Are you looking to actively contribute to a safe and sustainable future? Come and join us to #ChangePlasticsForGood.

What we are looking for

We are looking for a Technical Affairs and Consumer Safety Manager to assist the work of our Strategic Council focusing on Safe and Sustainable uses of plastics. The ideal candidate should have a technical background in toxicology/epidemiology or environmental chemistry and good understanding of chemical management, safety, and sustainability, and issues relevant to the EU Plastics Industry.

The role provides a unique opportunity to grow professionally and personally in a dynamic environment alongside a top team and industry experts.

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

As Technical Affairs and Consumer Safety Manager, you take the lead on activities relating to technical and other developments in priority areas related to chemical management, plastics safety and sustainability regulations applicable to plastics during their use. Your responsibilities are to:

• Establish yourself as the go-to expert for technical issues related to chemical management and plastics safety and sustainability regulations applicable to plastics during their use. As such you stay updated on industry trends, technological advancements, and regulatory changes in the plastics sector.
• Monitor, interpret and provide intelligence on relevant technical, scientific, and regulatory affairs linked to the use of plastics including additives safety.
• Identify risks and opportunities in the policy & scientific landscape and provide your expertise to support Plastics Europe’s advocacy & communication strategies.
• Consult with members and drive consensus towards positions on issues of common interest with aim to promote safety, sustainability, and transparency.
• Work alongside the External Affairs team to develop positions that promote sustainable use of plastics. Provide technical input and expertise to shape policy positions and regulatory recommendations.
• Coordinate and contribute to technical analyses, projects, and reports. Draft technical analyses, briefings, positions, and presentations and communicate these to our relevant member groups.
• Manage internal member groups, including the preparation of meeting agendas, minutes, presentation, briefings, documents, and logistics.
• Represent Plastics Europe at relevant external conferences and workshops and gain insights into external debates and views.
• Develop and maintain a network of relevant contacts and establish effective working relationships with the value chain, interest groups, decision makers, and representatives within EU institutions and other stakeholders relevant to chemical management, and safety and sustainability of plastics.
• Collaborate with Communication and External affairs teams to align technical insights with advocacy and public relations efforts.

Location

• The role is based in Brussels.

What does it take to succeed in this role? 

• Strategic thinking skills with an ability to interpret internal and external trends and changes and contribute to key strategic positions and communications.
• Strong ability to analyse and translate complex technical & scientific data, ideas and concepts into structured, concise, and convincing outputs. Coupled to a capacity to adjust language and content complexity to audiences with varying backgrounds.
• Be proactive, accountable and take full ownership for the allocated priority areas.
• Ability to build trust and good working relationships at different levels and use empathy and knowledge to shape change.
• Diplomatic mind-set with ability to lead and drive compromise in challenging situations.
• Robust communication and presentation
• Solid programme/project management skills.
• Team player mindset and advanced organisational skills.
• Demonstrated environmental awareness and drive for sustainability.
• Professional in dealing with sensitive or confidential information.

Requirements

• University or Higher Education degree in (eco)toxicology, epidemiology, environmental chemistry or chemical/environmental engineer. Other technical backgrounds possible with a proven track record working on issues related to this profile in the wider plastics industry sector or value chain.
• At least 5 years’ experience
• Proven experience in sustainability, consultancy, trade associations, or regulatory/ public affairs within the plastics industry (from production, compounding, material usage or recycling) or a related field.
• Experience in strategic planning and positioning within a policy or industry context.
• Experience in preparing detailed positions, reports, policy briefs, and technical documents.
• Experience in industry sectors such as packaging, automotive, construction, or electronics, and proven knowledge of EU chemicals management regulatory frameworks
• Excellent communication skills (oral and written) in English - additional EU languages would be beneficial.

Interested?

• Please send your application with a compelling cover letter (2 pages max) and CV Via the APPLY button below.
• Deadline for application: 16 August 2024

APPLY HERE