Manager/Senior Manager, Public Affairs (Malaysia)

White Rook Advisory is an advisory firm with a unique Asia Pacific focus. The firm is devoted exclusively to helping our clients – be they business decision-makers, investors, government bodies, NGOs or international organisations – understand, strategise and navigate the complex and dynamic geopolitical and economic landscape in the region. We operate in myriad fields such as health and nutrition, pharmaceuticals and medical nutrition, food and beverage, oil and gas, sustainability and the circular economy, as well as trade and investment, serving Fortune 500 companies and their global, regional and local teams, as well as international organisations. We develop trust-based relationships with our clients and stakeholders across the region that help us build win-win scenarios between businesses, governments, thought-leaders and people.

If you are looking for an opportunity to hone your intellectual gymnastics skills, and pick up a few new ones along the way, take the first step.

I. Job Summary:

The Manager/Senior Manager, Public Affairs will support our growing Public Affairs practice in Malaysia by providing strategic counsel to our clients in the market, leading the development and execution of advocacy strategies on their behalf and, where relevant, providing connections to stakeholders. Building and maintaining strong networks across a variety of sectors will be key, along with monitoring policy and market developments in Malaysia.

II. The Role:

• Responsible for developing and driving innovative and focused strategies to meet our clients’ rapidly changing needs and priorities, and providing strategic counsel across clients which will include collaborating with in-house teams across the region and external contractors to identify relevant issues and helping clients effectively navigate risks across multiple verticals and disciplines.

• Actively contribute to the Partners’ development of a strategic business plan for Malaysia, with specific focus on growing our client footprint in the market, and the wider region (where relevant). This may also include articulating thought leadership on issues of interest in the media or at events/conferences.

• Track and strategically advise on the impact of developing trends across multiple verticals including the public sector’s legislative and policy posturing for our clients’ operations.

• Develop, maintain and expand a robust network of contacts across sectors, particularly in government, business communities, the media and non-government groupings to enhance the firm’s key client relationships.

III. Organizational Structure:

• The Manager/Senior Manager, Public Affairs works with both teams that are Malaysia-based and across the region, and reports to the Managing Director and Partners.

• The role will be based in Kuala Lumpur.

IV. About You:

• Minimum of 3 – 5 years experience in public affairs and/or government relations with a strong understanding of conceptualising and executing advocacy strategies. Individuals who have worked in government are preferable, but not necessary. Possessing a regional/global perspective is essential.

• A strong and positive sense of vision in navigating complex issues and environments to meet our clients’ needs.

• Strong business acumen and in-depth understanding of the political, regulatory, business and investment climate in Malaysia, and its impact on business realities.

• Possess a wide network of contacts in government, across businesses, media and NGO communities.

• Ability to operate professionally at Senior levels and have an eye for detail.

• A clear strategic thinker, strong collaborator and effective communicator who’s comfortable in a diverse and multi-cultural environment.