OLIVER THOMASSEN
Seattle
Summary
Strategic advisor and communications operator with extensive experience supporting Microsoft Vice Chair & President Brad Smith across global initiatives, public policy, and emerging technology domains. Skilled in crafting executive-ready content, designing narrative frameworks, and coordinating cross-functional teams to deliver consistent, and high-impacting communication. Adept at bridging technical complexity, geopolitical context, and organizational priorities into concise, actionable communication for senior leaders.
Overview
18
18
years of professional experience
Work History
Director, Office of the Vice-Chair & President
Microsoft Corporation
Redmond
11.2021 - 09.2025
- Since 2016, I served in the Corporate, External Legal Affairs (CELA) department supporting global policy operations and executive communications. My most recent role managed external engagements and communication strategy for Vice Chair & President Brad Smith, shaping narratives, messaging, and engagement frameworks across AI, cybersecurity, and emerging technologies.
- Develop and refine executive speeches, scripts, talking points, and briefings for Brad Smith across internal Microsoft events, and major global forums.
- Translate complex technical concepts — AI safety, quantum computing, fusion energy, cybersecurity, cloud infrastructure — into clear, compelling narratives tailored to diverse audiences.
- Define executive communication priorities by aligning global policy developments and business strategy into cohesive leadership messaging.
- Lead preparation for Brad Smith’s participation in the UNGA, World Economic Forum, Munich Security Conference, Paris Peace Forum, COP, Web Summit, and other prominent convenings.
- Manage 30+ international and domestic engagements per year, ensuring message alignment with the geopolitical context and Microsoft’s digital policy agenda.
- Create narrative frameworks and briefing architectures that distill complex issues into concise, actionable insights for executive decision-making.
- Coordinate cross-functional messaging input across engineering, legal, research, comms, and government affairs to ensure aligned, polished executive deliverables.
- Represent the Office of the Vice Chair in engagements with ambassadors, ministers, CEOs, NGOs, and multilateral institutions.
- Review press materials, validate messaging accuracy, and prepare Brad Smith for international media engagements.
- Provide rapid-turn, high-judgment communication support during sensitive, or time-critical situations.
- Sole manager of TNSAC, an internal advisory network of senior, former government leaders focused on AI, cybersecurity, and national security.
- Lead all meeting design, content creation, briefing materials, communication outputs, and coordination for quarterly in-person convenings.
Senior Manager, Global Public Affairs
Microsoft Corporation
Redmond
01.2019 - 10.2021
- Drafted executive-ready narratives and internal communication materials supporting Microsoft’s leadership in responsible AI, digital sovereignty, and global governance.
- Built an integrated global engagement and communication system linking regional policy, research, and communications teams to improve message consistency.
- Designed and managed internal reporting platforms and messaging hubs, enabling synchronized talking points and real-time updates.
- Strengthened partnerships and coalitions advancing digital safety, AI trust, and global governance standards.
Program Manager
Prime 8 Consulting
Kirkland
01.2016 - 01.2019
- Developed a global policy risk forecasting database, integrating cross-organizational inputs to improve Microsoft’s awareness of emerging regulatory trends.
- Designed quarterly analytics, KPIs, and dashboards to evaluate international public policy effectiveness, and executive visibility.
- Managed cross-functional workflow across Redmond and international policy teams to support global executive programs.
Policy Assistant
U.S. Chamber of Commerce
Brussels
01.2012 - 01.2013
- Drafted and edited policy communications for a transatlantic trade coalition, increasing visibility among European business and government stakeholders.
- Coordinated outreach events with EU officials and U.S. business leaders should support bilateral advocacy efforts.
- Produced research, briefing materials, and follow-up documentation for senior leadership engagements.
Policy Coordinator
British Embassy to the European Union
Brussels
01.2008 - 01.2012
- Organized diplomatic visit programs and prepared briefing materials supporting the Ambassador’s engagements with EU institutions.
- Liaised with senior policy leads across the European Commission, Parliament, and Council to support UK technology and trade priorities.
Education
Master’s - International Relations & Diplomacy
College of Europe
Bruges, Belgium01.2007
Bachelor of Arts - History
University of Washington
Seattle06-2004
Bachelor of Arts - Political Science
University of Washington
Seattle, WA01.2004
Skills
- Executive communication
- Strategic messaging
- Global engagement
- Government relations
- Public affairs strategy
- Corporate communications
- Operations management
Websites
Timeline
Director, Office of the Vice-Chair & President
Microsoft Corporation
11.2021 - 09.2025
Senior Manager, Global Public Affairs
Microsoft Corporation
01.2019 - 10.2021
Program Manager
Prime 8 Consulting
01.2016 - 01.2019
Policy Assistant
U.S. Chamber of Commerce
01.2012 - 01.2013
Policy Coordinator
British Embassy to the European Union
01.2008 - 01.2012
Master’s - International Relations & Diplomacy
College of Europe
Bachelor of Arts - History
University of Washington
Bachelor of Arts - Political Science
University of Washington