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

Download the position details here.

Mission and vision of Plant ETP

Plants for the Future ETP (Plant ETP) is a multistakeholder platform, including the seed and breeding industry, 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 include

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 they report.

  • 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
  • Managing member relations, strengthening member engagement and attracting new members to ensure the continued growth and impact of the platform
  • Collaborate with 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, plant-related sciences or agronomy) and ability to convey complex issues clearly
    and concisely
  • Good understanding of the EU institutions and their functioning , particularly in the areas of research & innovation, agriculture and biotechnology, is an advantage
  • Ability to act as an entrepreneur, to acquire third party financing and recruit additional
    members
  • Excellent organisational , leadership, interpersonal skills, and computer literacy
  • Communication experience in multistakeholder environments and impacting skills
  • Proven track record in project development and project management is a plus
  • Excellent English, knowledge of French or Dutch would be an advantage

 

To apply

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

 

Recruitment process

The application deadline is 25th of September 2026 EOB (CEST time).
Please note that only candidates selected for an interview will be contacted.
First round: online interviews from 30th of September to 2nd of October 2026 .
Second round: in person interviews in our Brussels office on 7th, 8th and 9th of October 2026.