Application Deadline: 10 April 2026
Are you passionate about EU policymaking and advocacy? Do you have the skills to navigate the “Brussels Bubble” and drive impactful public affairs strategies? Join our team at Cefic as a Public Affairs Manager and play a key role in shaping policies that matter to the European chemical industry.
You will be part of Cefic’s Public Affairs team, supporting our Programme Councils and their priorities. This position is ideal for a proactive professional who can work autonomously and strategically, advising on political feasibility, designing advocacy strategies, and implementing them effectively.
Inspired? you will:
1. Develop and execute advocacy strategies aligned with Cefic’s priorities, particularly within the framework of the Political Guidelines for the European Commission 2024-2029, including the Clean Industrial Deal.
2. Monitor legislative and policy developments to assess their impact and propose aligned strategies.
3. Engage with EU policymakers (European Commission, Council of the EU, European Parliament) to ensure our industry’s voice is heard.
4. Collaborate with Cefic members, national federations, and industry networks to coordinate advocacy efforts.
5. Prepare briefings, position papers, and advocacy materials to support Cefic’s objectives.
6. Organise and participate in events, meetings, and public affairs initiatives to enhance Cefic’s outreach and influence.
Why Public Affairs?
At the core of Cefic sits Public Affairs (PA), a fully-integrated team of advocacy and communication professionals. We work on the big industry issues, support Cefic’s Sector Groups, and ensure the chemical industry speaks with one voice. Our work spans EU monitoring, PA campaigns, high-level events, digital presence, in-house video production, media monitoring and engagement, and so much more. Joining our team means leading initiatives, while also being supported.
Are you the right candidate?
The successful candidate will be a highly motivated and experienced professional who demonstrates the following experience and competencies:
7. Academic background: preferably MA or MSc in Toxicology, Chemistry/Biochemistry, Chemical Engineering or any other applied or political sciences.
8. A minimum 2 years’ experience working at European/international level on scientific and/or regulatory issues in the chemical industry, value chain or with associations similar to Cefic
9. Excellent project management skills
10. Strong advocacy skills and experience with EU regulatory framework and in particular with chemical legislation such as REACH.
11. Analytical thinker, at ease with scientific discussions.
12. Ability to write clear and concise texts translating communication from authorities into actions for the members.
13. Strong interpersonal skills and ability to negotiate and solve conflicts.
14. Motivated to represent the voice of industry and influence policy and guidance.
15. Full professional proficiency in English and at least one other European language; additional languages are a definite asset.
16. Team player who can work independently and take initiatives when needed in a multi-functional and multicultural team while demonstrating dedication and loyalty.
17. Curious mind and eagerness to learn and grow within the Specialty Chemicals Industry Sector.
18. Motivation to travel occasionally (up to 20%).
19. Prepared to live in Belgium
Required personal qualities
20. A good team player who is able to work as well independently as well as in a multi-functional and multicultural team.
21. Excellent writing skills.
22. Good project management and computer skills.
23. Pro-active with service and customer orientation
24. Prepared to live in Belgium (Brussels)