Government Affairs Lead – Middle East (UAE/ Saudi Arabia)

About the role

Cohere is building a Government Affairs and Public Policy (GAPP) team to shape AI and digital innovation across the Middle East. As the Government Affairs Lead for the UAE and Saudi Arabia, you will help position Cohere as a trusted partner for regional AI policy, digital transformation and economic diversification initiatives. You will work closely with senior executives, policy leaders and commercial teams to drive strategic growth in two of the world’s fastest‑growing AI markets.

Key responsibilities

• Develop and execute Cohere’s government‑affairs strategy for the UAE and Saudi Arabia in partnership with senior leadership, legal, policy and commercial teams.
• Build and maintain trusted relationships with ministries, regulators, sovereign entities and innovation agencies.
• Monitor legislative and regulatory developments affecting AI, cloud computing, data governance, cybersecurity and emerging technologies.
• Prepare consultation responses, policy submissions, briefing materials and executive talking points on AI regulation and public‑sector procurement.
• Represent Cohere at industry associations, public‑private partnerships, conferences and policy forums across the GCC.

Required profile

• 7+ years of experience in government, public policy, diplomacy, regulatory affairs or a leading industry association.
• Deep understanding of the policymaking and regulatory landscape in the UAE or Saudi Arabia, with ability to quickly acquire expertise in both markets.
• Proven track record of building relationships with senior government officials and public‑sector stakeholders.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English; professional proficiency in Arabic is highly desirable.
• Strong analytical ability to translate complex policy developments into clear business implications.

What we offer

• Weekly lunch stipend of $75 (or equivalent in local currency).
• Full health, dental and mental‑health benefits.
• Retirement savings matching (RRSP, 401K, pension scheme) and 100% parental‑leave top‑up for up to six months.
• Six weeks of paid vacation, education & learning stipend, and a $500 home‑office setup allowance.
• Remote‑friendly work model with co‑working benefits and travel budget for office visits.