Head of Government Affairs

The Lead of China Government Affairs is responsible for developing and executing the company’s government affairs strategy in China to support business objectives, ensure regulatory compliance, and strengthen the organization’s reputation as a trusted partner to government and industry stakeholders. This role serves as the primary interface between the company and government entities at central, provincial, and local levels, providing strategic counsel to China leadership and driving advocacy efforts on key laws, regulations, and policies.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with government officials at central, provincial, and local levels— especially in Shanghai and Guangdong—to promote a positive corporate reputation and advance business interests.
• Lead advocacy on laws, regulations, policies, and standards affecting the company, including but not limited to trade, nutrition, labeling, product claims, packaging, and environmental compliance.
• Proactively identify and secure government support, incentives, and subsidies for investments, business transformation, and M&A activities.
• Secure timely government approvals, licenses, and permits to enable business operations across manufacturing, EHS, import/export, logistics, and retail.
• Develop and implement a stakeholder mapping and engagement plan; measure and report on government stakeholder perceptions.
• Monitor and analyze policy developments, providing strategic insights and guidance to executive leadership.
• Manage and minimize risks from government tests, investigations, and enforcement actions related to product quality, claims, labeling, packaging, and consumer complaints; safeguard the company’s reputation.
• Oversee IP protection efforts, including engagement with customs and enforcement agencies to address knock-offs and infringements.
• Represent the company in government-led events, industry associations, and public forums; coordinate participation of global and regional leaders in high-level government meetings.
• Drive joint programs with government and third-party stakeholders that align corporate activities with government priorities.
• Collaborate with internal teams (legal, communications, operations, supply chain, etc.) to ensure alignment and effective risk management.
• Lead and develop the government affairs team; manage external advisors as needed.
Job Requirement/工作要求:
• Bachelor’s degree or above in Law, Political Science, Public Policy, International Relations, or related field.
• Minimum 10 years’ experience in government affairs, public policy, or a related field, with a strong track record of engagement in China. Prior experience in consumer packaged goods (CPG) business or in government authorities, will be a big advantage.
• Deep understanding of China’s political and regulatory environment; established network within relevant government agencies (e.g., SAMR, NHC, MOC, MOA).
• Demonstrated success in policy advocacy, government approvals, and securing business-supportive
incentives.
• Strong analytical skills in policy analysis and risk management.
• Excellent communication, negotiation, and relationship-building skills; fluency in Mandarin and English required.
• Proven ability to operate strategically while managing complex, cross-functional initiatives.
• High integrity, sound judgment, and ability to represent the company in sensitive or high-stakes situations.
• Flexibility to travel frequently
• Agile and resilient, catalyst for driving transformation