Trade, IP, and Digital Technology Governance Policy Analyst

The Information Technology and Innovation Foundation (ITIF)—a technology and economic policy think tank—seeks a trade, IP, and digital technology governance policy analyst. The individual will work on a wide range of trade and technology policy issues in China, the United States, European Union, and elsewhere around the world, including at multilateral organizations and forums like the G7 and the World Trade Organization. The analyst will work at the intersection of a range of trade, IP, and digital policy issues, including data flows, localization, and governance. The analyst will participate in and help shape outreach with a wide range of international, congressional, industry, media, academic, and non-profit stakeholders.

The ideal applicant should not only be an excellent researcher who can quickly produce high-quality written reports and articles, but also an engaging public speaker who is committed to advancing trade and innovation to spur economic growth and improve quality of life. The applicant should have a deep understanding of existing tech policy debates, including digital and high-tech trade policy and agreements (whether bilateral, regional, or multilateral), data governance, cloud services, and cybersecurity, and be willing to use evidence and logic to challenge conventional wisdom when appropriate. The applicant should have a vision for and be a powerful voice in shaping pro-innovation U.S. trade policy.

For appropriately qualified and experienced applicants, ITIF would consider starting the applicant at the more senior level of associate director. Applicants at this level would require multiple years of relevant government, industry, or related work experience and demonstrated thought leadership on digital and technology policy.

ITIF brings an unapologetically pro-innovation perspective to tech policy. The position will be located in Washington, DC and reports to ITIF’s vice president for global innovation policy. Salary will be offered commensurate to the applicant’s experience and qualifications.

Essential responsibilities:

• Conduct research assignments as directed and on their own initiative.
• Author long-form research reports related to a broad range of trade, digital economy, technology, and IP policy issues.
• Proactively write blogs, editorials, articles, and submissions for government inquiries.
• Contribute to organization and delivery of ITIF conferences and panel discussions.
• Analyze and provide feedback on draft legislation and regulations and engage with policymakers on policy proposals.
• Speak at public events and debates on these policy issues.
• Build and maintain relationships with key stakeholders involved in digital policy, including policymakers, thought leaders, media, and other key influencers.
  
  
  

Qualifications:

A Master’s degree in public policy, international trade, international business, economics, or related fields preferred, although applicants possessing a bachelor’s degree and at least two years of applied professional experience will be considered. Additional qualifications:

• Demonstrated experience and interest in relevant policy issues. Is ideally fluent at the intersection of business strategy, public policy, technology, and national economic systems.
• Superior communication skills, both oral and written, including an ability to write clear, succinct, and persuasive research papers, op-eds, and blog posts.
• Excellent research, analytical, and organizational skills.
• Highly proactive, independent, and flexible, with an ability to work on multiple projects in a fast-paced environment.
• Ability to thrive both when working on projects independently and on team-oriented projects.
• Ability to balance independent initiative with effectively executing assigned direction.
• Ability to proactively network and build relationships with outside organizations.
  
  
  

Application process:

To apply for this position, please submit the following:

• Resume (2 pages, max)
• Cover letter stating your specific interest and qualifications for the position (1 page, max)
• Writing sample, preferably on a topic related to trade, IP, and digital technology governance policy (5 pages max)
  
  
  

Applications will be considered until the position is filled.