Senior Manager, Export Controls
WFA Digital Insight
The demand for export control specialists has grown significantly in recent years, with a 25% increase in job postings in 2025 alone. As companies like Openai expand their global reach, the need for experts who can navigate complex regulations and ensure compliance has become critical. With the rise of remote work, professionals with digital skills and experience in export controls are in high demand. Openai, a leader in AI technology, is now seeking a senior manager to lead their export controls strategy and operations. Candidates should be aware that this role requires a deep understanding of export regulations, leadership abilities, and the capacity to work in a fast-paced, innovative environment.
Job Description
About the Role
The Senior Manager, Export Controls position at Openai is a critical role that requires a unique blend of technical expertise, leadership skills, and strategic vision. As a senior member of the Tax and Trade team, the successful candidate will be responsible for leading the development and implementation of Openai's export controls strategy and operating model. This involves working closely with various stakeholders, including research and infrastructure teams, to ensure that the company's export controls program is robust, scalable, and compliant with all relevant regulations.The role entails refining the export classification and licensing strategy for controlled technical data, software, and hardware, as well as structuring access-controlled environments and managing supplier commitments. The senior manager will also be responsible for partnering with technical teams to develop durable classification and control models, and for translating policy into documented technical controls.
What You Will Do
- Refine the strategy and operating model for Openai's export controls program across advanced computing, semiconductors, software, hardware, manufacturing, and high technology partnerships
- Own export classification and licensing strategy for controlled technical data, software, and hardware
- Lead the design and operation of compliant controlled environments and related governance processes
- Partner with Research and Infrastructure to support efficient researcher access while maintaining clear control boundaries
- Partner with technical teams to develop durable classification and control models
- Partner cross-functionally to translate policy into documented technical controls, logging, evidence, access boundaries, and exception handling
- Lead supplier-facing compliance processes, including onboarding requirements, certifications, and relevant contractual controls
- Build and administer Technology Control Plan processes, including briefings, acknowledgements, operating materials, completion tracking, and escalation paths
- Develop service levels, metrics, and reporting that improve access velocity, supplier onboarding, and decision quality
- Build internal tooling and an AI- and agent-enabled operating model
What We Are Looking For
- A Bachelor's degree or equivalent practical experience in engineering, computer science, physics, international trade, law, public policy, or a related field
- Significant experience leading export controls, trade compliance, or a closely related function in advanced computing, semiconductors, electronics, or other high-technology domains
- Deep expertise in export controls, including classification, licensing, deemed exports, end-use and end-user restrictions, and controls on technical data and software
- Direct experience working on advanced computing and advanced semiconductor controls
- Strong leadership judgment and a track record of building and scaling programs in fast-moving technology companies and complex multinational environments
- Experience translating policy into workflows, systems requirements, service levels, operating guidance, and measurable business outcomes
- The ability to work credibly with researchers, infrastructure engineers, hardware engineers, chip-design teams, Security, and Legal
Nice to Have
- Advanced technical, legal, or policy training
- Experience with AI and agentic workflows
- Knowledge of cutting-edge technology, including governed AI and automation
- Certification in export controls or a related field
- Experience managing service providers and cross-functional programs
Benefits and Perks
- Competitive salary and equity package
- Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance
- Generous PTO and holiday policy
- Remote work stipend and flexible work arrangements
- Opportunities for professional development and growth
- Access to cutting-edge technology and innovative projects
- Collaborative and dynamic work environment
How to Stand Out
- To stand out in this role, highlight your experience with export controls, particularly in advanced computing and semiconductors.
- Be prepared to discuss your approach to building and scaling export controls programs in fast-moving technology companies.
- Showcase your ability to work credibly with various stakeholders, including researchers, engineers, and legal teams.
- Familiarize yourself with Openai's products and services, and be prepared to discuss how your skills and experience align with the company's mission.
- Emphasize your experience with AI and agentic workflows, and highlight any relevant certifications or training.
- Be prepared to provide examples of your experience with supplier-facing compliance processes and Technology Control Plan development.
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