Head of Public Affairs

About New ERA The New European Reuse Alliance (New ERA) is a non-profit business association representing organisations that develop, operate and promote reusable packaging across Europe. Our members cover the full reuse value chain, including manufacturing, logistics, washing, digital solutions and service provision, across multiple sectors such as HORECA, FMCG, e-commerce and transport packaging. Founded in 2022 and based in Brussels, New ERA advocates for ambitious, practical and economically viable EU policies that accelerate the transition from single-use packaging to well-designed reuse systems. Representing over 80 businesses and 8 sectoral and national reuse associations, New ERA focuses on three core objectives: Influence policy: advocate for policies that support competitive reuse and refill packaging systems. Strengthen the industry: contribute to the development of the reuse ecosystem with actionable insights, market intelligence, and clear guidelines. Foster collaboration: Build a platform for stakeholders to exchange knowledge and promote cross-border networking. Key themes at the heart of our work: Circular Economy, Reuse, Packaging, EU Public Affairs and Lobbying. Job description Position overview: As Head of Public Affairs, you will lead New ERA's EU advocacy strategy and represent the organisation in key policy processes shaping the future of reuse systems in Europe. You will be responsible for monitoring and influencing EU legislation, coordinating member advocacy, managing external representation and positioning New ERA as a credible and solution-oriented interlocutor for EU institutions and stakeholders. This is a strategic and hands-on role, combining policy expertise, political intelligence, stakeholder management and team coordination. You will report directly to the Director General. Main tasks: Strategy and policy leadership Co-define and implement New ERA's EU public affairs strategy Set priorities across legislative files in line with political relevance and organisational capacity Anticipate policy risks and opportunities affecting reuse systems and packaging policy EU policy monitoring and influence Monitor and influence key EU legislative and regulatory developments Contribute to the development of New ERA positions, briefings and advocacy messages Engage with EU institutions, Member States and stakeholders to promote New ERA's policy objectives Member coordination and collective advocacy Coordinate advocacy activities with New ERA members, in particular through the Advocacy Working Group Ensure structured information-sharing and alignment of positions Translate complex policy developments into clear and actionable insights for members Representation, stakeholder engagement and events Represent New ERA towards EU institutions, Member States, partner organisations and stakeholders Participate in relevant conferences, panels and expert meetings Initiate and organise advocacy-oriented events (roundtables, workshops, webinars) to support policy influence and visibility Profile Experience and background At least 3 to 5 years of relevant professional experience in EU public affairs or policy roles (EU institutions, industry associations, NGOs, consultancies or companies) Solid understanding of EU institutions and legislative processes Familiarity with circular economy policies, and ideally with the packaging, waste or related industrial sectors Skills and competencies Strong understanding of EU institutions and legislative decision-making Excellent analytical and drafting skills, with the ability to translate complex policy issues into clear messages Strong advocacy, negotiation and stakeholder management skills Ability to work autonomously while coordinating effectively within a small, dynamic team Strategic mindset combined with a hands-on approach Education and languages Master's degree in EU affairs, political science, law, environmental studies or related field Excellent command of English (written and spoken); additional EU languages are an asset Personal qualities Proactive, structured and politically astute Comfortable representing an organisation externally Strong sense of responsibility and diplomacy Motivated by impact and committed to accelerating the transition to reuse Job specifications Location: The position is based in Brussels, with occasional travel across Europe. Contract: Full-time (38 hours) permanent contract. Remote work: Flexible working arrangements, including the possibility of teleworking. Remuneration: Competitive salary, depending on profile and experience. Holidays: Standard legal holidays (20 days) plus 4 additional days off. Benefits: Meal vouchers provided. How to apply: If you are ready to take on this exciting challenge and possess the required skills, send us your CV and cover letter by January 11 to the following email address: info@newreusealliance.eu. The subject line of the email must read: "Head of Public Affairs - First name, Last name". Come join us to make reuse the norm Important notice: New ERA has recently been made aware of a fraudulent job posting circulating on an unaffiliated website. Please note that all legitimate job opportunities are advertised exclusively on New ERA's LinkedIn page, and applications should be submitted only to info@newreusealliance.eu.