Manager Public Affairs

Albert Heijn; Zaandam; On-site; EUR 60,000 - 90,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Attractive bonuses

First-rate pension plan

20 vacation days plus optional 12.5

Travel expenses or NS travel card

Laptop and smartphone

Job summary

A major food retail group in Zaandam is looking for a Manager Public Affairs to navigate the intersection of politics, society, and business. The successful candidate will need over five years of public affairs experience and a strong political network. Responsibilities include advising on public affairs strategy, monitoring key developments, and representing the firm in discussions, all aimed at driving meaningful change and ensuring compliance with regulations. The position offers flexible working hours and growth opportunities.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of experience in Public Affairs, preferably in the Dutch Parliament or government.
• Strong network within politics and key stakeholder organizations.
• Experience in lobbying and policy influencing at national and EU levels.

Responsibilities

• Advise on public affairs related to government and politics.
• Support and execute Public Affairs strategy.
• Engage with stakeholders and maintain key relationships.
• Represent organization in policy discussions.

Skills

Public Affairs experience

Networking in politics

Lobbying and policy influencing

Strategic thinking

Communication skills (English and Dutch)

Job description

How you can make a difference

In this role as Manager Public Affairs, you will operate at the intersection of politics, society, and business, ensuring Ahold Delhaize’s voice is heard in key policy discussions.

About Ahold Delhaize

We’re Ahold Delhaize, one of the world’s largest food retail groups and a leader in both supermarkets and e-commerce. We offer a highly dynamic, international work environment in which our associates thrive.

Your new work environment

As Manager Public Affairs, you will be part of the Public Affairs team, working with specialists in regulatory affairs, sustainability, and communications to position Ahold Delhaize among key policymakers and industry associations. You will monitor and respond to political, societal, and regulatory developments—both short‑ and long‑term—that impact our business.

With increasing regulatory pressure, you will analyze policy changes, assess their impact, and help shape Ahold Delhaize’s position. You will support public affairs strategies that align with business objectives, engaging with government bodies and industry associations to represent our interests in key discussions. Important topics for Ahold Delhaize include, for example, affordable and healthy groceries, as well as issues related to a good business climate.

In this role, you will report to Marlijn Winkelman, VP Public Affairs.

Key responsibilities

You will advise Ahold Delhaize on public affairs related to government, politics, regulators, and broader stakeholder management.

Public Affairs strategy

• Support and execute Ahold Delhaize’s Public Affairs (PA) strategy.

Position development

• You not only identify relevant political, societal and regulatory developments, but also take the initiative to develop and communicate Ahold Delhaize’s positions and strategies.
• Analyze policies and legislation; develop PA strategies.
• Draft and create position papers and letters for politicians and other stakeholders.

Proactive monitoring & engagement

• Monitor political and societal developments affecting Ahold Delhaize’s strategy and reputation.

Policy representation

• Represent Ahold Delhaize in policy discussions in the Netherlands.

Stakeholder management

• Provide strategic policy advice to senior leadership.
• Engage stakeholders internally and externally, keeping board members informed on public affairs strategies.
• Maintain strong relationships with key Dutch stakeholders.
• Organize meetings and working visits for politicians, government officials or other stakeholders.
• Position Ahold Delhaize as a trusted and influential partner internally and externally.

What’s in it for you?

We offer plenty of growth opportunities and various cross‑brand career options; flexible working hours; a hybrid working model (we ask you to spend at least 50% of your working time at the office); and the chance to drive meaningful change on a global scale. You can look forward to a good work‑life balance, and the chance to work in an inclusive environment that wholeheartedly encourages growth and welcomes you just the way you are.

• Attractive bonuses
• A first‑rate pension plan
• 20 vacation days and the option to buy an additional 12,5 days from your personal ‘flex budget’)
• Travel expenses or an NS travel card
• A laptop and smartphone

"At Ahold Delhaize, you have the opportunity to make a real impact. We operate in a dynamic landscape, constantly balancing the interests of our brands, customers, and society. This role is strategic, fast‑paced, and highly relevant in today’s world."

Requirements

We think you’ll be best geared for success if you meet the following requirements:

Professional experience

• At least 5 years of experience in Public Affairs, in the Dutch Parliament or within the government.
• A strong network within politics, government, and key stakeholder organizations.
• Experience in lobbying and policy influencing at both (inter)national and EU levels.
• Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, in English and Dutch.
• Strong strategic thinking with the ability to translate complex policy issues into clear messages and actionable steps.

Additionally, we value a proactive, entrepreneurial, and results‑driven mindset. You are skilled in balancing different interests and excel at building relationships across various levels.