related field.
• Experience navigating the specific nuances between consumer AI policy and enterprise/B2B AI policy.

Compensation and Benefits

Compensation Range:

• United States: $220,000 – $330,000 USD
• Canada: $250,000 – $375,000 CAD

Benefits:

• Weekly lunch stipend of $75/£75 or equivalent.
• 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.
• Annual enrichment benefits for arts & culture, fitness/wellness, quality time, and workspace improvement.
• Education & learning stipend for conferences, courses, and coaching.
• 6 weeks of paid vacation.
• Budget for traveling to other offices if remote, plus an annual company offsite.
• $500 home office stipend.
• Co-working benefit for those not near an office.