Policy Director

Policy Director

USIPA - US Industrial Pellet Association

Brussels, Belgium

The US Industrial Pellet Association (USIPA) is a Washington, D.C.-based trade association representing US producers of woody biomass and other actors in the supply chain. USIPA advocates for woody biomass as an essential climate solution to decarbonize hard-to-abate industries, heavy-duty transport, deliver negative emissions, and meet net-zero goals. Our mission is to promote sustainability and safety within the wood biomass industry and to support renewable energy policy development across our key markets in Europe and Asia.

We seek an experienced and entrepreneurial Policy Director who will work closely with our members and a broad team of consultants to advance policy initiatives, ensuring our industry remains competitive, sustainable, and compliant with regulatory requirements. The successful candidate’s expertise in policy development, government relations, and strategic thinking will be essential in driving the association's advocacy efforts and representing the interests of our members. This position will report directly to the Executive Director.

Responsibilities

• Identify, track, and analyze relevant legislative and regulatory issues in USIPA members’ key markets including, but not limited to the EU, Member States, and UK;
• Foster collaboration and engagement with USIPA members to develop industry positions and promote a unified voice and approach to policy issues;
• Provide strategic positioning and tactical support to policy campaigns, including drafting briefings, consultation responses, talking points, presentations, and other policy-related documents;
• Participate in meetings with civil servants and policymakers to educate them on critical issues and association positions;
• Build, maintain, and foster relationships in the policy community and industry to enhance USIPA’s reputation, expertise, access, and advocacy efforts;
• Inform and educate USIPA members about policy issues;
• Leading USIPA’s Sustainability Work Group;
• Collaborate with the association's VP of External Affairs and consultants to develop compelling messaging, educational materials, and public relations activities to raise awareness of the woody biomass industry and its benefits;
• Provide ongoing insight and thought partnership to achieve USIPA's strategic goals, including growing the association and maximizing value for its members;
• Assist the team in staying informed about the latest developments and trends in the woody biomass sector.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in public policy, political science, law, or a related field. Advanced degree preferred;
• Proven experience (6+ years) in policy analysis, government relations, or a related field, preferably within a trade association or industry-specific organization;
• Preferred understanding of EU and UK legislative and regulatory processes;
• A demonstrated ability to navigate complex policy environments;
• Excellent analytical, research, and strategic thinking skills;
• Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to effectively convey complex policy issues to diverse audiences;
• Proven track record of successful advocacy and relationship-building with policymakers and key stakeholders;
• Ability to work independently, manage multiple priorities, and deliver high-quality results within tight deadlines;
• Knowledge of the industrial pellet industry or related sectors (e.g., renewable energy, biomass) is highly desirable;
• Familiarity with sustainability, environmental, and energy policies is advantageous.

The ideal candidate will have excellent interpersonal skills with an ability to collaborate and build coalitions with culturally diverse stakeholders. As a self-starter, you have the ability to work and take decisions independently and have a commitment to constant learning.

Domestic and international travel, including the Southeastern US, EU, UK, and potentially Asia, will be required.

Competitive salary, flexible remote work, and other benefits are included in the compensation package.

Join our team as the Policy Director and play a pivotal role in shaping the policy landscape for the industrial pellet industry. Apply your expertise, passion, and strategic thinking to advance our association's objectives and drive the sustainable growth of our members.

To apply, please send your CV and cover letter outlining your interest to hq@theusipa.org.

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Belgium      Communication/Public Relations      Environment      Government and Associations      Manager and Executive      Policy and Regulation      Renewable Energy      5+ Years Experience      USIPA - US Industrial Pellet Association