Latin America Government Relations Manager

Job description

The LatAm Government Relations Manager will be the first point of contact for government relations across the region and will communicate with the wider Wise LatAm teams on policy-related developments, execute government relations strategy, and design proactive campaigns to influence upcoming policy actions to improve the product for our customers. As the first LatAm-focused GR person, you’ll play a foundational role in building Wise’s policy and government engagement in the region.

This is an individual-contributor role where you’ll know how to navigate the political landscape in key LatAm jurisdictions, notably Mexico and Brazil, to generate policy outcomes that benefit our customers. You’ll be a key interlocutor with policymakers, legislators, and regulators in the region. You’ll work to advance our mission to build the best way to move and manage the world's money and ensure the onboarding and payment processes are as frictionless as possible for our customers.

You’ll represent Wise in industry groups and civil society organizations, translate complex policy developments to cross-team colleagues and Wise leadership, and support Environmental, Social, and Governance compliance processes. You will advocate for our G20 Scorecard Reports and for progress on direct access and price transparency, the two pillars of the G20 Cross Border Payments Roadmap. You’ll be based in our São Paulo office and sit within the GR Americas team based in Washington, D.C.

You will primarily work with banking, public relations, product, compliance, and legal colleagues, as well as other GR colleagues around the world, as part of our global Government Relations team. You’re expected to make regular travels to Mexico City and Brasilia and occasional travels to other LatAm cities. Some travel to London (UK), Austin, New York (USA), and Tallinn (Estonia) is also expected.

About you

Passionate: You’ll be a skilled advocate and deeply passionate about Wise, our Mission, and delivering for our customers.

Political and/or policy experience

You’ll have deep Mexico and Brazil political and/or policy experience and demonstrate the ability to work in financial services.

Focused on outcomes

You’ll need an entrepreneurial mindset to thrive. You’ll be focused on driving outcomes to benefit our customers.

Proactive

You’ll show that you can take action and use your initiative to identify and solve problems.

Without borders

You’re curious about other cultures, have a global mindset, and though the role is Brazil-based, you are prepared to spend time abroad for work.

Coalition builder

You’ll understand how to leverage relationships, create connections, and ultimately build coalitions with industry, consumers, and governments.

Qualifications

Experience required

5+ years of relevant experience in government, politics, or public policy and government relations roles. A track record of working effectively in Mexico and Brazil political/policy/government environments related to the financial services industry. A proven record of relevant interactions with public authorities, members of Congress, and regulators in Mexico and Brazil. Good understanding of the issues that matter most to non-bank payment service providers and the related regulatory landscape.

Proficiency in Spanish and Portuguese, spoken and written, and a demonstrated working knowledge of English. Strong communication skills, with experience drafting policy positions and preparing briefings.

Nice to have

Direct experience in fintech, payments, or technology policy. Experience working with multiple policymakers and regulators, especially beyond Mexico and Brazil. Advanced degree in economics, finance, law, or a related field relevant to the responsibilities of the role. Knowledge of Wise’s products.