Vice President, U.S.–China
About PAX sapiens
PAX sapiens is a grantmaking and operating foundation whose mission is to prevent predictable global catastrophes. The foundation advances human security and sustainable peace by strengthening systems for pandemic prevention, reducing the risk of nuclear conflict, and promoting constructive U.S.–China engagement. PAX sapiens works through grants, partnerships, and convenings to build coalitions that reduce existential risks. The organization’s culture is collaborative, intellectually curious, and values-driven — bringing together diverse leaders to create a safer and more resilient world.
About the Role
The Vice President, U.S.–China Relations, will lead PAX’s portfolio focused on governance and foresight within the U.S.–China relationship — a key determinant of global stability and risk prevention. This includes shaping strategic priorities, guiding senior fellows and grantees, and building trusted partnerships across government, academia, and philanthropy.
The VP will represent PAX in international dialogues and help translate policy and scientific insights into collaborative initiatives in areas such as counter-narcotics, global health, and technology governance. This includes addressing the global impact of synthetic opioids and their precursor chemicals, particularly efforts to prevent illicit fentanyl flows from China. The ideal candidate combines geopolitical insight, credibility in both U.S. and Chinese contexts, and a collaborative leadership style that fosters trust and shared purpose.
Duties and Responsibilities
- Lead PAX’s strategy for constructive U.S.–China engagement, including planning, budgeting, and program oversight.
- Represent PAX as its senior leader on U.S.–China issues in dialogues, convenings, and partnerships.
- Develop initiatives that advance cooperation and reduce systemic risk across domains such as technology governance, biosafety, and counter-narcotics.
- Build and sustain partnerships with think tanks, universities, and policy institutions in both the U.S. and China, fostering equitable collaboration and regulatory compliance.
- Guide and coordinate the work of senior fellows and advisors engaged on China-related themes.
- Serve as a trusted advisor to PAX leadership on geopolitical and governance risks relevant to its mission.
- Oversee budgets, grants, and performance metrics across the U.S.–China portfolio.
- Travel internationally (~20–25%) for partner engagement and collaboration with PAX teams in Broomfield, Washington, and Beijing.
Skills and Experience
- At least 10 years of experience in U.S.–China relations, diplomacy, or international policy/governance.
- Proven experience shaping or implementing policy initiatives that bridge political, cultural, or institutional divides.
- Deep understanding of U.S. and Chinese policy systems and their global influence, particularly in fields such as global health, technology, or counter-narcotics.
- Demonstrated ability to build trusted relationships across government, academia, and philanthropy.
- Effective communicator able to represent complex issues with clarity and diplomacy.
- Proven record of program leadership, including oversight of budgets and partnerships.
- Master’s degree required; PhD an asset.
- Proficiency in Mandarin Chinese strongly preferred; deep cultural fluency essential.
Equal Opportunity Employer:
PAX sapiens celebrates diversity and welcomes its benefits and is proud to be an equal opportunity workplace. The organization is committed to equal employment opportunity regardless of race, color, ancestry, religion, gender identity, national origin, sexual orientation, age, citizenship, marital status, disability, or veteran status. If you have a disability or special need that requires accommodation, please let us know.