Europe Director

Common Sense Media, a U.S. based non-profit, is the leading independent organisation devoted to helping children and families thrive in a world of media and technology. Every day, millions of families around the world turn to Common Sense Media for trusted advice and unbiased ratings.

We offer the largest library of independent age-based and educational ratings and reviews for everything kids want to watch, play, read, and learn about. Our Digital Literacy curriculum is used in more than 90,000 schools by more than 1.4 million teachers, offering teachers and students the essentials on how to navigate the digital world. We conduct original research on artificial intelligence, social media, technology, and kids and teens, and we work with policymakers, industry leaders, and other researchers to improve the media and education landscape for children and families globally.

Five years ago, Common Sense Media launched its first international office in the UK, and we’ve since established a robust advocacy footprint in the EU and Australia. We are seeking a Europe Director to serve as Common Sense Media’s lead ambassador and advocacy representative in the EU. The ideal candidate will be enthusiastic about building the organisation’s impact with European policymakers and other key partners and stakeholders to help shape the future of technology and media for children, families, and society.

LOCATION: Brussels, Belgium

REPORTS TO: Head of AI

SALARY RANGE: TBD based on experience and network

TO APPLY: Submit a resume and statement of interest to Deputy Chief of Staff, Bridget Morrison, at bmorrison@commonsense.org

RESPONSIBILITIES:

In collaboration with the Office of the CEO and our public policy team, build and operationalise Common Sense Media’s European advocacy and policy strategy to foster responsible technology for children and families, including on key issues such as online safety, digital well-being, AI policy, and media literacy.
Drive day-to-day advocacy on the ground for Common Sense Media in Europe.
Track and advise Common Sense Media’s Advocacy team on relevant technology policy developments and opportunities in Europe.
Manage and grow Common Sense Media’s relationships in Brussels and Paris with EU and French government stakeholders, international organisations, tech industry, and civil society partners and coalitions.
Represent Common Sense Media in advocacy-related meetings, convenings, and public engagements with the EU and EU member states, multilateral and international forums, the UK, and potentially globally over time.
Lead or orchestrate strategic, high-level convenings that amplify Common Sense Media’s advocacy mission and impact in the EU.
Develop or oversee analyses, briefings, and/or thought leadership material for publication regarding technology policy relevant to Common Sense Media’s mission, such as online safety, AI or emerging technologies, and other related areas.
Manage and help to build Common Sense Media operations in Europe.
Support budget management, fundraising, and people management over time.
Collaborate with EU- and UK-based consultants, global advisors, and U.S.-based leadership and staff to advance the organisation’s mission in Europe.
Localise the organisation’s international approach on related cross-functional programs such as research, education, AI initiatives, as well as fundraising, in collaboration with Common Sense Media leadership.
Support occasional (approximately bi-annual) travel of Common Sense Media CEO to Europe in collaboration with the CEO’s office, to facilitate on-the-ground meetings, speaking opportunities, or events to strengthen the organisation’s global leadership and profile.

QUALIFICATIONS:

At least five years of experience in advocacy, public policy, trust and safety, program management, or public affairs related role(s) in government, tech or media, academia and/or nonprofit sector.
Advanced degree in related discipline preferred but not required.
Experience working in or closely with European government bodies at the EU or country level in Brussels or Paris is strongly preferred.
Knowledge of and demonstrated interest in technology policy, ideally in area(s) related to Common Sense Media’s mission such as kids’ online safety, privacy, AI, children’s advocacy, or the impact of technology on democracy and society.
Fluency in English and at least one European language such as French, Spanish, or German.
Excellent written and oral communication skills.
Strong interpersonal and relationship-building skills.
Capable leader. People and project management experience preferred, but not required.
Entrepreneurial spirit and creative approach to problem solving, and ability to work independently in a fast-paced environment.
Occasional travel to Paris, Copenhagen, and/or London will likely be required.

Common Sense values the diversity of its employees and is an equal opportunity employer. For more information on our values, please visit our statement on diversity, equity, and inclusion.

Jobs in Brussels

Europe Director