Secretary General

Position description

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.

Application instructions

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