Manager, Government Affairs EMEA

VF Corporation is looking for an exceptional Manager, Government Affairs EMEA/EU to join our team based in Stabio, Switzerland.

Let’s talk about the role!     

The Manager of Government Affairs presents and advances VF’s government relations agenda before elected officials and government decision makers in EMEA, within both the European Union and Member States. The associate in this position is responsible for building awareness, education and lobbying regarding, but not limited to, trade, product safety standards, environmental laws, sustainability endeavours, agriculture, transportation/logistics, infrastructure, privacy and tax.  The leader in this role engages key internal decision makers and subject matter experts as needed to support VF’s advocacy efforts and build coalitions of support to defend/amend or advocate for legislative proposals. The goals for this individual include strengthening VF’s business through a results-oriented approach to government affairs, programs and practices.

• Enhance reputation with elected officials across EU government institutions and within key Member States.
• Influence regulation and legislation to ease VF’s business, reduce costs and protect VF and our brands from potential negative legislation. 
• Build relationships with elected officials and their staff to elevate VF policy positions to key members.
• Execute strategy to advance VF’s priorities while working with outside consultants and trade associations.
• Help led efforts to build government affairs program that has buy-in from key internal stakeholders, including VF brands, in order to understand their legislative and policy agendas and identify opportunities to provide value.
• Research and analyse public policy issues and build awareness around policy trends to help build holistic government affairs strategy at VF.
• Monitor/track priority legislation to understand pending legislation/regulation that may affect VF’s business or reputation.
• Work closely with the teams required for compliance and implementation to ensure the business is prepared for upcoming laws
• Develop and maintain collateral, one pagers, resource and reference material including policy statements/guides, talking points, presentations, advocacy materials.
• Represent VF at key events Brussels
• Track all outreach to policy makers as required by various lobbying disclosure requirements using our database.

Skills for Success

• Years of Related Professional Experience: 5+ years
• Relationships with EU government institutions
• Experience working in the apparel and footwear sector is a plus
• BA/BS in Political Science, Public Affairs or Public Policy
• Effective communication skills (verbal and written)
• Strong interpersonal/influencing skills
• Proven experience building external strategic relationships
• Ability to work cross-functionally with internal leaders
• Travel by air and overnight 25% of time 

What’s in it For You

We’re in the business of unleashing human potential, driven by our people's ideas, energy, and commitment. That’s why we offer comprehensive benefits that encourage mental, physical, and financial well-being for all VF associates. When it comes to benefits, we’re the total package.

• A supportive feedback-based culture where respect and integrity guide us in what we do
• An inclusive international environment where people of diverse backgrounds, lifestyles and nationalities love working together
• Be part of an iconic lifestyle brand in a multi brand, multi countries organization
• On site gym offering health and well-being initiatives
• A discount card with 50% on all VF brands
• Break out areas offering complimentary hot drinks

About VF

VF is a global apparel company connecting people to the lifestyles they cherish through our family of iconic brands. At the heart of our journey lies our purpose: We power movements of sustainable and active lifestyles for the betterment of people and our planet. This is our purpose. It’s the reason we come to work every day. Our purpose unites us and leads us to pursue our goals, together. This is our calling. Learn more at http://vfc.com

Free to Be, Inclusion & Diversity 

As a purpose-led, performance driven company, we strive to foster a culture of belonging based on respect, connection, openness and authenticity. We are committed to building and maintaining a workplace that celebrates the diversity of our associates, allowing them to bring their authentic selves to work every day.

As an equal opportunity and affirmative action employer, VF is committed to support disadvantaged groups whilst providing equal opportunities for both VF associates and applicants alike.

If you like what you have read and want to join our team then we would like to hear from you!