Head of Public Affairs and Regulatory Strategy, China

Are you an experienced policy and public affairs professional, motivated by seeing the impact of your work play out? You're possibly in a large organisation with a mature regulatory and advocacy strategy, but maybe you're feeling ready for the next step; confident of your ability to create more impact and change in a growing sustainable industry?

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Perhaps you're also looking to be a part of a business in the early stages of their ambitious journey, but one that puts people and sustainability at the core of what they do with a unique technology that will positively change the packaging and plastics industry as we know it?

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If this sounds like you, then we have the perfect role for you.

Our client is a forward-thinking organisation at the forefront of sustainable materials innovation. Their breakthrough biodegradable plastic technology is set to revolutionise the industry and the environment. This pivotal position involves collaborating with a broad spectrum of stakeholders, including central and local government bodies, influential industry players, and academic leaders to shape regulatory frameworks, playing a crucial role in forging alliances and navigating the intricacies of environmental policies and standards.

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The ideal candidate will possess a comprehensive understanding of policy dynamics related to environmental sustainability, with a focus on materials and packaging. You will be the architect of strategies that navigate complex regulations and promote ecological advancements.

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You will be:

• Working directly and through strategic partners, building influence with key governmental & industry stakeholders across the region to develop an understanding of the technology and appreciation for how it can supplement the current circular economy, plastics and packaging policies

• Develop support in key provinces through implementing strategic products leveraging innovation portfolio to demonstrate the technology in action and build support bottom up for its relevance, impact and application.

• Work closely with commercial partners utilising the Corporate Affairs teams to align and drive agendas.

• Develop relationships with industry bodies, NGOs and other influential third parties.

• Utilising scientific test methods, championing the role of standards in supporting China's efforts to set a credible pathway for biodegradation

• Creative thinking about design & execution of non-traditional policy campaigns.

• A leading expert on the China regulatory landscape and a go-to source of expertise for policymakers.

• Manage any 3rd party support, such as public affairs and PR agencies.

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To be successful in this role, you will have:

• Evident experience of shaping China regulation that affects the commercial success of a business or an industry.

• Experience working in a blue-chip organisation in a sector with a strategic interest in plastics, e.g. FMCG, Pharma, Retail or similar, with an awareness of the key drivers and trends of the polymer sector.

• Broad understanding of the environment and sustainability agenda, including familiarity with circular economy policies and regulations.

• A track record of building meaningful relationships with senior stakeholders in China to shape a regulatory landscape, e.g. policymakers, standards bodies, industry associations, corporate partners, NGOs etc.

• A national operator across key provinces/cities with experience of shaping policy and building influence in local governments.

• Previous experience of working with a technical product would be desirable.

• Excellent written and oral communications in Mandarin & English.

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Does this sound like you? If so, please apply directly or get in touch with Jess Choo at jess.choo@acre.com for more details.