Head of US Public Policy

At Wayve we're committed to creating a diverse, fair and respectful culture that is inclusive of everyone based on their unique skills and perspectives, and regardless of sex, race, religion or belief, ethnic or national origin, disability, age, citizenship, marital, domestic or civil partnership status, sexual orientation, gender identity, veteran status, pregnancy or related condition (including breastfeeding) or any other basis as protected by applicable law. About us Founded in 2017, Wayve is the leading developer of Embodied AI technology. Our advanced AI software and foundation models enable vehicles to perceive, understand, and navigate any complex environment, enhancing the usability and safety of automated driving systems. Our vision is to create autonomy that propels the world forward. Our intelligent, mapless, and hardware-agnostic AI products are designed for automakers, accelerating the transition from assisted to automated driving. In our fast-paced environment big problems ignite us—we embrace uncertainty, leaning into complex challenges to unlock groundbreaking solutions. We aim high and stay humble in our pursuit of excellence, constantly learning and evolving as we pave the way for a smarter, safer future. At Wayve, your contributions matter. We value diversity, embrace new perspectives, and foster an inclusive work environment; we back each other to deliver impact. Make Wayve the experience that defines your career! The role Wayve is hiring a Head of US Public Policy to own our US public policy program. This person will be the senior Wayve policy representative for state and federal engagement, with an initial focus on California. This new leader will also support the design and execution of an adaptable multi-state engagement that supports Wayve’s evolving commercial strategy. You will define and deliver regulatory wins that enable testing, pilots and commercialization, while partnering closely with Commercial, Product, Engineering, Safety and Legal to support Wayve’s GTM in the US. Key responsibilities Develop and own Wayve’s US public policy strategy, developing a multi-state playbook, ensuring seamless alignment with global policy objectives and commercial goals. Build and lead the US public policy function. Lead Wayve’s engagement with federal agencies (e.g., USDOT, NHTSA where relevant), Congressional offices, federal rulemaking and agency consultations, and national standards bodies. Advocate for regulatory approaches, guidance and funding that enable safe AV testing and deployment at scale. Own engagement with California state agencies (e.g., DMV, CPUC and relevant state agencies), governors’ offices, state legislators and city/municipal agencies. Establish ROI and build coalitions with industry partners, trade associations, think tanks, academic institutions and civil society to accelerate constructive, risk-based policy outcomes. Draft and deliver regulatory submissions, technical briefings, testimony, consultation responses and policy whitepapers tailored for U.S. federal and state audiences with support from our agency. Develop US-facing policy communications and thought leadership to raise Wayve’s profile and shape public debate. Prepare and coach senior spokespeople for Congressional hearings, agency briefings and public testimony as needed. Essential skills Location language: Flexible in US but CA preferred. Fluent English; excellent written and oral communications. 8+ years of professional experience in public policy, government affairs, regulatory affairs, or external affairs — with senior/leadership experience and a record of delivering U.S. federal and state policy outcomes. Deep knowledge of the US federal regulatory landscape for AV, transportation and emerging mobility, and of California’s regulatory and political environment (DMV, CARB, CPUC, state legislature). Demonstrated success influencing national and state policy outcomes through direct engagement with fed ... (truncated, view full listing at source)