Head of Government Relations  

The role

The Head of Government Relations will play an important role in supporting Lazada’ s growth in South East Asia by coordinating government relations activities and policy thought leadership in key countries throughout the region.

The successful candidate will possess the ability to work independently as well as collaboratively; be both strategic and accountable for detailed follow-through; and be capable of working successfully in an entrepreneurial, highly collaborative, and dynamic business. The successful candidate must possess the following: strong writing, speaking, and analytical skills; proven understanding of enterprise software, data analytics, cybersecurity, Internet of Things, and other relevant technology; organizational and project management skills; a high degree of accountability and professional motivation; and ease in developing relationships of trust and confidence.

Reporting

Successful candidate will report to the Country CEO and Regional Head of Government Relations.

Key tasks and responsibilities

• Help to interpret, explain, and present the regulatory and political landscape to the Senior management team and other stakeholders in clear terms
• Build a network and relations with the relevant stakeholders and help to advocate, negotiate or defend positions, including in potentially contentious areas
• Identify and analyse core priorities and issues, with focus on the South-East Asia region
• Engage with key regulators, officials, representatives and, where relevant, local, international or foreign governments
• Monitor and recommend actions on developments in the market
• Build up the Government Relations function over time as it evolves with business needs
• Manage external agencies or consultants, while keeping an eye on cost control and quality
• Monitor crisis management, reaching clear solutions when required
• Monitor competitors’ activities in relevant areas and recommend measures where appropriate
• Frequent travel will be required.

• 10+ years' experience in government, government affairs, public policy or stakeholder relations, ideally with a focus on e-commerce
• Bachelor's degree in related field (government affairs, law, political science, public administration, public relations
• Interest in the business and related technology.
• Excellent communications skills (both oral and written) in English
• Working knowledge of any other language, especially Asian, as a definite plus
• Attention to detail and accuracy
• Strong interpersonal skills and a troubleshooting oriented mindset that enable working with a multi-cultural group of professionals
• Previous experience working for or engaging with industry associations, regulatory agencies, tax authorities or relevant government agency is highly desirable.
• Deep interest and experience in government engagement strategy and implementation
• Experience in stakeholder management and planning and ability to collaborate with senior stakeholders across multiple sites / global locations
• Strong project management skills to meet deadlines, establish clear priorities quickly and bring projects to completion on time and within budget
• Ability to understand the business model, the company strategy and legal/regulatory challenges and ensure KPIs are aligned to this strategy
• Excellent problem-solving skills; self-motivated, with strong analytical thinking
• Ability to perform under time constraints
• Impeccable degree of discretion, confidentiality, and ethics