Public Affairs Manager

Overview:

• As our Public Affairs Manager you will focus on the coordination of public affairs strategy, achieving support by regulators and value chain partners for product offering. 
• This is a global role with a key focus on the European Union. 
• You report to the Senior Director Public Affairs and Communications, and will have a strong connection to our Corporate HQ in Amsterdam.
• The nature of the position requires frequent presence in Brussels. 
• We do support hybrid working from Belgium or The Netherlands.

Responsibilities:

• Develop the strategic direction for advocacy work (with an initial focus on the EU) and its translation into specific objectives and action plans, in collaboration with sr. dr. corporate communication and company experts.
• Identify and address legislative and political risks and opportunities impacting
• Advocacy with policy makers, government officials, regulators to support business objectives.
• Shape narrative and messaging for use with key stakeholders that takes into account the sustainability agenda and leading the development of new advocacy materials that communicate the value of for policymakers in a compelling way.
• Develop and maintain key relationships with external stakeholders such as key officials and politicians in the EU institutions, Member State Permanent, Representations, trade associations, NGOs, industry peers and other stakeholders.
• Develop and maintain key relationships with relevant internal stakeholders and assist with the communication and education of policy issues and positions.
• Represent to policymakers and, together with experts industry, trade associations, think-tanks and other forums, and ensure is perceived to be an active, forward thinking participant in the policy debate.
• Brief senior management ahead of meetings with for instance representatives from the European Parliament, European Commission, NGOs, research institutes.
• Produce regular insights on political developments that may impact the industry.

Requirements:

• University degree (or equivalent), Master’s degree - an advantage.
• At least 6 years of experience in public affairs, regulatory affairs and/or policies in the EU, experience in the US - an advantage.
• Good understanding of the EU policy files resorting under the Farm to Fork Strategy, Sustainable Chemicals Strategy, the Circular Economy Action Plan and the Fit for 55 Package.
• Experienced in creating effective relationships with key stakeholders, government officials and other relevant value chain partners in the field of plastics.
• Thrives on a challenging and fast-paced environment.
• Professional-level writing, editing, messaging and storytelling skills.
• Excellent diplomacy, interpersonal, and communication skills, and a high level of integrity.
• Ability to effectively network and function in a complex internal and external ecosystem of colleagues, stakeholders, and influencers.