Government Affairs Director

A leading automotive manufacturer is seeking a Government Affairs Director to champion its policy agenda and regulatory interests across Thailand and the ASEAN region.

What you'll do:

As Government Affairs Director based in Bangkok, you will play a central role in shaping public policy outcomes that directly impact the automotive sector.

* Develop and execute comprehensive advocacy strategies that support the organisation’s legislative, regulatory, trade, and business objectives in Thailand (70%) and across ASEAN (30%).

* Monitor, analyse, and interpret emerging political trends, automotive policies, regulatory changes, trade issues, and government support programmes to inform strategic decision-making.

* Integrate geopolitical analyses into planning processes to safeguard operations against evolving global dynamics and regional tensions.

* Collaborate closely with senior management teams in Thailand and ASEAN to assess business impacts, operational costs, efficiencies, and profitability related to policy developments.

* Provide expert recommendations on membership in key business organisations and coalitions—including grass-roots campaigns—to advance the company’s policy agenda.

* Serve as the primary liaison with Thai government officials, leading negotiations with authorities and industry associations on critical policy priorities.

* Advocate for industrial incentives, trade agreements, fuel economy standards, electrification initiatives, government fleet sales, support programmes for the automotive sector, and urban/rural mobility challenges.

* Support corporate social responsibility activities by partnering with philanthropy and communications teams to enhance community engagement.

* Employ diplomatic skills to cultivate alliances with cabinet members, industry leaders, associations, ambassadors, and diplomatic communities—leveraging these relationships to further organisational objectives.

What you bring:

To excel as Government Affairs Director you will bring extensive experience navigating complex regulatory environments—both within Thailand and internationally.

* Bachelor’s or master’s degree in political science, public policy, law, international relations or a related field—with preference given to candidates holding a master’s qualification.

* Minimum of 15 years’ experience in government affairs, public policy or regulatory compliance—ideally within the automotive industry or similar sectors.

* Proven track record of working effectively in markets outside of Thailand; openness to potential future relocation is highly valued.

* Exceptional diplomatic negotiation skills combined with analytical ability to interpret complex policies and manage crisis situations efficiently.

* Advanced business acumen relating to policy analysis; able to provide strategic recommendations that drive organisational alignment.

* Fluency in both Thai and English is mandatory for effective communication across diverse stakeholder groups.

* Flexibility to travel domestically within Thailand as well as regionally throughout ASEAN as required by business needs.

* Outstanding proactive communication skills that facilitate efficient decision-making processes among cross-functional teams.

* Demonstrated ability to forge best-in-class relationships with high-level government officials (including cabinet members), industry leaders and associations.

What sets this company apart:

This organisation has been synonymous with quality innovation reliability within Thailand’s automotive market. Its award-winning vehicles have become part of countless customers’ lives creating lasting memories while fulfilling hopes dreams nationwide. Generous pension schemes flexible working arrangements further enhance employee wellbeing making this an outstanding environment for talented professionals seeking long-term career fulfilment.

What's next:

If you are ready to make a meaningful impact on public policy while advancing your career within a respected global organisation we encourage you to take the next step today!

Apply today by clicking on the link provided—your journey towards shaping the future of mobility starts here.

Due to the high volume of applications, our team will only be in touch if your application is shortlisted.

Robert Walters Recruitment (Thailand) Limited
Recruitment License No.: น. 1188 / 2551