Government Affairs Lead – Middle East

About the role

Cohere is building a Government Affairs and Public Policy team to shape AI and digital innovation across the Gulf. As Government Affairs Lead for the Middle East, you will establish Cohere’s voice in the UAE and Saudi Arabia, influencing AI policy, digital transformation and public‑sector procurement.

Key responsibilities

• Develop and execute a government‑affairs strategy for the UAE and Saudi Arabia, reporting to the Head of EMEA Government Affairs.
• Build trusted relationships with ministries, regulators, sovereign entities and innovation agencies.
• Monitor legislative and regulatory developments affecting AI, cloud computing, data governance and cybersecurity.
• Prepare consultation responses, policy briefs, executive talking points and stakeholder‑engagement plans.
• Support business development with commercial and public‑sector sales teams across regulated industries.
• Collaborate with communications, marketing and PR to ensure consistent messaging on responsible AI.
• Represent Cohere at industry associations, public‑private partnerships, conferences and policy forums.
• Manage external consultants and ensure compliance with local lobbying laws.

Required profile

• 7+ years in government, public policy, diplomacy, regulatory affairs or a leading industry association.
• Deep understanding of the policy landscape in the UAE or Saudi Arabia, with ability to quickly learn the other market.
• Proven track record of building relationships with senior government officials.
• Excellent written and verbal communication in English; professional Arabic proficiency is a plus.
• Strong analytical skills to translate policy changes into business implications.
• Collaborative, entrepreneurial mindset with experience working across international, cross‑functional teams.

Required skills

• Cloud technologies

What we offer

• Weekly lunch stipend of $75 (or equivalent).
• Full health, dental and mental‑health benefits.
• RRSP matching, 401K and pension scheme.
• 100% parental‑leave top‑up for up to six months.
• Six weeks paid vacation and budget for travel to other offices.
• Education and learning stipend for conferences, courses and coaching.
• Remote‑friendly work model with co‑working space benefit and $500 home‑office stipend.