Head of Government Relations

About the role

The Head of Government Relations is a leadership role in Foodstuffs’ Co-operative Affairs team and reports to the General Manager. Co-operative Affairs is a national function within Foodstuffs, supporting both the North Island and South Island co-ops. Key responsibilities of the role will include:

· Leading government relations strategies and initiatives that support Foodstuffs’ priorities and objectives.

· Providing government relations advice and support to important stakeholders including directors and senior leaders.

· Overseeing the co-operatives’ public policy function and the related engagement and advocacy work with government and industry stakeholders.

· Playing a key role in developing and implementing Foodstuffs’ reputation management strategies.

About you

With strong communication, influencing and negotiating skills, you’ll show the ability to ability to develop and implement government relations strategies.

You’ll have strong existing relationships with political stakeholders across the spectrum as well as government officials and a proven experience in identifying opportunities where businesses can engage and have a constructive voice on key issues. You’ll have experience understanding, interpreting and influencing policy outcomes and have the ability to represent Foodstuffs at a range of industry and government forums.

As a key ambassador for Foodstuffs, you’ll have high levels of curiosity, strong commercial acumen and a calm demeanour.

About us

A kiwi success story - our co-operatives, Foodstuffs North Island and Foodstuffs South Island, are 100% New Zealand owned and operated. A part of almost every community in NZ, we’ve come from humble beginnings and have grown to become one of New Zealand's largest and most thriving businesses. We believe it's our people, our drive to anticipate what our customers want and need - and our commitment to be Here for NZ - that sets us apart.