Corporate Affairs Director

Position Summary

We are looking for an experienced and strategic Corporate Affairs Director to lead our public policy and regulatory engagement efforts in the US and Canada at federal and state levels. This role will be pivotal in shaping legislation and policies that impact our business by fostering strong relationships with trade associations, policymakers and government institutions. 

Reporting to the Vice President, Global Corporate Affairs, the Director will collaborate closely with internal teams, industry associations, and external partners to ensure our company’s interests are effectively represented in the North American legislative landscape. 

Job Description

1.    Advocacy and Representation:
            o    Engage with government institutions, state and federal representatives, and key stakeholders to advocate for company policy positions.
            o    Develop and execute advocacy strategies aligned with business objectives in food and protective packaging.
            o    Provide policy insights and recommendations in meetings with policymakers, government agencies, industry trade associations, and NGOs.
            o    Represent the company on board or committee assignments within trade associations.
2.    Stakeholder Management:
            o    Build and maintain relationships with key policymakers, regulators, and industry influencers at national and state levels.
            o    Collaborate across internal teams—including legal, regulatory, finance, and business units—to align policy objectives with business priorities.
            o    Coordinate policy outreach initiatives with business partners, government affairs teams, and external consultants. 
3.    Policy Monitoring & Analysis:
            o    Track, analyze, and report on legislative and regulatory developments that may impact the company.
            o    Identify potential risks and opportunities related to public policy changes.
            o    Provide strategic recommendations on emerging policies and regulatory frameworks.
4.    Internal Communication and Reporting:
            o    Provide regular updates and strategic briefings to senior management and key business functions.
            o    Work cross-functionally to ensure policy issues are understood and integrated into business planning.
            o    Prepare policy analyses, position papers, and presentations on key public policy issues.
5.    Industry Engagement:
            o    Represent the company at conferences, workshops, industry events, and industry meetings to engage with policymakers and stakeholders.

Qualifications

            •    Bachelor’s degree required; advanced degree in technical, law or policy field preferred.
            •    10+ years of experience, with at least 5 years in government affairs, public policy, regulatory affairs, sales, account management or sustainability roles.
            •    Strong understanding of US federal and state legislative processes and regulatory frameworks, particularly in packaging.
            •    Established network of contacts within trade associations, legislative bodies, or regulatory organizations.
            •    Expertise in extended producer responsibility (EPR), sustainability, environmental regulations and their impact on packaging. 
            •    Broad knowledge of sustainability issues related to packaging, including recycled content, recyclability, and food contact legislation.
            •    Exceptional communication, networking and influencing skills, with the ability to translate complex policy issues into actionable business strategies. 
            •    Ability to work independently and cross-functionally in a fast-paced, dynamic environment, managing multiple priorities.
            •    Proactive, strategic mindset with a strong sense of initiative and accountability.
            •    Location: Charlotte, NC -- minimum two days a week in the corporate office preferred. 
            •    Willingness to travel up to 40% of the time.
            •    Valid driver’s license required.