OpenAI hires Brent Thomas to lead public policy in ANZ
OpenAI has hired Brent Thomas to lead public policy in Australia and New Zealand, adding a senior regional policy executive as it expands its presence in Sydney.
Based in Sydney, Thomas will oversee policy work across both countries as Australian AI regulation shifts from broad guidance toward more formal rules for government agencies and commercial providers.
The appointment puts an experienced policy executive at the centre of OpenAI's dealings with governments and regulators in two markets where scrutiny of AI use, data governance and accountability is rising.
Policy context
Australia has tightened its approach to AI oversight in recent months. In December 2025, the Digital Transformation Agency updated its responsible AI policy for Commonwealth agencies, introducing stronger requirements for governance, accountability and risk controls.
The framework came into effect on 15 December 2025, with mandatory requirements phasing in from June 2026 and full compliance expected by December 2026.
On copyright, Australia has already ruled out a text and data mining exception for AI training, with the Attorney-General's Department instead consulting on licensing models and collective licensing options under the Copyright Act.
The policy direction is tilting toward rights-holder protections rather than broad AI industry exemptions.
Career background
Thomas brings extensive experience in policy and corporate affairs across technology, platform and payments companies. He previously held senior policy roles at TikTok, Airbnb, Mastercard and eBay, with responsibilities spanning government relations, regulatory engagement and industry policy.
At TikTok, he served as Global Public Policy Director for Australia, New Zealand and Taiwan, and at Airbnb as Head of Public Policy across Australasia, South Asia and South East Asia. He also served as Vice President, Public Policy and Corporate Affairs at Mastercard and as Head of Corporate Affairs at eBay in Australia and New Zealand.
Most recently, prior to joining OpenAI, he was Director of Strategic Relations at Halter.
Local build-out
The hire comes as OpenAI deepens its footprint in Australia following the opening of its Sydney office in late 2025.
The company has outlined plans to work with Australian partners on computing infrastructure, workforce development and startup support as part of its regional strategy.
As public agencies and businesses increase their use of generative AI tools, Thomas will lead OpenAI's engagement with governments and regulators across both markets.