Are you passionate about pets and their well-being? Do you have a proven track record in leading European associations? FEDIAF, the voice of the European pet food industry, is seeking a visionary Secretary General to lead our Brussels-based team into an exciting new era.

Role and Responsibilities

Strategic Leadership

Shape the Future of FEDIAF: Lead the FEDIAF team in developing and executing an impactful strategic and EU public affairs vision, anticipating industry and policy trends to create a thriving environment for the European Pet Food Industry.
Represent the Voice of the Industry: Serve as the spokesperson for FEDIAF, representing the organization at high-level meetings, actively advocating for the interests of the European Pet Food Industry.
Drive Effective Governance & Organizational Growth: Collaborate closely with the FEDIAF Executive Committee and Board to ensure effective decision-making, transparent governance, and the continued growth and evolution of FEDIAF.

Association Management

Inspire A High-Performing Secretariat Team: Cultivate a collaborative and results-oriented environment within the FEDIAF Secretariat, empowering your team to develop and excel.
Ensure Operations Excellence: Oversee the day-to-day operations of the association, ensuring HR management, efficient resource allocation, robust financial management, and effective member engagement.
Steward Financial & Legal Integrity: Ensure sound financial management and regulatory compliance, overseeing budgeting, financial controls, and adherence to all legal and statutory requirements.

Advocacy and External Relations

Elevate FEDIAF’s Profile: Lead the FEDIAF team in designing and executing impactful EU public affairs and outreach strategies to enhance FEDIAF’s visibility, reputation, and influence within the EU.
Position FEDIAF as a Thought Leader: Proactively cultivate positive media coverage and stakeholder perceptions, establishing FEDIAF as a thought leader in the European pet food industry and a key EU policy partner to related sectors.
Drive Strategic Alliances: Expand FEDIAF’s network and influence through strategic partnerships and collaborations with key stakeholders, including EU officials, other EU associations and sector organizations.

Member Management

Deliver Member Value: Develop and implement programs that provide tangible benefits to members, including valuable insights, publications, and networking opportunities.
Cultivate a Thriving Member Community: Foster open communication and two-way dialogue, ensuring members are informed, engaged, and their needs are met.
Empower Member Collaboration: Facilitate member participation in FEDIAF’s activities and governance, creating a strong, unified voice for the European Pet Food Industry.

Skills and Competencies

Strategic and team leadership expertise with proven ability to drive organizational development
Strong public affairs and advocacy skills, with demonstrated success in EU regulatory engagement
Excellent stakeholder management and consensus-building capabilities across diverse European groups
Superior communication abilities, including public speaking and media relations
Strong financial and compliance acumen
Digital fluency and innovation mindset
Native-level business English; French language proficiency desired

Personal Attributes

Engaging leader with strong analytical skills
Team player with a high level of integrity and stewardship mindset
Diplomat with political acumen and the ability to build consensus
Adaptable, solution-oriented, and resilient, comfortable operating in complex environments

Education and Experience

8+ years senior leadership experience in European membership organisations, or other relevant international sector organisations
Proven track record in managing international teams and operating in complex governance structures
Demonstrated success in EU public affairs and policy advocacy, preferably in the food/agriculture sector
Relevant degree in EU Relations, Business Administration, Law, or related technical area, or other relevant field; some qualification in business administration preferable

Questions?

This recruitment is managed by Novya, a Brussels-based platform supporting European impact-driven organizations. If you have any questions, please reach out to [email protected].