Associate Director, Geo-Commerce

International Public Affairs Professional

We have an immediate opportunity for an experienced international public affairs professional with strong expertise in policy advocacy, issues management, cross-border communications and media relations, government relations, stakeholder engagement and/or investment advisory.

You will lead high-stakes client projects, manage business relationships, develop and secure new clients, and supervise and mentor team members.

You will be based in Washington D.C. and bring a global perspective to your work. You are self-directed, proactive and motivated to create value for APCO, your colleagues, and your clients every day.

You are adept at engaging your network to analyze complex situations; developing and delivering compelling advice and contextually appropriate solutions; responding with agility to fast-moving situations; identifying engagement opportunities on relevant issues; and leveraging the full spectrum of corporate affairs and communication channels and tactics.

You have experience leading project teams and managing work streams while also serving in a key role on major projects.

You have a desire to learn and grow both across industries and the broad corporate affairs field, including in issues advocacy, communications, grassroots campaigns, crisis management, and stakeholder communications.

You know how to work with executive-level clients and their teams, and have a positive, go-getter attitude that wins the confidence of clients and inspires teams.

Responsibilities:

• Lead a wide range of advisory, research, communication, and stakeholder engagement work for high-profile, globally recognized clients.
• Manage, nurture, and grow client relationships, overseeing client projects, supervising project teams, allocating resources, and effectively delegating tasks.
• Provide consistently high levels of client service through proactive account management, serving as a key contact to maintain and grow client relationships.
• Implement comprehensive public affairs, communications, and policy advocacy strategies to address client issues and support their growth objectives.
• Gather intelligence and develop insights on issues relevant to existing and prospective clients to enhance relationships and support business growth.

Qualifications:

• At least 6-8 years of related experience in international public affairs, public policy initiatives, or campaigns, especially related to technology, trade, and clean energy regulatory issues.
• Exceptional presentation, writing, and analytical skills, with the ability to write both strategically and creatively under tight deadlines.
• Solid project management experience, including leading major accounts and overseeing successful project teams.
• Demonstrated success in formulating and leading strategic thinking and engagements with external stakeholders.
• Ability to translate technical policy and regulation for a business audience.
• Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university in a related field.
• Proficiency in Chinese writing and speaking.
• International work experience is an advantage.

Compensation Range

The US base salary for this position ranges from $100,000/year to $120,000/year. Our compensation range for this role is inclusive of several US geographic markets. APCO targets an employee's pay within this range to be based on several factors, which include but are not limited to relevant education, skills, job-related knowledge, qualifications, work experience, credentials, internal equity and/or geographic location.

Careers at APCO

Through our recruitment, hiring and retention efforts, APCO is committed to building teams who bring the best possible expertise and robust perspectives to our clients. We embrace differences in experience, viewpoint and ideas, starting with our values and extending to our behaviors, policies and practices. We aim to create a positive work experience and welcoming environment where everyone feels they belong and can thrive.

We are proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer and encourage applications from all qualified candidates regardless of race, national origin, citizenship, native language, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, marital or parental status, religion, age, veteran status, neurodivergence, mental or physical disability, medical history, pregnancy, political belief or affiliation or any other characteristic protected by law.

About Us

APCO is a global advisory and advocacy firm helping leading corporations, foundations and governments navigate a complex world and create lasting impact.

Founded in 1984, with one woman's vision and bold action, APCO has grown into an independent, majority women-owned firm of more than 1,200 employees with work spanning 80 markets around the world.

Headquartered in Washington, D.C., APCO is comprised of strategic advisers, consultants and creators, working together across borders and functions, to provide services and expertise on financial, competitive, political and societal issues.

APCO is a trusted partner to bold purpose-led leaders, lawmakers, government officials, NGOs, the media and other stakeholders in the health, energy, technology, transportation & infrastructure and food & consumer products sectors. For 40 years, the firm has provided public affairs, crisis & reputation, impact, corporate reputation and global solutions services.

APCO is renowned for its ability to champion clients' interests and permission to operate, build their reputation and strengthen their standing. APCO's integrated approach and team of tenacious and empathic talent create connections and winning strategies that accelerate progress and deepen impact.

By bringing diverse people and ideas together, and working beyond traditional boundaries, APCO builds the un/common ground upon which progress is made.