Company description

As the first and only trade association representing the nation’s leading plant-based food companies, PBFA works to build a strong foundation for the plant-based foods industry to succeed and thrive. Ensuring a bright future for the planet and all its inhabitants will require a transformative shift to a plant-based food system. Our strategic plan lays out how we’re going to get there.

Job description

The Plant Based Foods Association (PBFA) is the first and only trade association in the U.S. representing the nation’s leading plant-based foods companies. PBFA’s mission is to champion, strengthen, and elevate our members and the plant-based foods industry. Our sister organization, Plant Based Foods Institute (PBFI) works to create a plant-based food system that benefits people, the planet, and animals.

By serving members’ interests through the Plant Based Foods Association, and by identifying and disseminating impactful solutions through the Plant Based Foods Institute, we empower the plant-based foods industry to drive food system transformation. The two organizations convene and collaborate with our membership, partners, and stakeholder groups to increase the availability and accessibility of plant-based foods, and promote a transition in agricultural practices.

SUMMARY

The Policy Associate will conduct policy and legal research, analysis, and advocacy to advance the interest of our members and the plant-based foods industry in alignment with PBFA’s mission. In particular, the Policy Associate will assist in shaping and executing strategies to protect and increase clarity around the use of plant-based terminology, and build PBFA members’ capacity to advocate for food policies that support a transition to plant-based food systems at local, state, and federal levels. Reporting to the Senior Director of Policy, the Policy Associate will advance policy initiatives through a collaborative process with PBFA’s policy team.

COMPETENCIES

The Policy Associate must demonstrate excellent oral and written communication skills, strategic and analytical thinking, and teamwork. The position requires a strong grounding in food systems and U.S. food laws and policies.

The Policy Associate is a detail-oriented team player who is able to work well independently, manage multiple projects simultaneously, and meet deadlines. Exceptional attention to detail, project management, and presentation skills are required. An appreciation for plant-based foods is a plus.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES

• Draft documents, including persuasive letters, policy briefs, fact sheets, legislative language, rulemaking comments and petitions, and op-eds to support PBFA’s state and federal policy priorities.
• Draft submissions to regulators and analyze regulatory proposals.
• Meet with USDA and FDA staff on nutritional, agricultural, and public health policy.
• Ensure that PBFA is poised to respond quickly and effectively to state bills by tracking state legislation and developing advocacy strategies.
• Develop and maintain relationships with state elected officials, lobbyists, and allied organizations to influence the outcome of state legislation.
• Facilitate outreach to PBFA member companies to identify and synthesize policy barriers and solutions.
• Assist in developing and conducting advocacy training for PBFA member companies.
• Cultivate relationships with other nonprofit organizations, including those focused on environmental sustainability, public health, and food justice, to build alliances and support for policies that promote plant-based foods.
• Speak publicly on the benefits and regulation of plant-based foods.
• Assist in the production of communications materials, write for PBFA’s blog, and assist with social media.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

EXPERIENCE & SKILLS

• Knowledge and familiarity with U.S. food regulations, agriculture and nutrition policy, and the legislative and administrative policy processes.
• A J.D., or postgraduate degree in Public Administration, Public Policy, Public Affairs, or Political Science.
• A minimum of 3 years experience working for a federal agency, or other administrative law, Hill/lobbying, public health, or agricultural policy experience.
• Excellent written and verbal communications skills, and the ability to convey information on complex issues both verbally and in writing using data and reasoning, and possess the ability to speak in formal and informal settings.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively.

• Ability to perform well under pressure, be able to manage competing demands, be proactive, show resourcefulness, and adapt well to changing circumstances.

Additional details

This is a full-time position. Must be able and willing to work remotely.

Salary: $70,000-$80,000 depending on experience; benefits include healthcare, retirement, plus PTO.

PBFA is actively committed to creating a diverse environment, and culture of inclusion where all team members feel valued and can contribute their experiences and perspectives. As an Equal Opportunity Employer, PBFA does not discriminate on the basis of race, ethnicity, religion, creed, gender, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, marital status, pregnancy, gender expression or identity, sexual orientation, citizenship, or any other legally protected class. For more info about PBFA, visit plantbasedfoods.org.

Applications will be reviewed beginning December 2021. Interviews will be scheduled on a rolling basis.

Compensation

this position is: salaried, $75,000 - $100,000

Location

job can be done remotely

Application instructions

Deadline

no deadline