Director, Government Affairs

About Visa

Visa is a global leader in payment technologies, connecting consumers, merchants, financial institutions, and governments across over 200 countries. Our mission is to empower everyone everywhere by providing the best methods to pay and be paid.

At Visa, you get the chance to make a significant impact worldwide, develop your skills, and see how your efforts influence lives globally.

Role Overview

We are seeking a Director of Government Affairs based in Sydney who will lead and coordinate Visa's regulatory engagement across Australia, working closely with various internal teams and external regulators, including the Reserve Bank of Australia. The Director will develop strategic narratives, manage outreach efforts, and ensure alignment between Visa's business goals and government policies impacting the payments sector.

Key Responsibilities

• Formulate and execute regulatory strategies for the Australian market in partnership with the Head of Government Affairs for AuNZPI and related teams.
• Continuously monitor and report on the regulatory environment to business leaders and global management.
• Manage relationships with Australian regulators and ensure all public sector interactions comply with Visa's lobbying and political participation policies.
• Provide updates and education to regulators on Visa's value through policy discussions and briefings.
• Engage with industry counterparts such as client banks to maintain coordinated efforts.

Significance of the Role

This position directly supports Visa's mission of fostering inclusive economic growth through enhanced access to advanced payment technologies in Australia, New Zealand, and the Pacific Islands. It is pivotal to strengthening regulatory partnerships and promoting Visa's leadership in payment security and innovation.

Projects

• Strengthen engagement with Australian regulatory bodies.
• Contribute to regulatory reporting and produce submissions for relevant authorities.
• Advise on regulatory issues and support advocacy for new business initiatives.
• Collaborate in formulating Visa's long-term strategy in the AuNZPI region and contribute to broader Asia-Pacific and global Government Affairs efforts.

Work Arrangement

This role is hybrid, requiring a minimum of three days per week in the office, with specific days coordinated by the hiring manager.

Candidate Profile

• Over 12 years of experience in government affairs or regulatory roles in Australia.
• Strong understanding of Australian government and regulatory bodies, including their motivations and operations.
• Proven expertise in cultivating senior-level internal and external stakeholder relationships.
• Exemplary ethical standards, confidentiality, and professional integrity.
• Excellent judgment with experience managing sensitive and confidential information.
• Ability to work autonomously in a dynamic, fast-paced environment.
• Skill in setting priorities and effectively collaborating across departments and geographies.
• Proactive, solution-focused mindset with a desire to add value.
• Outstanding oral and written communication, including presentation skills.
• Willingness to travel as necessary and to undertake additional responsibilities within the Government Affairs team.

Preferred Qualifications and Skills

• Bachelor’s degree is required; graduate degree preferred.
• Blend of corporate and regulatory experience within Australia.
• Familiarity with the Australian payments industry.
• Strong negotiation and influencing capabilities.
• Advanced analytical and writing skills.
• Experience in building and managing teams.
• Exceptional stakeholder management and executive presence.

Equal Employment Opportunity

Visa values diversity and inclusion and considers qualified applicants without regard to race, religion, gender, sexual orientation, disability, or veteran status. Visa also fairly evaluates candidates with criminal records in compliance with applicable laws.