BAT is evolving at pace - truly like no other organisation.

To achieve the ambition, we have set for ourselves, we are looking for colleagues who are ready to live our ethos every day. Come be a part of this journey!

JOB TITLE: Government Affairs Manager, Ireland

FUNCTION: Legal and External Affairs (LEX)

SUB FUNCTION: External Affairs

CITY & COUNTRY: Sandyford, Dublin, Ireland – 3 days office based

ROLE POSITIONING AND OBJECTIVES

What are the key objectives and expectations from this role?

The regulatory environment is becoming increasingly dynamic across the various categories that BAT Ireland (PJ Carroll) operates in. The Irish government are currently rolling out its new nicotine policy and the Oireachtas will review the Public Health Bill (Tobacco and Nicotine Inhaling Products).

The External Engagement and Communication Manager, Ireland will be fundamental in driving BAT Ireland’s regulatory, and engagement plans. This will involve developing & coordinating campaigns to deliver business objectives over the long term.

WHAT YOU WILL BE ACCOUNTABLE FOR

• 
  Leading external engagement activities on behalf of the Ireland business with government departments and agencies, TDs and Senators, local councils, public policy groups, NGOs and other stakeholders in the Oireachtas.
• Devising and deploying campaign strategies to shape public policy and perceptions.
• Driving continuous and systematic stakeholder engagement planning and mapping to build acceptance among key external stakeholders of a range of world-leading and new-to-market products and in doing so, helping shape the sustainability of the Irish business’s future financial success.
• Drafting high quality, clear and concise advocacy materials, annual Budget submissions and position papers which communicate complex topics in an easy-to-understand manner for varied stakeholder groups.
• Representing BAT Ireland within sector trade bodies (including being Chair of tobacco manufacturers association Itmac in 2023), the broader business community and among think tanks ensuring our agenda is understood and implemented to drive forward regulatory priorities.
• Providing strategic counsel to other internal business functions, ensuring regulatory and reputational risks are effectively managed and mitigation strategies put in place.
• Developing and executing local regulatory campaigns as part of Global, Regional (EU) and local LEX priorities
• Monitoring, interpreting, and reacting to policy, legislative, regulatory and media developments which impact the business and sector.
• Support Trade Marketing and Activation teams on all brand and promotional activities, ensuring compliance with all local and international regulations.
• Represent LEX on the BAT Ireland Leadership Team and provide regular strategic advice and updates to Country Manager.

ESSENTIAL EXPERIENCE, SKILLS AND KNOWLEDGE

ESSENTIAL

Experience Required

• Demonstrable 4+ years of experience and success in public affairs and communications, ideally inhouse
• Good networks of politicians, civil servants and journalists
• Good understanding of vapour and tobacco policies in Ireland and EU

Technical / Functional / Leadership Skills Required

• Agile team-player works well in an environment where change is constant
• Self-motivated with a strong drive towards successful outcomes
• Strong communicator, both verbal and written
• Excellent working knowledge of the Irish and EU political and regulatory frameworks and who can manage multiple and complex regulatory issues on a day-to-day basis.
• English speaker

Education / Qualifications / Certifications Required

• Master’s degree / undergraduate degree preferred, and at least +4 years’ experience in public policy & external affairs; and communication roles.
• Teamwork and cross-functional coordination: proven competence and experience in managing in managing cross-corporate networks.

WE ARE BAT

At BAT we are committed to our Purpose of creating A Better Tomorrow. This is what drives our people and our passion for innovation. See what is possible for you at BAT.

• 
  Global Top Employer with 53,000 BAT people across more than 180 markets
• Brands sold in over 200 markets, made in 44 factories in 42 countries
• Newly established Tech Hubs building world-class capabilities for innovation in 4 strategic locations
• Diversity leader in the Financial Times and International Women’s Day Best Practice winner
• Seal Award winner – one of 50 most sustainable companies

BELONGING, ACHIEVING, TOGETHER

Collaboration, diversity, and teamwork underpin everything we do here at BAT. We know that collaborating with colleagues from different backgrounds is what makes us stronger and best prepared to meet our business goals. Come bring your difference!