Corporate Affairs Lead

SUMMARY:
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POSITION INFO:

Introduction

A well established FMCG company is looking for a Corporate Affairs Lead The individual in this role is tasked with evaluating the operational landscape within South Africa. This involves forecasting changes in the environment that may pose commercial risks or present competitive opportunities for the company. They are also responsible for devising and executing strategies and initiatives to mitigate risks and capitalize on competitive advantages. This requires developing a deep understanding of the company's business operations, commercial strategies, and programs, as well as gaining insight into the social, economic, political, and regulatory context in which the company operates. Additionally, they must familiarize themselves with the various interest groups, organizations, and media outlets that influence public opinion in the region. Furthermore, they play a crucial role in managing the internal and external perception of the company's image among employees and the public, and are actively involved in corporate-level negotiations, government relations, and communication with external stakeholders, both governmental and non-governmental.

Duties & Responsibilities

• Anticipate and assess changes to the company’s Operating Environment which create commercial risk and competitive opportunity. Ensure anticipated changes are communicated to the General Manager, local market Excom, and Regional CA&C Lead.
• Develop, or collaborate with the Market Excom and functional counterparts to design and implement effective strategies and programs to shape the Operating Environment by counterbalancing issues that could negatively impact the business. Aim to minimize commercial risk, secure competitive advantage, and uphold operating freedoms in South Africa.
• Direct the development of political, regulatory, and media maps identifying influential groups or individuals shaping public and government policy and opinion in South Africa and relevant markets. Cultivate effective relationships with these stakeholders and maintain a solid stakeholder map (national and supra-national). Actively engage in industry associations and other relevant bodies.
• Develop, or collaborate with functional counterparts (local, regional, and HQ), to formulate positions and views on public issues significantly impacting the company’s operating environment. Develop engagement strategies ensuring fair and accurate representation of the company’s positions and views.
• Recruit, train, motivate, and retain top-tier Corporate Affairs talent to achieve Corporate Affairs mission and objectives for South Africa+ with the highest quality standards, aligned with the Company Code of Conduct and Operating Guidelines.
• Establish clear performance criteria and objectives for all Public Relations consultants and service providers in the market. Ensure alignment of Public Relations strategies with the company’s business goals and regularly assess program performance against criteria and objectives.
• Develop, coordinate, and implement community investment programs in South Africa in accordance with company guidelines.
• Support the CA&C Regional Lead in deploying internal and external communication strategy for Company South Africa.

Additional Skills Required:

• Anticipate and shape changes in the operating environment creating commercial risk and competitive opportunity for the company in the South Africa cluster.
• Develop and implement strategies and programs, for the South Africa cluster and local markets, responsibly and proactively shaping the operating environment.
• Manage and monitor South Africa's regulatory environment and engage with local authorities in South Africa markets as necessary.
• Cultivate a comprehensive understanding of the social, economic, political, and regulatory environment in which the company operates, including special interest groups, organizations, and media shaping public opinion in the markets.

Desired Experience & Qualification

Educational Background:

• Bachelor's degree from a recognized university or equivalent.

• Work Experience:

• A minimum of 5 years of progressive experience in Corporate Affairs, focusing on managing regulatory, public affairs, and communications.
• At least 2 years of experience in a managerial position within the field.
• Strong understanding and application of labor relations and legislative requirements.
• Previous exposure to highly regulated industries such as tobacco, pharmaceuticals, or similar sectors is preferred.

• Languages & Computer Skills:

• Proficiency in English, both written and spoken. Knowledge of other languages is advantageous.
• Computer literacy, including proficiency in MS Office. Familiarity with SAP is an added advantage.
• Excellent communication skills, with the ability to convey complex information effectively.
• Proactive approach to problem-solving and decision-making.
• Exceptional organizational skills, with the ability to manage multiple tasks efficiently.
• Strong interpersonal skills, enabling effective collaboration with diverse teams and stakeholders.