Director, Industry Strategy & Engagement

Accountabilities: Develop and execute a global industry engagement strategy aligned with commercialization, strategic, and business objectives. Build and maintain trusted relationships with senior leaders across producer organizations, food companies, processors, retailers, industry associations, policymakers, NGOs, and other influential stakeholders. Expand organizational presence and influence with priority stakeholders and decision-makers throughout the protein value chain. Represent the organization at industry conferences, trade associations, advisory groups, executive forums, and other strategic events. Develop and manage engagement plans for priority organizations and stakeholders to advance strategic initiatives. Influence industry dialogue and strengthen stakeholder confidence in emerging technologies and their responsible application. Monitor industry trends, market dynamics, policy developments, competitive activity, and other external factors affecting strategic priorities. Identify emerging risks, stakeholder concerns, and market opportunities that could influence commercialization, market acceptance, or business strategy. Gather, synthesize, and translate stakeholder feedback and market intelligence into actionable recommendations for commercialization, communications, stewardship, and corporate strategy. Partner with internal commercial, communications, marketing, regulatory, scientific, and executive teams to coordinate stakeholder engagement and relationship management. Prepare executive briefings, stakeholder profiles, strategic updates, and recommendations that support informed decision-making. Strengthen industry leadership through speaking opportunities, strategic partnerships, thought leadership initiatives, and stakeholder education programs. Manage multiple priorities, stakeholders, and deadlines while maintaining accuracy, professionalism, and discretion. Requirements: Bachelor’s degree in Agriculture, Animal Science, Business, Communications, Public Affairs, Political Science, or a related discipline. 7–10 years of experience in stakeholder engagement, industry relations, public affairs, government affairs, strategic partnerships, corporate affairs, or a related function. Proven experience building and managing relationships with senior executives, industry associations, customers, policymakers, and other external stakeholders. Demonstrated ability to develop and execute engagement strategies that support commercial or organizational objectives. Experience representing an organization at industry conferences, trade associations, advisory boards, and executive-level forums. Strong understanding of agriculture, food production, animal health, biotechnology, life sciences, or related industries. Experience gathering and synthesizing stakeholder feedback, market intelligence, and industry trends into actionable business recommendations. Exceptional communication, presentation, influencing, and relationship-building skills. Strong project management and organizational capabilities, with the ability to manage multiple priorities and stakeholders simultaneously. Proven ability to collaborate cross-functionally with commercial, communications, marketing, regulatory, scientific, and executive leadership teams. Strong judgment and discretion when handling sensitive issues and complex stakeholder relationships. Ability to work autonomously while contributing effectively within diverse, cross-functional teams. Ability to travel domestically and internationally approximately 50% of the time. Advanced degree such as an MBA, Master’s, or PhD is preferred. Experience in animal agriculture, livestock production, genetics, food systems, biotechnology, or agricultural technology is preferred. Knowledge of gene editing, biotechnology, sustainability, animal health, or emerging agricultural innovations is an advantage. Established industry networks across agriculture, food production, protein production, government, trade associations, or related sectors are preferred. Benefits: Annual salary range of approximately $158,500–$195,000, depending on experience, location, education, training, and relevant skills. Fully remote position based in the United States. Approximately 50% domestic and international travel, providing extensive industry and stakeholder exposure. Health, dental, and vision insurance. Flexible Spending Account (FSA) and Health Savings Account (HSA) options. Short-term and long-term disability coverage. 401(k) retirement plan. Tuition reimbursement. Paid holidays. Earned time off (ETO). Opportunities for professional growth and career development. Opportunity to influence commercialization strategies, industry dialogue, and adoption of emerging technologies. Exposure to senior executives, global stakeholders, industry organizations, policymakers, and strategic partners.