Public Affairs Communication Lead AME

Syngenta Group; Pretoria; On-site; ZAR 40 000 - 80 000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking a dynamic Public Affairs and Communication Specialist to lead strategic initiatives in the AME region. This role is pivotal in shaping the Public Affairs strategy, managing stakeholder engagement, and enhancing internal and external communication. You will collaborate with diverse teams to drive the sustainability agenda while navigating complex political dynamics. If you are proactive, self-motivated, and possess strong communication skills, this opportunity offers a chance to make a significant impact in a forward-thinking organization committed to sustainable practices.

Qualifications

• Solid experience in Public Affairs and Communication roles.
• Ability to connect sustainability matters with public discourse.

Responsibilities

• Co-develop the AME Public Affairs strategy and Business Sustainability agenda.
• Manage internal and external communication and employee engagement.

Skills

Policy Shaping Strategies

Public Affairs Communication

Crisis Communication

Event Management

Negotiation Skills

Cultural Awareness

Education

Bachelor's Degree in Communication or Related Field

Master's Degree (Preferred)

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. The BS 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. This involves joint strategy development with the Business Sustainability & Regulatory Head and the Commercial Head, based on FTO challenges and the Company Sustainability agenda, and managing relationships with key stakeholders including government officials and partners. (70-80% of the role)
2. Managing internal and external communication and employee engagement. This includes providing clear guidance and steering for the AME Communication Specialists and coordinating external events for the BU. (20-30% of the role)

Accountabilities :

• Co-develop the AME Public Affairs strategy and Business Sustainability agenda with the AME BS & REG Head, including policy shaping in the Commercial Unit, and establish annual priorities for AME.
• Support the BS & REG Head in developing annual AME BS priorities that align with BU annual goals and add commercial value.
• Ensure internal and external visibility of BS plans and projects supporting commercial growth.
• Support stakeholder engagement activities, including meetings, visits, workshops, events, and trade/Ag exhibitions.
• Lead internal and external communications across all platforms, ensuring effective communication within and outside Syngenta, and provide guidance to the AME Communication Team.
• Act as the main contact for regional and global BS teams regarding communication and media engagement, and for cascading global projects in the AME BU.
• Develop processes and governance for PA/Communication issue management, policy, and media monitoring within the BU.
• Work closely with the Regional PA office in Brussels to gather relevant information to support AME PA plans aligned with FTO and BS strategies.
• Support industry engagement through CLAME by representing Syngenta in the CLAME Public Affairs Committee, organizing internal coordination, preparing briefs, and compiling them for internal stakeholders.
• Assist the BU Commercial Head and their direct reports in managing internal and external events, providing relevant briefs, setting up and tracking an annual events calendar, leveraging internal communicators for local support, and strengthening Syngenta's reputation.

Qualifications :

Knowledge, experience & capabilities

• Ability to develop impactful policy shaping strategies and communication plans.
• Ability to connect sustainability matters, Syngenta's sustainability agenda, and commercial ambitions with public discourse, turning them into compelling stories.
• Strong coordination and leadership skills in a matrixed and cross-cultural environment.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills, with a creative mindset.
• Event and project management skills are advantageous.
• Proactive, self-motivated, decisive, with a high level of crisis tolerance.
• Ability to communicate and interact effectively in diverse environments, with cultural awareness.
• Team player who enjoys collaboration with colleagues and line managers across functions.
• Excellent administrative skills, with attention to detail and the ability to maintain an overview.
• Strong management and advocacy skills.
• Decisive, analytical, and strategic thinking abilities.

Experience :

• Solid experience in PA and Communication roles.
• Experience in policy shaping and communication, with a good understanding of political dynamics in AME, especially related to agriculture, regulation, advocacy, and branding/reputation. Expertise in at least one of these areas is required.
• Experience in issues management, crisis communication, government relations, media relations, and social media is desirable.
• Experience in building and maintaining internal and external relationships across boundaries and cultures.

Capabilities :

• Strong communication, self-organization, problem-solving, negotiation, and influencing skills across cultures.
• Effective networking abilities to build and sustain internal and external relationships.
• Ability to work independently within a structured environment, closely aligned with the commercial organization.
• Multitasking skills, prioritization, and timely delivery of goals.
• Understanding of political, social, and cultural complexities in different countries.
• Good understanding of Syngenta's business or the ability to quickly develop this understanding.
• Excellent listening, onboarding, and impact reflection capabilities.

Additional Information :

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

Remote Work : Employment Type :

Key Skills