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Cohere is a leading security-first enterprise AI company building cutting-edge foundation models and end-to-end products for enterprises. The company is headquartered in Toronto with key offices globally including London, New York City, San Francisco, Montreal, Paris, Berlin, and Seoul.
Cohere is establishing a Government Affairs and Public Policy (GAPP) team and seeks a Head of Government Affairs & Public Policy for Japan to lead the company's government affairs strategy in this dynamic AI policy environment.
In this role, you will:
- Lead Japan's advocacy efforts by partnering with senior leadership, legal, public policy, and responsible AI teams to develop and implement government affairs strategy across national, prefectural, and municipal levels.
- Serve as the internal and external expert on Japan's AI policy, monitoring regulatory shifts and proactively reporting on trends while coordinating cross-functional responses to governmental initiatives, regulatory issues, and legislative proposals.
- Leverage dual experience in political and corporate spheres to translate technical and business objectives into effective policy advocacy.
- Cultivate and maintain deep relationships with key lawmakers, regulators, and trade bodies, representing Cohere at the highest levels of engagement.
- Work closely with public sector sales teams to shape technology and procurement policies in regulated sectors, positioning Cohere as a trusted partner for government stakeholders.
- Direct government relations consultants and trade associations operating in Japan.
- Ensure compliance of all lobbying and political activities with relevant Japanese laws.
This is a full-time, in-office position based in Tokyo. Cohere offers comprehensive benefits including health and dental coverage, mental health support, RRSP/401K matching, 100% parental leave top-up for up to 6 months, 6 weeks paid vacation, annual enrichment benefits (arts/culture, fitness, education stipends), and a $500 home office stipend.
REQUIREMENTS:
- Native fluency in Japanese and English (required)
- 10–12+ years of proven leadership experience blending corporate government affairs roles in the technology sector with direct political or government experience
- Exceptional ability to analyze artificial intelligence policy, its applications, and risks, with a proven track record of shaping relevant tech policies and regulations
- Prior experience in or close collaboration with defense, cybersecurity, or national security sectors highly preferred; experience with regulated industries also preferred
- Proven experience supporting public-sector sales and government procurement teams highly preferred
- Growth mindset and self-starter attitude with ability to work independently, prioritize issues, and drive projects to completion
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills; proven ability to distill complex AI policy into compelling documents, thought leadership, and briefings for diverse audiences
- Bachelor's degree in a related field
About Cohere
AI / Data / Infrastructure — enterprise generative AI models and tooling for businesses.
