Managing Director, Institute for California AI Policy

Position Summary:

The Silicon Valley Leadership Group (SVLG) – the leading business association representing the innovation economy and its ecosystem – is seeking an experienced technology executive or public policy professional to serve as Managing Director of the Institute for California AI Policy under the Silicon Valley Leadership Group. With nearly five decades of proven advocacy, SVLG is focused on accelerating the next era of business competitiveness and promoting inclusive and sustainable growth in Silicon Valley and across the greater Bay Area region.

The Institute for California Artificial Intelligence Policy (ICAP) works to advance and promote the innovative development and deployment of artificial intelligence (AI) in California. Work of the Institute includes policy engagement, thought leadership, media affairs and public leadership.

The Managing Director will lead the organization’s strategic direction, execute milestone projects, manage daily operations, and ensure that ICAP remains at the forefront of AI policy discussions and development. The role involves engaging with government officials, private sector leaders, academic researchers, and policymakers to shape AI legislation, ethical standards, and public understanding.

The Managing Director will work closely with our CEO and the SVP of Technology + Innovation Policy and other member company  leaders to implement advocacy strategies and strengthen relationships with California policymakers and allied organizations. Demonstrated experience in artificial intelligence, emerging technologies, and policy engagement is strongly preferred.

Key Responsibilities:

Leadership & Strategy

• Lead the development and implementation of ICAP’s strategic plan, ensuring alignment with the organization's mission to promote rapid AI innovation and ethical policy frameworks.
• Cultivate relationships with key stakeholders across the AI, government, academic, and nonprofit sectors to ensure ICAP’s role as a thought leader in California’s AI policy landscape.
• Work closely with the SVLG executive leadership to define long-term goals, set annual priorities, and develop performance metrics for both ICAP and its staff.
• Drive ICAP’s organizational culture, fostering an inclusive and collaborative environment that empowers staff and stakeholders.

Policy & Advocacy

• Lead ICAP’s efforts to advocate for policies at the state and federal level that promote the development and deployment of innovative and responsible AI.
• Monitor emerging AI-related regulatory, legislative, and policy developments in California and across the United States, ensuring ICAP remains proactive in addressing new challenges.
• Represent ICAP at conferences, public hearings, and stakeholder meetings, articulating the organization’s position on various AI policy issues.
• Engage with lawmakers, regulatory agencies, and industry leaders to influence the adoption of policies that ensure AI technology is developed responsibly and efficiently.

Operational Management

• Oversee the day-to-day operations of ICAP, including managing a team of policy experts, researchers, and support staff.
• Ensure high-quality and impactful research, reports, and publications are produced on time and align with ICAP’s policy priorities.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant regulations and grant requirements, overseeing the management of grants and funding sources.
• Supervise the development and implementation of programs, initiatives, and events that align with ICAP’s mission and strategic goals.
• Cultivate a strong network of partners and collaborators, ensuring ICAP’s projects and initiatives have broad impact and influence.

Communications & Stakeholder Engagement

• Represent ICAP in public fora, contributing to discussions and panels on AI policy, ethics, and regulation.
• Maintain and build relationships with a wide range of stakeholders, including local, state, and federal government officials, community organizations, technology companies, and academic institutions.

Additional Duties:

• Perform other duties to support the advancement of the organization’s mission and goals.

The Ideal Candidate:

Experience:

• Proven leadership experience, with at least 7-10+years in an executive or senior management role in AI policy, technology policy, or related fields.
• Strong understanding of the AI landscape, including its regulatory, legal, and ethical challenges.
• Deep experience in developing and advocating for public policy initiatives, particularly in technology, ethics, and governance.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to engage and influence diverse stakeholders including government leaders, the tech industry, nonprofit organizations, and academia.
• Experience managing multidisciplinary teams, fostering collaboration, and cultivating a positive organizational culture.
• Experience with fundraising, including securing grants and building relationships with donors.
• Strong financial management skills and the ability to develop and manage large budgets.
• Demonstrated ability to work independently, think strategically, and manage complex projects under tight deadlines.

Skills and Attributes:

• Exhibit excellent interpersonal skills with the ability to build trust and credibility with policymakers, industry stakeholders, and our members.
• Possess exceptional written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to distill complex issues into actionable insights and compelling advocacy positions.
• Be a self-starter who is comfortable flexing between independent work and active collaboration within a team setting, balancing both with ease.
• Show agility in managing competing priorities and deadlines while maintaining attention to detail and delivering high-quality outcomes.

Compensation and Benefits:

• Target Salary Range: $185,000 to $225,000 per year, commensurate with experience.
• Benefits Package: Competitive benefits package, including health, dental, and vision.
• Paid Time Off: Unlimited PTO. 

Equal Employment Opportunity:

The Silicon Valley Leadership Group provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression.

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer that is committed to inclusion and diversity. All employment with the Silicon Valley Leadership Group is At Will.

How to Apply:

Interested candidates should submit the following materials:

1. Cover Letter: Explain your interest in the position and how your skills and experiences align with the role.
2. Resume: Provide a detailed overview of your professional experience and accomplishments.
3. Relevant Writing Sample: Submit a sample of your work that demonstrates your ability to communicate policy issues effectively. Examples may include an advocacy memo, op-ed, policy brief, or similar document.