Head of Public Policy & Government Relations (Publishing)

Overview

Responsibilities

• Develop and execute global government relations strategies to support the company's business objectives.
• Monitor and analyze legislative and regulatory developments affecting the publishing and digital media sectors.
• Represent the organization in meetings with government officials, regulatory bodies, and industry associations.
• Draft policy position papers, public testimony, and formal responses to government consultations.
• Coordinate with legal and product teams to ensure compliance with emerging international regulations.
• Manage external lobbyists and consulting firms to amplify the company's advocacy efforts.
• Lead industry coalitions to find common ground on shared policy challenges such as copyright and privacy.

Qualifications

• A minimum of ten years of experience in government relations, public policy, or legislative affairs.
• Deep expertise in intellectual property law, freedom of expression, and digital media regulation.
• Proven track record of building effective relationships with high-level government officials and stakeholders.
• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills for advocating complex policy positions.
• Experience managing cross-functional teams and external agency partners.
• A degree in Law, Political Science, Public Policy, or a related field.

Nice to have

• Advanced degree such as a Juris Doctor (JD) or Master of Public Policy (MPP).
• Established network within key regulatory bodies such as the European Commission or US Congress.
• Experience working directly for a government agency or legislative body.

Work environment

• Work is primarily conducted in a professional office setting with frequent travel to political capitals.
• The culture is fast-paced and highly reactive to global news and political cycles.
• Collaboration occurs frequently with legal, executive leadership, and communications departments.
• Standard business hours are common, though legislative sessions often require extended evening work.
• Communication tools include secure messaging, legislative tracking software, and video conferencing.

Benefits & growth

• Compensation typically includes a high base salary supplemented by performance-based annual bonuses.
• Long-term incentives such as Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) are standard for senior leadership positions.
• Career progression leads to C-suite roles such as Chief Legal Officer or Chief Corporate Affairs Officer.
• Professional development includes access to exclusive policy forums and executive education programs.
• The role offers significant influence over the future regulatory landscape of the publishing industry.