External Affairs Manager

Department: Commercial Polyolefins
Location: Philadelphia
Travel Involved: 10% - 25%
Job Type: Hybrid 

Description:

The External Affairs Manager supports the development and implementation of the strategy for the relevant federal, state, and local governments and advocacy and regulatory efforts for Braskem America.  The position is responsible for working with Trade Associations and other external stakeholders to implement this strategy.  Ensures company compliance with all political and lobbying activities and assists in maintaining the highest ethical standards by aligning with legal and compliance functions. The External Affairs Manager is responsible for identifying and mapping potential legislative, political, and regulatory threats and opportunities and developing position statements and strategy to address identified issues.

Key Responsibilities Include:

• Develop and lead the relationship with Braskem America’s lobbying firm(s) to identify, develop, and manage strategic relationships with elected officials and regulatory agencies.
• Serve as Braskem America’s liaison to industry trade organizations.
• Continually evaluate Federal and State legislative and regulatory activity for impact to Braskem America and Braskem globally. Communicate any impact or changes in status to appropriate stakeholders.
• Analyze public policy (legislative and regulatory) and recommend and prepare appropriate positions aligned with the company’s business objectives.
• Proactively address Braskem America’s views with the appropriate associations and external stakeholders,
• Communicate with and educate internal teams (Commercial, Legal, Global Teams, Sr. Leadership Team) on public policy activity and impacts.
• Manage government relations activities including coordination of lobbying activities, managing inquiries and requests from elected officials and/or key interest groups,
• Establish and maintain successful relationships with policymakers, business/trade groups, community-based organizations, and other key stakeholders to enhance the company’s brand, visibility, and reputation.
• Support Braskem global policy development initiatives, e.g., Global Plastics Negotiations, COP, UNEP
• Ensure compliance with Public Agents Procedure and Trade Association Directive by working closely with Compliance.
• Identify market opportunities for Braskem that result from Public Policy.

Requirements:

• Strong business knowledge, preferably within the Petrochemical industry
• Exceptional writing, speaking, and presentation communication skills with the ability to craft messaging and deliver convincing advocacy positions.
• Capability to develop and foster networks to advocate and pursue Braskem’s interests.
• Understands business strategy & commercial drivers as well as specific regulations and impacts.
• Experience in leading and managing cross-functional teams internally and externally.
• Entrepreneurial drive with business focus/knowledge and interest.
• Must possess initiative, strong work ethic, good judgment, and professionalism.
• Build brand awareness and develop relationships with stakeholders through advocacy and participation in external events.
• Ability to comprehend complex legislative and regulatory issues and develop synopses specific to the audience’s interest.
• Strong strategic thinking and problem-solving abilities, with a track record of developing and executing successful external affairs strategies
• Ability to work effectively under pressure, handle multiple priorities, and meet deadlines

Preferred Education & Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in Business, Communications, Engineering, Public Policy, or Political Science
• Advanced degree preferred