Public Affairs Manager

European Chemical Industry Council

About the Organisation

European chemical industry is indispensable to modern life, producing the building blocks and high-tech materials on which modern societies are built. Our molecules and materials are used in every industry, from agriculture to construction, food and beverages, energy, health care and medicines, machinery, textiles, hospitals, and transportation. We deliver a range of solutions needed to deliver the EU Green Deal, from better batteries, solar panels, wind turbines, and smarter, more energy-efficient materials. Cefic supports the EU Green Deal and Europe’s ambition to become climate-neutral by 2050. Cefic’s Mid-Century Vision illustrates our views on pathways to a more sustainable future.

The European Union’s chemical sector employs 1.2 million highly qualified people directly in 28,000 companies. The chemical sector supports around 19 million jobs across all supply chains. It generates more than €540 billion a year in sales and €170 billion in European value added. Our industry has embraced corporate social responsibility, ethical behaviour, and the principles of Responsible Care.

About the role

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.

Responsibilities

• 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;
• Monitor legislative and policy developments to assess their impact and propose aligned strategies;
• Engage with EU policymakers (European Commission, Council of the EU, European Parliament) to ensure our industry’s voice is heard;
• Collaborate with Cefic members, national federations, and industry networks to coordinate advocacy efforts;
• Prepare briefings, position papers, and advocacy materials to support Cefic’s objectives;
• Organise and participate in events, meetings, and public affairs initiatives to enhance Cefic’s outreach and influence.

Skills, Competencies, Experience & Attributes

Experience, Skills & Competencies:

• Minimum of 3-5 years of proven successful experience in EU Public affairs
• Strong knowledge of EU decision-making processes (ordinary legislative procedure & comitology)
• Ability to navigate the Brussels policy landscape and provide strategic insights
• Experience working within or closely with the EU institutions is an asset
• Strong communication and advocacy skills, with the ability to translate complex policy issues into clear and compelling arguments and adjust messages to a specific targeted audience
• Excellent project management skills, with the ability to handle multiple priorities and deadlines
• Full professional proficiency in English (spoken and written); additional languages are a definite asset.

Required Personal Qualities:

• A good team player who is able to work as well independently as well as in a multi-functional and multicultural team.
• Excellent writing skills.
• Good project management and computer skills.
• Pro-active with service and customer orientation.
• Prepared to live in Belgium.

Compensation & Benefits

• Working in a people-oriented, international and dynamic culture at the centre of EU affairs;
• An environment with a positive attitude towards stress and mindful of work-life balance.
• Working on dynamic and challenging topics;
• Opportunities for employee development (training, coaching, mentorship);
• Permanent employment contract with a competitive salary, benefits and working conditions.

Working locations

• Brussels, Belgium

How to apply

• Please send your application with a full curriculum vitae and motivation letter by 10th April 2026 to Cefic: Jessica Bart-Williams, HR Manager, Rue Belliard 40, b15, 1040 Brussels E-mail address: [email protected]
• Please note that during the recruitment process, your application may be shared with internal departments and Cefic members.

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