Director of Crop Biotechnology Policy

Join CropLife Australia as a Director of Crop Biotechnology Policy

• Exciting opportunity in the crop biotechnology sector.
• Dynamic role in a national peak industry organisation
• Canberra-based | Competitive salary (Approx. $150k total renumeration package, including superannuation)

The Organisation

CropLife Australia is the national peak industry organisation for Australia’s plant science sector (crop protection products and crop biotechnology innovations). CropLife leads efforts to ensure an independent science-based, efficient and effective regulatory environment that supports innovation and facilitates the nation’s farming and environmental land management sectors’ access to high-quality products from the plant science industry. The organisation also works to advance the responsible and effective use of industry products with world-leading industry stewardship programs and initiatives.

The Position

We are seeking to appoint a skilled, experienced and highly motivated professional to work effectively with member companies, government agencies, and sector stakeholders to develop and implement public policies, regulatory reform and programs on behalf of the crop biotechnology sector.

The Director of Crop Biotechnology Policy reports to CropLife’s Chief Executive Officer.

The key focus of the job is to provide high level strategic and policy advice and manage a wide variety of issues in respect of CropLife Australia’s work in the public policy and regulation of crop biotechnology.

Key Responsibilities

Analysis of critical issues, formulating policy solutions and/or issues management strategies, and developing effective delivery platforms;

Preparation of high-level submissions to parliamentary committees and governments, along with briefing materials for parliamentarians, ministerial advisers, and senior public servants on legislative, regulatory, and industry-specific technical matters;

Participation in industry advocacy, representation and liaison activities with government, community and industry groups;

Developing advocacy strategies aimed at gaining support for industry’s policy goals

Contribution to the development and implementation of CropLife’s Strategic Operational Plan.

About You/Selection Criteria:

To be successful in this role, you will need to demonstrate an effective track record or capability in at least some of the following key competencies:

In-depth knowledge of Australia’s gene technology regulatory system.

Negotiation and strategic skills that develop and deliver consensus positions amongst members;

Relevant academic qualifications and/or policy experience;

Experience in strategic communication, issues management or advocacy campaigns;

Well-developed oral and high level written communication skills, representational and interpersonal skills;

Capacity to manage complex projects and to work constructively with a wide range of stakeholders, including within small teams;

Experience in engaging with stakeholders to inform and align domestic regulatory and strategic approaches in Australia and globally;

Demonstrated ability to research, develop, and deliver a range of complex, high-quality, multifaceted materials.

The role requires some domestic travel and occasional international travel.

How to Apply

Your application should comprise a concise cover letter outlining your key attributes for the position and a copy of your current CV, and should be submitted by 5.00 pm Friday 18 July 2025 addressed to:

Mr Matthew Cossey

Chief Executive Officer

CropLife Australia

Sent via email to the CEO’s EA [email protected]

For more information about CropLife Australia and a full position description, visit croplife.org.au/about-us/job-opportunities/.