Public Policy Manager, APAC

Canva; United States; Remote; USD 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

Canva is seeking a Public Policy & Government Affairs leader to shape tech policy in APAC, ensuring the company's reputation aligns with its values. The role involves collaboration across departments and engagement with policymakers, perfect for an experienced professional in the legal or regulatory space.

Benefits

Equity packages

Inclusive parental leave policy

Annual Vibe & Thrive allowance

Flexible leave options

Qualifications

• 5-8 years of experience in public policy, government relations, or legal roles.
• Strong grasp of tech policy developments in Australia and APAC.
• Excellent writing and communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead policy and government affairs efforts across APAC.
• Monitor and respond to policy developments in AI and online safety.
• Draft high-impact briefs and submissions aligned with Canva’s values.

Skills

Public Policy

Government Relations

Legal

Regulatory Affairs

Communication

Job description

Join the team redefining how the world experiences design.

Hello, hey, g'day, mabuhay, kia ora, 你好, hallo, vítejte!

Thanks for stopping by. We know job hunting can be a little time consuming and you're probably keen to find out what's on offer, so we'll get straight to the point.

Where and how you can work

Our flagship office is in Sydney, Australia, but we've made our way from down under, to a campus in Austin, Texas which is now home to our US operations.

What you’d be doing in this role

As Canva scales, change continues to be part of our DNA. But we like to think that's all part of the fun. So this will give you the flavour of the type of things you'll be working on when you start, but will likely evolve.

Public Policy & Government Affairs is becoming increasingly critical to our growth and reputation. In this role, you’ll help shape the future of tech policy in one of the world’s most dynamic regions — ensuring Canva shows up as a trusted, responsible, and human-centred platform.

About the team

Public Policy & Government Affairs at Canva exists to protect, support, and grow the business. We do that by shaping regulation, advising internal teams, and showing up as a values-led company in key markets. This role sits within the Legal Supergroup and works closely with global policy leadership as well as Canva’s Sydney-based cross-functional teams.

You’ll be responsible for:

• Leading Canva’s policy and government affairs efforts across APAC, including Australia.
• Monitoring and responding to policy and regulatory developments in areas like AI, online safety, competition, and intermediary liability.
• Drafting high-impact internal briefs, external submissions, and thought leadership aligned with Canva’s tone and values.
• Building trusted relationships with policymakers, regulators, industry associations, and civil society.
• Representing Canva in trade associations and consultations, making sure our voice is part of the conversation.
• Collaborating cross-functionally with Legal, Product, Trust & Safety, Marketing, and Comms to guide our external posture and internal readiness.

You're probably a match if:

• You have 5-8 years of experience in public policy, government relations, legal, or regulatory roles (in-house, public sector, consultancy, or NGO).
• You’re across digital regulation across APAC, with a strong grasp of tech policy developments in Australia and regional markets.
• You have excellent writing and communication skills — and can turn complex issues into clear, actionable advice.
• You’re a natural relationship builder who can earn trust with both internal partners and external stakeholders.
• You’re comfortable working independently and navigating ambiguity in a fast-paced, mission-driven environment.
• You’re curious, collaborative, and passionate about the role of technology in society.
• Bonus: experience in legal, policy or the public sector; legal or regulatory qualifications; fluency in a second APAC language.

What's in it for you?

Achieving our crazy big goals motivates us to work hard - and we do - but you'll experience lots of moments of magic, connectivity and fun woven throughout life at Canva, too. We also offer a range of benefits to set you up for every success in and outside of work.

Here's a taste of what's on offer:

• Equity packages - we want our success to be yours too
• Inclusive parental leave policy that supports all parents & carers
• An annual Vibe & Thrive allowance to support your wellbeing, social connection, office setup & more
• Flexible leave options that empower you to be a force for good, take time to recharge and supports you personally

Check out lifeatcanva.com for more info.

Other stuff to know

We make hiring decisions based on your experience, skills and passion, as well as how you can enhance Canva and our culture. When you apply, please tell us the pronouns you use and any reasonable adjustments you may need during the interview process.

We celebrate all types of skills and backgrounds at Canva so even if you don’t feel like your skills quite match what’s listed above - we still want to hear from you!

Please note that interviews are conducted virtually.