EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR:

Reporting to: Managing Partner.

THE ROLE:

The Executive Director will be the principal representative of the Association, responsible for articulating the industry's interests, addressing trade and regulatory challenges, and building strong institutional relationships with Government.

This is a senior role requiring credibility, Government connect, influence, diplomacy and the ability to drive outcomes through stakeholder engagement.

KEY MANDATE:

Government & Policy Engagement:

- Lead the Association's engagement with relevant Ministries, Government departments, regulators and statutory authorities.

- Build and maintain trusted relationships with senior Government officials and policymakers.

- Represent the Association in Government consultations, committees and industry forums.

- Advise the President and Governing Council on policy, regulatory and Government-related matters.

Trade & Regulatory Advocacy:

- Identify and prioritise critical trade, regulatory and policy issues affecting members.

- Lead representations and discussions with Government to seek practical solutions.

- Follow through on important issues across the relevant Government channels.

- Monitor emerging policy and regulatory developments and assess their impact on the industry.

Association Leadership:

- Create alignment among members around common industry priorities.

- Serve as the executive face of the Association and strengthen its institutional credibility.

- Lead key member meetings, Government interactions and stakeholder consultations.

- Build relationships with other industry associations, chambers and relevant institutions.

CANDIDATE PROFILE:

The ideal candidate will be a highly credible senior leader with deep understanding of Government and strong institutional relationships.

Relevant Background:

The Association is open to candidates from the following backgrounds:

- Retired senior IAS officers, particularly those who have served at Secretary, Additional Secretary, Joint Secretary, Principal Secretary or equivalent levels.

- Former senior Government or regulatory officials with significant industry and policy exposure.

- Senior industry leaders with extensive experience in Government Affairs, Public Policy, Regulatory Affairs, Trade or Institutional Relations.

Experience in Commerce, Industry, Food, Agriculture, Consumer Affairs, Finance, Revenue, Trade or related sectors would be particularly relevant.

Experience & Capabilities:

- 20+ years of senior professional experience.

- Strong understanding of Government processes and policy-making.

- Established relationships with senior Government stakeholders.

- Demonstrated ability to influence and navigate complex institutional environments.

- Experience representing an organisation, industry or institution before Government.

- Strong communication, negotiation and stakeholder-management capabilities.

THE IDEAL APPOINTMENT:

A distinguished retired IAS officer or equivalent senior Government leader with strong Government relationships and relevant policy or trade exposure would be an ideal fit.

The Association will also consider senior industry leaders with exceptional Government connect and a proven track record in Government Affairs, Public Policy, Regulatory Affairs or Trade Advocacy.

The individual should bring stature, access, judgement, diplomacy and the ability to get things done.