Director of Communications ECPA

European Crop Protection Association

Brussels, Belgium

The European Crop Protection Association ( ECPA) is the pan-European voice of the pesticide industry. This Brussels-based association, representing 20 market-leading companies as well as national associations in 32 countries, is looking for a results-oriented strategic communicator as Director of Communications.

ECPA is looking to recruit a first class Director of Communications who will set, guide and implement communications strategies across channels and programmes, ensuring that the crop protection industry is recognised as a valuable partner in sustainable agriculture, represent ECPA in relevant fora and particularly represent ECPA as spokesperson towards the media.

Responsibilities:

• Develop and implement communications strategies to generate support for a fact-based discussion about the benefits of crop protection among the industry’s key stakeholders, including at public meetings and events, whilst demonstrating an ability to understand, listen and respond to public concerns;
• Build and implement communication programs to drive the operational success of the association’s sustainable agriculture projects, in the areas of water, biodiversity, food and health;
• Act as spokesperson for the crop protection industry in public forums;
• Manage a strong communications team;
• Advise the Director General on all strategic communications’ issues involving the sector;
• Maintain active relations with the media in Brussels and across the European Union;
• Build relations and work with stakeholder peers Qualifications ECPA is seeking an accomplished Director of Communications with leadership experience.

The successful candidate should have:

• At least 5 years’ experience at a similar level;
• Strong consensus building skills to drive highest level objectives in a challenging environment;
• Experienced, convincing and passionate speaker in English – abilities in German and French would be an asset;
• Effective media networker Track record as an implementer able to manage a variety of projects concurrently, able to manage external agencies and ensure deliveries;
• Knowledge of the EU institutions;
• Knowledge of health issues, European agricultural or environmental policy would be an asset;
• Good writing skills in English The ideal candidate is an excellent communicator, a self-starter as well as a team player, and both flexible and service minded.

In return, ECPA offers:

• A competitive remuneration package according to work experience;
• A rewarding and challenging work environment.

How to apply:

Please send your letter of motivation and curriculum vitae by February 8th 2013 to: Sarah Giles, Senior Manager Corporate Operations, ECPA - sarah.giles@ecpa.eu. Email subject: “Application: Communication Director vacancy”.