Vacancy: EU-US Liaison Executive Director (LED)

Location: Washington, D.C., USA

Reports to: Director General of DIGITALEUROPE

Employment Type: Part-time, employee or independent contractor

Who We Are:

DIGITALEUROPE is the leading trade association representing digitally transforming industries in Europe. We aim to drive European prosperity through digital transformation, representing over 45,000 businesses, including 110 corporate members and over 40 national trade associations.

Job Description:

The EU-US Liaison Executive Director will serve as a crucial bridge between DIGITALEUROPE’s headquarters in Brussels and key stakeholders in Washington, D.C., focusing on strengthening transatlantic relationships in the digital and technology sectors. This role requires a strategic thinker with an excellent network at the highest levels and deep international business and/or policy experience. Experience in the areas of the digital economy and security is desirable. The LED will represent DIGITALEUROPE in Washington, D.C., and at relevant international forums, working to improve EU-US digital, cyber, and security ties. Additionally, the LED will expand DIGITALEUROPE’s influence and partnerships with U.S. government bodies, partner associations, and EU representatives while promoting transatlantic commercial and policy collaboration through industry engagement.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead the initiative to establish a permanent DIGITALEUROPE office in Washington, D.C.
• Organize three networking events annually for DIGITALEUROPE’s EU member representatives based in the U.S., focusing on emerging technology topics in collaboration bodies like the Trade Technology Council,
• Work on harmonization of regulation framework and open market for areas like Artificial Intelligence (AI), Cybersecurity, Digital Product Passport, and Dual-Use and Critical Technologies.
• Expand collaboration on Cyber and protection of critical infrastructure between EU, US, NATO and private sector.
• Expand and maintain a robust network of EU ambassadors to the U.S. and key stakeholders, including but not limited to the U.S. Ambassador at Large for Cyberspace and Digital Policy, the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), U.S. Department of Commerce,  Office of the United States Trade Representative (USTR), Federal Communications Commission (FCC),  Department of State – Bureau of Economic and Business Affairs, Congressional Committees (House Energy and Commerce Committee and the Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee), White House Office of Science and Technology Policy (OSTP) and other relevant stakeholders.
• Represent DIGITALEUROPE at relevant industry forums, conferences, and diplomatic events in Washington, D.C.
• Strategic Coordination:
• Lead 1-2 high-impact trips annually for the Director General of DIGITALEUROPE to Washington, D.C., ensuring meaningful engagements with top-tier stakeholders.
• Collaborate closely with DIGITALEUROPE’s Brussels-based teams to align on strategic priorities, ensuring that Washington-based activities support and amplify the organization’s European goals.
• Reporting & Communication:
• Become a member of DIGITALEUROPE’s senior executive management team and provide strategic insights on U.S. developments and key meetings.
• Ensure seamless communication between the Washington, D.C. representation and Brussels HQ to align priorities and initiatives.

Key Requirements:

• Senior executive management experience in government relations, public affairs, or international business or policy, with a strong focus on EU-U.S. relations.
• Proven track record in creating and managing relationships with high-level stakeholders in complex environments.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills in English; proficiency in another EU language is a plus.
• Ability to work independently while maintaining strong connections with a remote team.
• Strong knowledge of U.S. and EU policy environments, particularly in digital security and technology sectors.
• Must have a valid work permit in the U.S.

Benefits:

• Competitive salary and benefits package.
• Opportunity to work in a dynamic, international environment with significant impact on EU-U.S. relations.
• Networking opportunities with leading figures in technology, government, and diplomacy.

DIGITALEUROPE is committed to diversity and inclusion and encourages applications from all qualified candidates, regardless of gender, ethnicity, age, religion, or disability.

What we offer

At DIGITALEUROPE we foster a collaborative culture where every team member can identify their strengths and grow in their career. We encourage taking initiative and developing a vision for a stronger digital Europe.  

DIGITALEUROPE is one of the largest trade associations in Brussels with an office of over 60 people. Our staff comes from over 30 nationalities and speaks 37 languages with equal gender representation. We offer a permanent contract with a competitive salary package, along with multiple opportunities for professional development and career growth.

Why join us

DIGITALEUROPE has been the fastest-growing association, tripled in size over the last few years. With us, you’ll have the opportunity to make a real impact, grow your career, and contribute to the development of Europe’s digital future.

Contact & Application Process

Interested candidates should send a CV and a short motivation letter by 30 November 2024 via this application form.

Based on the volume of applications received, only short-listed candidates will be contacted for interviews. The expected starting date is as soon as possible.