Public Affairs & Communication Lead AME

Syngenta Crop Protection; Pretoria; On-site; ZAR 35 000 - 80 000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking a dynamic Public Affairs and Communication Specialist to drive the Business Sustainability agenda within the AME region. This role involves co-creating strategies, managing relationships with key stakeholders, and leading internal and external communications. The ideal candidate will possess strong communication skills, experience in policy shaping, and the ability to navigate complex political landscapes. Join a forward-thinking company where your contributions will significantly impact sustainability initiatives and commercial growth.

Qualifications

• Solid experience in Public Affairs and Communication.
• Strong communication skills and creativity are essential.
• Ability to work independently and in a team-oriented environment.

Responsibilities

• Co-develop the AME Public Affairs strategy and Business Sustainability agenda.
• Lead internal and external communications across platforms.
• Manage relationships with key stakeholders including government officials.

Skills

Policy Shaping Strategies

Communication Plans

Crisis Management

Event Management

Negotiation Skills

Networking Skills

Analytical Thinking

Job description

The Business Sustainability (BS) function plays a key role in coordinating the development and implementation of the Company & Regional Business Sustainability agenda in AME. It comprises Public Affairs, Internal & External Communication, Sustainable and Responsible Business, and Regulatory Affairs. The role, focusing on Public Affairs and Communication (internal and external), is responsible for:

1. Co-creating, coordinating, and implementing the AME Business Unit Public Affairs strategy under the guidance of the AME BS & REG Head, jointly with the Business Sustainability & Regulatory Head and the Commercial Head, based on FTO challenges & the Company Sustainability agenda, and managing relationships with key stakeholders including Government officials and partners. (70-80%)
2. Managing external and internal communication, and employee engagement by providing clear guidance and steering for the AME Communication Specialists and coordinating external events for the BU. (20-30%)

Accountabilities:

1. Co-develop the AME Public Affairs (PA) strategy and Business Sustainability agenda/annual priorities in collaboration with the AME BS & REG Head.
2. Support the development of annual AME BS priorities aligned with commercial value and growth.
3. Ensure visibility of BS plans/projects supporting commercial growth.
4. Support stakeholder engagement activities across the CU.
5. Lead internal and external communications across platforms, providing guidance to the AME Communication Team.
6. Act as the main contact for regional and global BS teams on communication and media engagement.
7. Develop processes and governance for PA/Communication issue management and media monitoring.
8. Collaborate with the Regional PA office in Brussels for relevant information to support PA plans.
9. Support industry engagement through CLAME, representing Syngenta in PA committees and coordinating internal and external communication efforts.
10. Assist the BU Commercial Head in event attendance and communication, managing an annual events calendar and leveraging communication networks.

Qualifications:

Knowledge, experience & capabilities include:

• Developing impactful policy shaping strategies and communication plans.
• Connecting sustainability and commercial ambitions with public discourse to craft compelling stories.
• Coordination and leadership in a matrixed, cross-cultural environment.
• Strong communication skills and creativity.
• Event and project management skills are advantageous.
• Proactive, decisive, with high crisis tolerance.
• Effective communication across diverse environments and cultural awareness.
• Team-oriented with good administrative skills.
• Strong management and advocacy skills.
• Decisive, analytical, and strategic thinking.

Experience:

• Solid experience in PA and Communication.
• Experience in policy shaping, understanding political dynamics in AME, agriculture, regulatory, advocacy, and branding.
• Experience in issues management, crisis communication, government relations, media relations, and social media.
• Proven ability to build and maintain relationships across boundaries and cultures.

Capabilities:

• Strong communication, self-organization, problem-solving, negotiation, and influencing skills across cultures.
• Networking skills for building internal and external relationships.
• Ability to work independently within a structured environment, closely aligned with the commercial organization.
• Multitasking, prioritization, and timely goal delivery.
• Understanding of political, social, and cultural complexities in various countries.
• Quick understanding of and familiarity with Syngenta’s business.
• Effective listening, onboarding, reflection, and impact assessment skills in collaboration.

Additional Information:

This position may be executed from any of our Business Areas within the AME CU.