Head of Network Development and Policy

Head of Network Development and Policy

FEBA – European Food Banks Federation

Brussels, Belgium

Contract period: Full-time (40 hours per week), CDI under Belgian Labour Law
Reporting to: CEO
Salary: € 72,000-84,000 pa

Summary:

The European Food Banks Federation (FEBA) is dedicated to supporting our Member Organisations across 30 European countries in their mission to alleviate hunger and reduce food waste. As a leading NGO in Belgium and Europe, we strive to create sustainable partnerships and mobilise resources that empower our members to deliver impactful results.

FEBA is seeking an experienced and driven Head of Network Development and Policy, who will be responsible for leading, developing, and implementing strategies that expand the capacity, efficiency, and impact of the European Food Banks Federation’s network.

This role is pivotal to achieving our mission, leading the financial and partnership strategies that empower our members and enable our programmes to achieve our collective goals.

The role requires a hands-on manager with strong communication skills, an understanding of EU policies, and expertise in non-profit development. Reporting directly to the CEO, the Head of Network Development and Policy will play a crucial role in shaping the food banking movement and executing the core mission of FEBA.

This role offers a unique leadership opportunity to drive sustainable development and make a tangible difference in the lives of millions. If you are passionate about leading change and driving results, we invite you to join us on this journey.

What We Offer:

• Competitive salary: We offer a competitive package of benefits that includes a monthly gross salary of €6000-7000 p.m., hybrid/flexible working, end of year bonus, travel allowance, 32 days’ holiday, inpatient Insurance, and meal vouchers;
• Autonomy: We believe in giving our team members the freedom to innovate and make a real impact. As the Head of our Network Development and Policy Department, you will have the autonomy to make decisions and shape our operational activities in line with our organisational goals;
• Collaborative Goal Driven Environment: Our team values a safe space for expressing new ideas and cooperation among team members. We believe that great achievements are the results of team efforts.

Responsibilities:

Strategy and Policy Leadership:

• Lead FEBA’s policy efforts, including building capacity and setting priorities to achieve impactful outcomes;
• Awareness of EU legislative developments and external trends, providing timely advice to CEO and ensuring FEBA’s proactive engagement in relevant policy discussions;
• Lead high-profile advocacy campaigns and public affairs strategies, focusing on food security, poverty alleviation, and sustainable development;
• Act as a strategic spokesperson for FEBA in media and public forums, communicating the organisation’s mission, values, and policy positions;
• Build and sustain strong relationships with EU policymakers, government agencies, international partners, and key stakeholders to influence policies that align with FEBA’s objectives. 

Programme Development and Oversight:

• Lead programmes in alignment with FEBA’s strategic goals;
• Ensure effective organisation and execution of FEBA’s Annual Convention and other major events;
• Collaborate with academic institutions, think tanks, and research bodies to contribute to evidence-based policymaking and strategic insights for FEBA;
• Foster collaboration across the FEBA network by sharing best practices, tools, and resources to impact at the national level;
• Develop and implement strategies for capacity building and sustainable growth of FEBA’s membership, encouraging innovative approaches to food recovery and distribution;
• Foster strong relationships between member organisations to encourage knowledge sharing and cooperation.

Grant Management and External Partnerships:

• Support grant applications and oversee the reporting and execution of EU and other grant- funded activities;
• Build and maintain relationships with key stakeholders, including governmental agencies, international organisations, NGOs, corporate partners, and donors;
• Promote the work of FEBA through active participation in conferences, events, and policy forums at the EU and international levels.

Financial and Administrative Oversight:

• Ensure efficient management of resources across all programs and policy-related activities, with a focus on delivering measurable results;
• Lead and manage the Network Development and Policy team, ensuring that departmental goals and objectives are aligned with the broader organizational strategy;
• Set annual plans, budgets, and performance metrics for the department;
• Regularly report to CEO and other members of the Senior Management Team on network development progress and policy activities;
• Oversee the development of communications materials, including reports, newsletters, and media statements, ensuring clear and impactful messaging for all stakeholders.

Staff Management:

• Define clear objectives and work plans ensuring alignment with organisational goals and strategies;
• Provide regular feedback and conduct one-on-one discussions to manage team workloads, enhance performance, and support professional growth;
• Create personalized development plans to enhance the skills of team members, preparing them to take on greater responsibilities;
• Conduct performance reviews to celebrate success and identify areas for growth.

Qualifications:

Experience and Knowledge:

• Master’s degree in Economics, Business Administration, Management, or a related field;
• At least 10 years of relevant experience, with significant leadership experience in managing cross-functional teams and driving policy initiatives. Experience within the EU or Brussels context is considered an asset;
• Experience in the food banking and/or food systems sectors is highly desirable;
• Proven leadership experience in managing cross-functional teams, driving policy initiatives, and advocating at high levels within the EU or other international contexts;
• Knowledge of EU policies related to food security, agriculture, sustainability, and social welfare, with a strong commitment to social justice and sustainable development;
• Solid understanding of food banking concepts; experience within any FEBA member organisation is considered an advantage;
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to present complex issues clearly and persuasively to diverse audiences;
• Demonstrated project management skills, with a proven track record of delivering programs on time and within budget;
• Fluency in English is required; proficiency in additional languages is an advantage.

Skills and Abilities:

• Strong leadership qualities with an ability to take initiative and drive projects to completion;
• Excellent verbal and written skills in English; additional language skills are an asset;
• Focused on delivering measurable outcomes and ensuring alignment with organisational goals;
• Innovative problem-solving showcasing creativity and agility in overcoming challenges;
• Excellent communication skills, with an ability to influence at the highest levels;
• Strong negotiation and stakeholder management skills to drive collaboration and results.

Additional Requirements:

• Willingness to occasionally travel abroad;
• Only candidates who possess a valid work permit for Belgium are eligible for consideration.

At FEBA, we are committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive work environment where every team member is valued and empowered. If you are passionate about making a tangible impact in the fight against hunger and food insecurity across Europe, we invite you to apply for this opportunity.

How to apply: Interested candidates are invited to share their CV and Cover Letter to [email protected] with the subject line ‘Head of Network Development and Policy’.

The application deadline is 5pm, Friday 15^th of November 2024.

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis. Due to the high volume of applications, only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.