Advisor Public Affairs

Our world needs solutions, and we need them fast. A growing population and increasing standards of living drive our energy and material consumption. In order to keep global warming at bay, we need to reduce our carbon footprint substantially, in fact transition towards a climate neutral economy.

Avantium’s Vision: “We believe in a fossil-free world, let’s go!”

We create disruptive technologies to facilitate the sustainability change and bring them to the world with partners to accelerate the transition towards renewable and circular business.

Where you fit in: 

The Business Unit Avantium Renewable Polymers is working on the commercialization of Avantium’s proprietary YXY plants-to-polymers Technology. This technology catalytically converts plant-based feedstock into FDCA (furandicarboxylic acid) and to materials such as the new material PEF (polyethylene furanoate). PEF enables the circular economy in fast moving consumers goods (FMCG) in packaging and apparel by combining 100% renewable and 100% recyclable with superior performance properties (barrier, mechanical and thermal) compared to today’s widely used linear petroleum-based materials.

Avantium Renewable Polymers is currently commissioning its Flagship Plant in Delfzijl, which will be producing 5kta of FDCA/PEF with the aim to demonstrate the technology and market at scale. As a technology developer, Avantium’s business model is to sell licenses of the YXY Technology, which should lead to FDCA/PEF factories globally, operating at large scale (>100 kta) at affordable prices. To develop the market, ARNP works together with its licensees and further leading companies in several industries (food & beverage, cosmetics, apparel, etc.). Join us and our partners in the transition to a fossil-free world, transforming their sustainability pledges in actionable proof points!

As Advisor Public Affairs, you will join the Commercial Team of Avantium Renewable Polymers. Being at the forefront of sustainable innovation you will join an international and dynamic team headquartered in Amsterdam. The Advisor Public Affairs will work closely with the Director Public Affairs & Sustainability, with your main focus on policy development in Europe and EU member states.

What will you do? 

The Advisor Public Affairs is responsible for ensuring that Avantium's interests are effectively represented within relevant European and national policy frameworks. This position requires ongoing monitoring of political and societal developments and, in collaboration with the Director Public Affairs & Sustainability, contributing to the development of the Public Affairs and Advocacy strategy. You build relevant networks and relationships with policy makers, industry allies, clients and other stakeholders in the value chain. You will get the unique opportunity to enhance Avantium’s presence in Brussel and actively contribute to an enabling policy climate for sustainable technologies.

Key responsibilities:

• Contribute to the development of Avantium’s public affairs strategy and advocacy.
• Ensure Avantium’s interests are represented in relevant policy documents in both Brussels and member state legislation, influence key policy areas relevant to the bio-based sector.
• Identify and build a strong network with relevant policy makers both in Brussels and other EU member states.
• Monitor and analyse political and societal developments relevant for Avantium.
• Develop position papers, policy briefs and other communication material to support Avantium’s advocacy efforts.
• Contribute to public consultations on policies affecting Avantium.
• Build strategic alliances with like minded industry players, clients and other stakeholders in the value chain.
• Represent Avantium in relevant industry associations, external meetings, working groups and events.

What do you bring? 

To be successful in this role, the Advisor Public Affairs needs to have a few years of experience in the field of policy development within the EU and preferably also in the Dutch government. You have a well established network in Brussels, the Hague and possibly other member states and you feel comfortable speaking in front of larger groups. You want to be part of a sustainable company and excited to make an impact

We are looking for a Advisor Public Affairs with the following background:

• Master or Bachelor degree in Governmental Affairs, Political science, Law, Business, Commercial, Economical, European studies or a related field.
• Minimum of 3 years work experience in Public Affairs, preferably in the Chemicals, Plastics or Packaging industry.
• Minimum of 3 years of experience in policy development, preferably in Brussels and/or The Hague.
• Excellent communication skills (both oral and written)
• Understanding of, and interest in, the circular economy, plastics, packaging, recycling and sustainability is advantageous.
• Personal skills: Team worker but also able to work relatively independently, enthusiastic, high energy, critical, self-starter and strong persuasion skills.
• Languages: Our company language is English. Being able to speak additional languages (preferably Dutch) is desirable.

What do we offer?

Avantium will provide an Employer of Record-contract (via DEEL). Our headquarter is located in Amsterdam and have plants in Delfzijl (Flagship Plant) and Geleen (Pilot Plant). We have a hybrid working culture, enabling the benefits of working from home while fostering an inspirational working environment. Being based in Brussel, we expect that you will visit our headquarters in Amsterdam approximately 1 week per month to stay up to date and connected with the Commercial Team and company. In Brussel we expect you to be networking and have your office from home.

Avantium is a small company with a big impact. Whilst contributing to a circular economy, we offer you a unique chance to learn a lot: in science, business and management, leading people and operations, market strategies, quality and last but not least safety. Learning paths can be steep, not depending on predefined career paths and development tracks. You are in the lead of your career, what you bring to the table will be noticed and taking initiative is rewarded and recognized. We have an informal result-oriented culture, a flat organization and we recognize and celebrate the many cultures that we represent. On top of that we offer good primary and secondary benefits. 

Interested?

Let us know by applying through the website. If you have any questions, you can reach our HR Business Partner at Sil.Bartlema@avantium.com.