Head of Government Relations

Head of Government Relations

Full-Time 60000 - 80000 £ / year (est.) No working from home possible
JD.COM

At a Glance

  • Tasks: Build and sustain relationships with government entities and regulators across Europe.
  • Company: Join JD.com, a global leader in technology and supply chain ecosystems.
  • Benefits: Competitive salary, supportive culture, and opportunities for growth and innovation.
  • Other info: Be part of a diverse and inclusive workplace where every voice matters.
  • Why this job: Shape JD.com's European story and make a real impact in government relations.
  • Qualifications: Strong experience in Public Policy or Government Relations, especially in the EU or UK.

The predicted salary is between 60000 - 80000 £ per year.

At JD.com, also known as JINGDONG, we are building one of the world's most trusted technology and supply chain ecosystems. What started as a bold idea in China has evolved into a NASDAQ-listed, Fortune 44 global enterprise serving over 700 million active customers. Powered by advanced logistics, innovative technology, and a commitment to integrity, JD.com operates across retail, logistics, technology, property and more, creating solutions that make everyday life smarter, faster, and more connected.

JD.com is expanding its international footprint through a digitally intelligent, cross-border supply chain and world-class logistics network, supported by platforms such as Joybuy, which brings trusted products to customers worldwide. Today, our teams operate across China, the U.S., U.K., Netherlands, France, Germany, Spain, Brazil, Hungary, Japan, South Korea, Australia, Thailand, Vietnam, Malaysia, Indonesia, Saudi Arabia, the UAE and beyond, reaching customers in every corner of the world.

This is JD.com’s first European Public Policy and Government Affairs hire. Reporting to the Chief Compliance Officer, you will build out our Government affairs and policy capabilities. The business launched across six markets in March 2026 and operates as a retailer, marketplace, China-sourced private label manufacturer, logistics operator, and OTC pharmacy. The regulatory agenda is growing as JD looks to expand its business. As JD expands into Europe we need someone who can engage credibly with European regulators and distinguish its business from other market entrants. The Government Relations function does not yet exist. You will have direct access to the CCO and CEO, and the scope to build something from the ground up at a company at the start of its European story.

What You'll Do

  • Help build and sustain long-term European relationships with government entities, regulators, and industry organisations aligned with corporate strategy and regional needs across all six markets including on digital, competition and ecommerce practices, customs reform, product compliance, safety, trading standards, EPR and sustainability, AI and digital, and supply chain.
  • Manage JD's positioning on key issues and policies impacting its business including for ecommerce retailers and marketplace providers, and help elevate government-level recognition and brand image, and foster a positive external environment for business growth.
  • Support necessary government engagement for business expansion into new market lines and countries including healthcare and private label.
  • Cultivate and maintain strategic partnerships with provincial, municipal, and district government bodies and regulatory agencies.
  • Represent JD in policy consultations on new regulations.
  • Support the Compliance team regarding regulatory investigations, inspections and enforcement issues.
  • Support the Compliance team and Executives with regulatory horizon scanning, analysing their implications for business operations. Develop actionable advisories and response frameworks to align internal strategies with external opportunities.
  • Lead cross-functional efforts to secure policy incentives, grants, and strategic endorsements, positioning the company as a priority partner for government support.
  • Liaise with the Public Relations sub-team to ensure external communications are consistent with regulatory positioning and support them to mitigate risks arising from regulatory scrutiny or public affairs crises.
  • Serve as the nexus between JD Group's business units and government stakeholders.

About You

  • Strong experience in Public Policy, Regulatory Affairs, or Government Relations with senior EU or UK regulatory engagement.
  • Confident grasp of the EU digital regulatory landscape.
  • Comfortable as a first hire and team-builder; there is no established function here.
  • Experience in ecommerce, digital platforms, retail, or technology - in-house or advisory.
  • Experience in or alongside Chinese-owned companies engaging with European regulators is significant benefit.
  • Multi-lingual and mandarin language skills an advantage.

What We Offer

Joining JD.com means becoming part of a company where people, innovation, and impact go hand in hand. We offer a competitive salary, a great location, and a supportive, people-first culture where your growth truly matters. With access to global projects, learning opportunities, and an inclusive environment that values every voice, you'll have the space to shape the future with us. At JD.com, we're committed to building a diverse and inclusive workplace where everyone can thrive. We're proud to be an equal opportunity employer and make all employment decisions without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, age, veteran status, or any other protected characteristic.

Ready to apply? Take the next step in your career, apply now and explore the opportunities we have to offer.

Head of Government Relations employer: JD.COM

At JD.com, we pride ourselves on being a forward-thinking employer that values innovation and employee growth. As the Head of Government Relations, you will have the unique opportunity to shape our European strategy from the ground up in a supportive, people-first culture that prioritises your professional development. With competitive salaries, access to global projects, and a commitment to diversity and inclusion, JD.com is an excellent place for those looking to make a meaningful impact in a dynamic environment.

JD.COM

Contact Details:

JD.COM Recruitment Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫

We think this is how you could land Head of Government Relations

Tip Number 1

Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with people in the industry. Attend events, join online forums, and don’t be shy to reach out on LinkedIn. Building relationships can open doors that a CV just can’t.

Tip Number 2

Research is key! Know the ins and outs of JD.com and its competitors. Understand their challenges and how you can help. This will not only impress during interviews but also show your genuine interest in the role.

Tip Number 3

Prepare for those tricky questions! Think about how your experience aligns with JD.com’s goals, especially in government relations. Practise your responses so you can articulate your thoughts clearly and confidently.

Tip Number 4

Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the team at JD.com. Let’s make it happen!

We think you need these skills to ace Head of Government Relations

Public Policy
Regulatory Affairs
Government Relations
EU Regulatory Engagement
Ecommerce Knowledge
Digital Platforms Experience
Retail Industry Understanding

Some tips for your application 🫡

Know Your Stuff:Before you start writing, make sure you understand JD.com and the role of Head of Government Relations. Dive into our mission, values, and what we’re all about. This will help you tailor your application to show how you fit right in with us.

Be Authentic:When you're writing your application, let your personality shine through! We want to see the real you, so don’t be afraid to share your unique experiences and perspectives. It’s all about making a genuine connection with us.

Highlight Relevant Experience:Make sure to showcase your experience in Public Policy, Regulatory Affairs, or Government Relations. Use specific examples that demonstrate your skills and how they align with what we’re looking for. This is your chance to show us why you’re the perfect fit!

Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to the right people. Plus, it shows us you’re serious about joining our team at JD.com!

How to prepare for a job interview at JD.COM

Know Your Stuff

Before the interview, dive deep into JD.com's operations, especially in Europe. Understand their business model, recent expansions, and how they engage with regulators. This knowledge will help you speak confidently about how you can contribute to their government relations strategy.

Showcase Your Network

Highlight any existing relationships you have with European regulators or industry organisations. Be ready to discuss how these connections can benefit JD.com as they navigate the regulatory landscape in Europe.

Demonstrate Strategic Thinking

Prepare examples of how you've successfully built government relations or public policy strategies in the past. Discuss your approach to aligning internal strategies with external opportunities, especially in the context of e-commerce and digital regulations.

Be Ready to Build

Since this is a new role, emphasise your experience in building teams and functions from scratch. Share your vision for establishing JD.com's government relations function and how you plan to foster relationships that support business growth across multiple markets.