Head of Government Affairs

The Role

As the Head of Corporate Affairs (Government Affairs), you will develop and lead the public affairs and government relations strategy and annual work plans for East & Southern Africa. Your objective is to influence the policy environment and position Tetra Pak as a partner and solution provider on issues critical to business continuity and growth. You will focus on preventing punitive regulation and managing key areas such as environmental sustainability, circular economy (waste management, EPR, single-use plastics), food policy (food loss, sugar tax), fiscal policies (tariffs, duties), climate, and nature.

Key Responsibilities

• Strategy & Planning: Develop and lead public affairs and government relations strategy for East & Southern Africa.
• Policy Monitoring: Proactively monitor policy and regulatory developments at regional, national, and state levels; identify emerging trends, assess risks, and propose response strategies.
• Stakeholder Management: Build and maintain strong relationships with key policy stakeholders, industry peers, NGOs, and influencers.
• Representation: Ensure active representation in relevant industry associations and networks; organize strategic engagements for the Managing Director and senior leadership.
• Advocacy Campaigns: Lead advocacy campaigns and external positioning with government bodies and policy stakeholders.
• Capability Building: Strengthen internal capabilities related to regulatory affairs and public policy advocacy.
• Regional Oversight: Monitor the policy landscape across uncovered countries in the region and initiate escalation or engagement plans when required.
• Partner Management: Secure appropriate external support and manage external partners and consultancy firms.

Requirements

• Education: Bachelor’s degree required; an advanced degree in public policy, international affairs, political science, law, or related fields is preferred.
• Experience: At least 8 years of relevant experience in East & Southern Africa in public or corporate affairs roles within multinational companies, public affairs firms, international organizations, or industry associations.
• Industry Knowledge: Experience ideally within the food, beverage, or packaging sectors.
• Policy Expertise: Strong experience in sustainability, environment, food, and consumer health policy.
• Strategic Ability: Proven ability to lead advocacy campaigns and develop effective public affairs strategies that deliver results.
• Collaboration: Demonstrated ability to work cross-functionally with business leaders.

How to Apply

Interested and qualified candidates should apply via the Tetra Pak career portal. Follow the link provided in the application section.