Associate Public Affairs Director (Online Lending Platform)

This role requires the candidate to work on-site in Makati City, Philippines.

Client Overview

Our client is a confidential, licensed financial technology company operating one of the Philippines' leading digital lending platforms. Backed by an international technology group with extensive expertise in artificial intelligence, big data, and digital financial services, the company delivers accessible and technology-driven lending solutions to millions of consumers while maintaining the highest standards of regulatory compliance and operational integrity.

Operating in one of Southeast Asia's most closely regulated financial ecosystems, the organization works closely with government agencies and financial regulators to ensure responsible lending practices, data privacy compliance, cybersecurity, and sustainable business growth.

As part of its continued expansion, the company is seeking an experienced executive to lead its public affairs, regulatory engagement, and government relations strategy in the Philippines. Please note that this is a confidential executive search. The company name and additional details will only be disclosed to shortlisted candidates during the interview process.

Job Role

The Associate Public Affairs Director will lead the company's government relations, regulatory strategy, licensing support, and public policy initiatives across the Philippines. Acting as the primary liaison between executive leadership and key government agencies, this role will safeguard regulatory compliance, strengthen institutional relationships, and support long-term business growth within the highly regulated digital financial services sector.

The successful candidate will work closely with senior management, legal, compliance, and operations teams while maintaining strategic relationships with major regulatory authorities, industry associations, and public sector stakeholders.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and execute the company's government relations, regulatory affairs, and public policy strategy.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with key government agencies, regulators, legislators, and industry associations.
• Serve as the primary liaison with regulatory authorities including the SEC, BSP, CIC, NPC, NBI, and PNP.
• Monitor legislative developments, regulatory updates, and policy changes affecting digital lending and financial services.
• Provide strategic advice to executive leadership regarding regulatory risks, licensing matters, and public policy developments.
• Coordinate with Legal and Compliance teams to ensure alignment with Philippine financial regulations, AML requirements, consumer protection laws, and data privacy regulations.
• Lead government engagement initiatives, regulatory communications, industry forums, and stakeholder meetings.
• Develop crisis communication strategies and manage regulatory or public affairs issues that may impact business operations or corporate reputation.

Candidate Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Political Science, Economics, Business Administration, Law, Public Administration, or a related discipline.
• Filipino national.
• Minimum 8–12 years of experience in Government Relations, Public Affairs, Regulatory Affairs, Corporate Communications, or Public Policy.
• Proven leadership experience within FinTech, Financial Services, Digital Lending, Banking, Telecommunications, or Technology industries.
• Extensive experience engaging with Philippine government agencies and financial regulators.
• Strong professional network across SEC, BSP, CIC, NPC, NBI, PNP, and other relevant government institutions.
• Deep understanding of Philippine financial regulations, digital lending regulations, consumer protection, data privacy, and regulatory compliance frameworks.
• Strong executive presence with excellent stakeholder management, negotiation, and communication skills.
• High integrity and ability to manage confidential and sensitive matters.
• Professional English proficiency is mandatory.

Job Code: #823