Vice President, Public Affairs and EU Operations

Plasma Protein Therapeutics Association

About the Organisation

Plasma Protein Therapeutics Association (PPTA) is the global industry trade association representing the private sector collectors of source plasma (plasma for manufacturing) and manufacturers of plasma-derived medicinal products (PDMPs). As a trusted partner to health systems, PPTA drives broad and reliable access to plasma-derived medicinal products, focusing on the well-being of patients and plasma donors. These therapies are used by small patient populations worldwide to treat a variety of rare diseases and serious medical conditions.

PPTA Europe (located in Brussels) is actively engaged in setting advocacy and priority initiatives and strategies for improving access to care for PDMPs at the European Union level and within individual EU member states. Staff is engaged in shaping the legislative, policy, regulatory, and trade environment.

About the role

Vice President of Public Affairs & EU Operations is responsible for the management and execution of European health policy-related issues at the European Union and national levels. The VP will play a key role alongside PPTA staff and members in setting and implementing the association’s EU policy, regulatory, and communications goals and objectives as well as implementing strategies and tactical plans to advance these. The successful candidate will have demonstrated effective management of staff, knowledge of the EU public affairs landscape, and familiarity with the plasma sector.

This role also serves as the operational director for the Brussels office, responsible for the overall effective management of the Association’s European affairs in collaboration with peers in the Association’s U.S. headquarters based in the greater Washington, D.C. area. This seasoned professional must demonstrate effective people management and strategic leadership skills.

The priorities of the Association are accomplished through the efforts of volunteers from member companies, with professional support provided by staff in the EU and U.S. offices through a matrixed, “one-team” approach. The Vice President, Public Affairs & EU Operations must ensure timely, effective, and efficient collaboration between volunteer members and Association staff, and ensure the successful execution of all programs and activities aligned with the goals identified in the Association’s strategic plan.

The Vice President of Public Affairs & EU Operations reports to the President & CEO of PPTA and serves as a key member of the Association’s senior leadership team, contributing toward the strategic and tactical planning of Association programs and activities.

Responsibilities

• Serves as the senior point of contact for industry interests in Europe to various government and non-government agencies and organizations and acts as a media spokesperson for Europe, representing the Association’s positions or policies, as developed by working groups, the Board and as directed by the CEO;
• Oversees budget management for the EU office and execution of public affairs, advocacy, regulatory, and communications programs;
• Coordinates work plans with the CEO and reports activities to PTA's senior management team and the membership as appropriate;
• Works in a matrix with responsible staff on various data collection and generation activities;
• Leads appropriate, effective, and timely planning for the annual international conference (IPPC);
• Establishes and maintains harmonious working relationships with associations whose members are in common to the membership of PPTA;
• Interacts with other allied organizations and patient groups as needed. Provides representation for the Association with key European stakeholders;
• Ensures appropriate and timely responses to communications directed to the Association, in coordination with the CEO and other senior leaders;
• In consultation with the CEO, represents the Association at meetings and when appropriate reports promptly to the Board and/or working groups any actions taken. Coordinates representation with staff and volunteer members as appropriate;
• Maintains an organizational structure and culture that accomplishes the programs, activities, and goals of the Association;
• Establishes an inspiring, forward-thinking work environment in the Brussels office that emphasizes the matrix of this global association and fosters a strong team mentality;
• Reports coordinates, and communicates all activities and operations of the European office to the CEO promptly;
• Performs other tasks as assigned.

Skills, Competencies & Experience

Experience:

• Minimum 8 years experience in mid- to senior-level management role, including supervisory experience;
• Experience with health policy issues and advocacy at EU and national levels;
• Familiarity with European public health, regulatory, and pharmaceutical reimbursement practices;
• Experience in association management or multi-national corporations preferred.

Skills & Abilities:

• Strategic thinker;
• Excellent interpersonal skills;
• Excels in promoting teamwork; ability to work in a collaborative matrixed environment;
• Ability to effectively prioritize numerous projects simultaneously;
• Strong budget planning and stewardship capabilities;
• Outcomes-focused;
• Superior written and verbal communication skills;
• Proven leadership skills;
• Conflict resolution and consensus-building skills are essential;
• Excellent command of English; good command of French and other European languages is an advantage;
• Flexibility and adaptability;
• Willingness to travel, and availability for occasional work outside of regular office hours.

Required Qualifications

• University Degree in Political Sciences, Public Affairs, Law, Medicine, and relevant

Compensation & Benefits

• Attractive Salary Package
• Comprehensive Benefits;
• Annual Performance Bonus 
• Pension Scheme.

Working locations

• Hybrid model, working in the Brussels office and remotely

How to apply

• Send an email to [email protected] with a CV and a cover letter by 9th March 2025 at 5 PM

Interviews

• Shortlisted candidates will be contacted for an interview

Return to listing