Who are we?
Our world needs solutions, and we need them fast. A growing population and increasing standards of living drive our energy and material consumption. In order to keep global warming at bay, we need to reduce our carbon footprint substantially, in fact transition towards a climate neutral economy.
Avantium’s Vision: “We believe in a fossil-free world, let’s go!”
We create disruptive technologies to facilitate the sustainability change and bring them to the world with partners to accelerate the transition towards renewable and circular business.
Where you fit in:
Within the Business Unit Avantium Renewable Polymers (ARNP) we are working on the commercialization of Avantium’s proprietary YXY plants-to-polymers Technology. This technology catalytically converts plant-based feedstock into FDCA (furandicarboxylic acid) and to materials such as the new material PEF (polyethylene furanoate). PEF enables the circular economy in fast moving consumers goods (FMCG) in packaging and apparel by combining 100% renewable and 100% recyclable with superior performance properties (barrier, mechanical and thermal) compared to today’s widely used linear petroleum-based materials.
Avantium Renewable Polymers will complete the construction of its Flagship Plant in 2024, producing 5kta of FDCA/PEF with the aim to demonstrate the technology and market at scale. As a technology developer, Avantium’s business model is to sell licenses of the YXY Technology, which should lead to FDCA/PEF factories globally, operating at large scale (>100 kta) at affordable prices. To develop the market, ARNP works together with its licensees and further leading companies in several industries (food & beverage, cosmetics, apparel, etc.). Join us and our partners in the transition to a fossil-free world, transforming their sustainability pledges in actionable proof points!
As Director Sustainable Public Affairs - Policies, you will join the Commercial Team of Avantium Renewable Polymers. Being at the forefront of sustainable innovation you will join an international and dynamic team headquartered in Amsterdam. The Director Sustainable Public Affairs - Policies will work closely with the Director Sustainable Public Affairs – ESG. Where your main focus is on policy development and the focus on the Director ESG on sustainability topics.
What will you do?
The aim of the Director Sustainable Public Affairs - Policies role is to ensure that Avantium’s interests are well represented in relevant policies both in the European legislation as well as specific country legislation. There is a global scope but with a high focus on Europea. With the Director Sustainable Public Affairs – Policies you lead the development of Avantium’s global Public Affairs and Advocacy strategy. You build relevant networks and relationships with policy makers, industry allies, clients and other stakeholders in the value chain.
Key responsibilities:
- Together with the Director Public Affairs, lead the development and implementation of the sustainable public affairs strategy and action plan.
- Ensure Avantium’s interests are represented in relevant policy documents in both Brussels and member state legislation.
- Build relevant network with relevant policy makers both in Brussels and other EU member states.
- Build strategic alliances with like minded industry players, clients and other stakeholders in the value chain.
- Manage Avantium’s involvement in relevant industry associations.
- Roling out the FDCA and PEF concepts with relevant stakeholders.
What do you bring?
To be successful in this role, the Director Sustainable Public Affairs needs to be an expert in the field of policy development within the European Parliament and preferably also in the Dutch and other governments. You have a well established network in Brussels, the Hague and possibly other member states and you feel comfortable speaking in front of larger groups.
We are looking for a Director Sustainable Public Affairs with the following background:
- Master or Bachelor degree in Governmental Affairs, Business, Commercial, Marketing, Economical or broad Technical area (E.g. Industrial Engineering and Management, Energy and Environmental sciences, Product design, Economics, Marketing).
- 10+ years of work experience in Public Affairs, preferably in the Chemicals, Plastics or Packaging industry.
- 10+ year of experience in policy development in Brussels and/or The Hague.
- Preferred: Familiar to operate in a technology driven industry, comfortable in intellectual property discussions and legal negotiations.
- Excellent communication skills (both oral and written)
- Experience in circular concepts, recycling and sustainability is advantageous.
- Personal skills: Team worker but also able to work relatively independently, enthusiastic, high energy, critical, self-starter and strong persuasion skills.
- Languages: Our company language is English. Being able to speak additional languages (preferably Dutch) is desirable.
- Willingness to travel on a regular basis (mainly but not exclusively Europe).
- We have a hybrid working culture, enabling the benefits of working from home while fostering an inspirational working environment. Avantium employees work on average 3 days per week at the office when not on business trips.
What do we offer?
Avantium is a small company with a big impact. Whilst contributing to a circular economy, we offer you a unique chance to learn a lot: in science, business and management, leading people and operations, market strategies, quality and last but not least safety. Learning paths can be steep, not depending on predefined career paths and development tracks. You are in the lead of your career, what you bring to the table will be noticed and taking initiative is rewarded and recognized. We have an informal result-oriented culture, a flat organization and we recognize and celebrate the many cultures that we represent. On top of that we offer good primary and secondary benefits.
Interested?
Let us know by applying through the website. If you have any questions, you can reach our Corporate Recruiter Kylie Hoffman at kylie.hoffman@avantium.com.
