We are hiring!

Plants for the Future is looking for its next Executive Manager

Would you like to work at the intersection of science and policy, tackling sustainability of our agrifood systems at EU level? Apply to become the next Executive Manager of Plants for the Future!

Starting date: As soon as possible

Location: Brussels, Belgium

Mission and vision of Plant ETP

Plants for the Future ETP (Plant ETP) is a multistakeholder platform, including industry, breeders, farmers and academia, and representing the plant sector from fundamental research to crop production and distribution. Our vision is to Promote the flow of innovation from basic research to the market for the benefit of society. Our missions are to

  • Provide strategic direction for the Research & Innovation needs of the plant sector, by co-developing a vision for future agri-food systems
  • Promote science-based policymaking, by interfacing with EU institutions
  • Increase the awareness and appreciation of plant sciences and breeding in our agri-food systems, by communicating and engaging with stakeholders and society

Main responsibilities

The Executive Manager will lead and manage the Plant ETP platform and its activities, in close collaboration with its membership and the Board of Directors to whom he/she reports. Main responsibilities include

  • Setting strategic directions for the platform based on input from the Board, members and external sources
  • Developing and maintaining links with policymakers and acting as interlocutor towards the EU institutions, particularly the European Commission and the European Parliament
  • Fostering collaborations between Plant ETP members and engaging with external stakeholders to develop (1) a common understanding and a forward look among actors of the agrifood value chain and (2) recommendations for EU R&I policy
  • Organising and participating in workshops and events to identify opportunities across the value chain and in line with relevant policy developments
  • Organising and managing internal meetings of the Board, the General Assembly and Plant ETP Working Groups and Task Forces, managing finances, and securing financial resources and other support
  • Applying for and contributing to EU funded research projects
  • Guiding and providing input to the work of the Research and Communication Officer on communication activities, including the website and social media

Desired Profile

  • Good understanding of plant sciences (minimum M.Sc. or equivalent experience in biology or agronomy) and ability to convey complex issues clearly and concisely
  • Ability to act as an entrepreneur, to acquire third party financing and recruit additional members
  • Excellent organisational and interpersonal skills, and computer literacy: MS office
  • Communication experience in multistakeholder environments and impacting skills
  • Proven track record in project development and project management are a plus
  • Excellent English, knowledge of French or Dutch would be an advantage

To Apply

Candidates from industry, farmer organisations and public research are invited to apply. A work permit is required for non-EU citizens. Interested candidates should send their CV, cover letter outlining personal motivation and salary expectation, as well as earliest availability, to with the subject line “Plant ETP application”. 

Recruitment process

The application deadline is 18th May 2025.

First round: online interviews from 20th to 23rd May.

Second round: in person interviews in our Brussels office on 5th and 6th June.

Download the position details here.