Join the Team
At the National Oilseed Processors Association, we offer a challenging and friendly team environment fueled by mutual respect and professionalism. To apply for a position, send cover letter and resume to HR@nopa.org
View our open positions below:
Regulatory Affairs Lead
The National Oilseed Processors Association (NOPA) is in search of a senior leader to direct regulatory affairs activities for this important National trade association representing the oilseed processors in the United States. We seek an accomplished self-starter who can effectively oversee and manage regulatory affairs efforts important to member companies and the industry, drawing on expertise and resources from members, allied associations and industry coalitions. As the key advocate on industry positions, excellent organizational, oral and written communication skills are of utmost importance.
The Organization
Established in 1930, NOPA’s (www.nopa.org) mission is to assist the U.S Oilseed Industry by cultivating a thriving and sustainable operating environment through advocacy and strategic collaboration. NOPA represents 13 member companies who process over 1.8 billion bushels of oilseeds annually at 63 plants in 21 states.
The Position
The purpose of this role is to provide expert support, guidance and thought-leadership to NOPA’s committees responsible for the regulatory issues which affect the ability of NOPA members to run their operations in a safe, efficient and highly productive manner. This role is responsible for the development, implementation and management of effective regulatory policy strategies in support of NOPA’s policy objectives and priorities.
Position responsibilities
- Lead NOPA’s internally- and externally-facing regulatory affairs activities, working closely with NOPA members and allied organizations and coalitions to develop regulatory policy, facilitate agency interactions, and formulate technical responses and support.
- Inform NOPA’s Board about regulatory issues and developments
- Create and manage issue-specific, multi-association coalitions
- Liaise with government & non-government regulatory agencies and organizations, esp. EPA, OSHA & FDA
Key issue areas
The successful candidate will oversee and manage key regulatory and legislative issues, including:
- Environmental
- Employee safety/health
- Food safety/food defense
- Homeland security
- Chemical security
Other important parameters for this position include:
- The Regulatory Affairs Lead will be housed in NOPA’s Washington, D.C. office.
- The position reports directly to the President, with dotted line reporting to the NOPA Board and Regulatory Subcommittee.
- Travel required for this position is moderate, including four (4) NOPA meetings, several industry meetings/conferences per year and occasional visits to member facilities.
Candidate Profile
The ideal candidate has a compelling blend of relevant scientific and regulatory expertise, paired with excellent communication and leadership skills. He or she can identify, prioritize and manage existing or emerging issues or crises in close collaboration with NOPA’s Committees, senior representatives of member companies and outside coalitions.
Education level
- Bachelor’s Degree in a relevant engineering or science discipline. A Master’s Degree is a plus.
Experience and skills
- 10+ years’ experience leading regulatory initiatives in the food and agriculture industry, including issue and policy management, development and interpretation of technical standards, and proactive work with federal regulatory agencies/staff to create and influence policy development.
- Comprehensive understanding of regulatory and legislative processes, including rule and legislation development and procedures of relevant legislative and regulatory bodies.
- Solid working knowledge of environmental, health and safety, and food safety rules and regulations in the context of industrial manufacturing operations, as well as knowledge of the practices and policies of the federal agencies behind them. Working knowledge of environmental law, rules and regulations and that of the USEPA is essential, with particular expertise on air emission issues. Specific knowledge of the oilseed processing industry and the rules and regulations governing it and its processing supply chain is a plus.
- Ability to draft comprehensive regulatory comments or testimony on behalf of the oilseed processing industry.
- Demonstrated experience building relationships with member organizations, at all levels, as well as with legislators, regulatory agencies and external consultants to effect meaningful change and necessary results in the industry.
- Ability to develop pro-active and responsible approaches to resolve complex, multidimensional issues through application of strategic thinking is expected.
- Excellent interpersonal, written and public communication skills, with an ability to produce effective communications materials, including the ability to distill complex and/or technical information into concise, influential communications.
National Oilseed Processors Association (NOPA) is an equal opportunity employer (EOE) and does not discriminate against employees or applicants for employment based on race, religion, sex, national origin, disability, sexual orientation, veteran status or marital status.
