We are looking for a new Manager who will be responsible for providing technical and regulatory affairs expertise to help shape and implement Plastics Europe’s strategy and positioning on plastic policy with a focus on developments at the global level.
Who we are looking for
We are seeking a Circular Economy Manager – International Affairs to join our team at Plastics Europe. You will be part of the Strategic Council responsible for plastics end-of-life and circularity. As the Circular Economy Manager – International Affairs, you will be responsible for providing technical and regulatory affairs expertise to help shape Plastics Europe’s strategy and positioning on plastic policy. The focus will be on developments at the global level, including the global agreement on plastic pollution. You will be in charge of identifying and prioritizing issues, managing member task forces, and supporting with building consensus around key positions. Your position will also entail creating links and driving collaboration across EU and international partners and the value chain.
We offer a challenging and rewarding work environment, and opportunities for professional growth and development. If you are passionate about shaping the future of the plastics industry towards a more sustainable and circular economy, we want to hear from you!
Who we are
Plastics Europe is the pan-European association of plastics manufacturers with offices across Europe. For over 100 years, science and innovation has been the DNA that cuts across our industry. With close to 100 members producing over 90% of all polymers across Europe, we are the catalyst for the industry with a responsibility to openly engage with stakeholders and deliver solutions which are safe, circular and sustainable. We are committed to implementing long-lasting positive change.
About the Position
You will be part of Strategic Council III that is responsible for the Association’s work on plastics end-of-life and circularity. The Strategic Council’s role is to advise on and propose positions to take towards new legislative, technical and strategically relevant developments at the EU and international levels through regulatory, technical & scientific expertise and industry know-how.
The responsibilities are as follows:
- Coordinate strategic planning and positioning for the Strategic Council responsible for plastics end-of-life and circularity. This involves staying informed on industry and market trends, engaging regularly with members and stakeholders, and bringing the external view to the organisation and its membership.
- Analyse and interpret technical data and information to inform decision-making, enhance knowledge, and support the transformation of the industry. Effectively communicate this information to both technical and non-technical audiences.
- Advise the Managing Director, the Strategic Council III Director, and other department Directors on circular economy related matters.
- Support and guide members towards a strong proactive positioning in negotiations related to plastic waste and promote circularity of plastics. This includes managing task forces and other collaboration groups as applicable.
- Develop clear and evidence-based positions to ensure solid negotiation positions or to challenge proposals that do not support sustainability targets. Align these positions with relevant Plastics Europe’s studies and upcoming roadmap.
- Coordinate the adaptation of Plastics Europe’s EU positions to the international context. This includes consulting members on the process of international agreement negotiations and sharing external stakeholder views with relevant staff and member groups.
- Ensure positions, strategies, and actions are aligned with the expectations of external stakeholders, relevant to the current political landscape, and developed in a timely manner to effectively influence.
- Represent Plastics Europe and engage in the coordination of the World Plastics Council (WPC) and International Council of Chemical Associations – Plastic Leadership Group (ICCA – PLG) and represent Plastics Europe and WPC at international events and conferences.
- Engage with other global associations or groups related to the plastics industry’s interests as applicable.
You will be based at Plastics Europe’s offices in Brussels and will report directly to the Strategic Council III Director. Occasional global travel will be required for this position.
Profile
To succeed in this role, we are seeking a candidate with the following key competencies:
- Strategic and analytical thinking with an awareness of the political and social environment impacting our Members.
- Strong analytical skills with the ability to convey technical information to non-technical audiences.
- Initiative-taking and a sense of ownership for the areas you cover.
- Excellent interpersonal and communication skills with the ability to work collaboratively, build and maintain relationships with stakeholders.
- Demonstrated organisational & project management skills, with the ability to manage time and work to deadlines.
- A pro-active, flexible, and ‘hands-on’ approach to work.
- Excellent communication and writing skills in English, including drafting positions, messaging, and consultation responses. Knowledge of additional European languages is an advantage.
Requirements
- A Master’s degree or equivalent in chemistry, chemical engineering, environmental science, or related fields. Alternatively, other backgrounds such as international law are possible with relevant experience working in the wider chemical or plastics systems or other related sectors.
- At least 5 years of relevant professional experience in/with the chemical or plastics industry, sustainability, or sector with similar challenges, with knowledge, interest or affinity for regulatory and policy affairs.
- Knowledge of and interest in EU and global legislation and regulatory frameworks related to sustainability, climate change, plastic waste, and circularity of plastics.
- Strong managerial skills and the ability to build consensus and find common ground.
- A passion for sustainability and a commitment to reducing plastic waste in the environment.
- Competency in strategic planning and positioning, and technical information analysis and communication.
Interested?
Deadline for applications: 30 June 2023. Please send your application with compelling cover letter (2 pages max) and CV to our recruitment partner: serge.gomme@hudsonsolutions.com and Cc. vacancies@plasticseurope.org. SUBJECT line: Circular Economy Manager – International Affairs
PlasticsEurope is an equal opportunity employer, committed to achieving diversity within the workforce and creating an inclusive working environment. For this purpose, we welcome applications from all qualified candidates irrespective of gender, sexual orientation, ethnicity, religion or beliefs, age, disability or other characteristics.
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