Direct reports: 5 Reporting line: Regional

Our client, a leading multinational organization, is seeking a senior Head of External Affairs to join its executive leadership team in Ho Chi Minh City.

This Board-level role will lead the company's external engagement agenda, encompassing stakeholder management, public affairs, regulatory affairs, advocacy and corporate reputation. As a key member of the leadership team, the successful candidate will act as a strategic business partner, translating commercial priorities, market challenges and growth ambitions into effective external affairs strategies that support business performance, sustainable growth and long-term success.

What you will do:

• Develop the company's External Affairs strategy in alignment with business objectives and growth priorities.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with government authorities, regulators, industry associations, business chambers, strategic partners and other key stakeholders.
• Monitor and assess regulatory, political and policy developments, proactively identifying risks and opportunities for the business in Vietnam and designated other markets.
• Lead advocacy, stakeholder engagement and reputation management initiatives to support a favorable operating environment.
• Provide strategic counsel to senior leadership and business partners.
• Partner closely with commercial and business leaders to understand business performance drivers, market dynamics and operational challenges, translating these insights into impactful stakeholder engagement and advocacy strategies.
• Lead issues and crisis management efforts to protect the organization's reputation and license to operate.
• Represent the organization in high-level engagements with external stakeholders, industry forums and government bodies.
• Lead, develop and mentor a high-performing External Affairs team.

What you will bring:

• Leadership Team and/or Board-level experience within a multinational organization.
• Significant experience in External Affairs, Corporate Affairs, Public Affairs, Government Affairs or Regulatory Affairs.
• Strong experience shaping Vietnam's regulatory framework.
• Proven ability to influence senior stakeholders and navigate complex external landscapes.
• Commercially minded leader capable of translating business priorities into impactful external affairs strategies.
• Regional and/or international exposure across multiple markets is highly preferred.
• Excellent people leadership, stakeholder management and communication skills.
• Fluent English communication skills.

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