Employment Opportunities
Director of Crop Biotechnology Policy
Join CropLife Australia as a Director of Crop Biotechnology Policy
• Exciting opportunity in the crop biotechnology sector.
• Dynamic role in a national peak industry organisation
• Canberra-based | Competitive salary (Approx. $150k total renumeration package, including superannuation)
The Organisation
CropLife Australia is the national peak industry organisation for Australia’s plant science sector (crop protection products and crop biotechnology innovations). CropLife leads efforts to ensure an independent science-based, efficient and effective regulatory environment that supports innovation and facilitates the nation’s farming and environmental land management sectors’ access to high-quality products from the plant science industry. The organisation also works to advance the responsible and effective use of industry products with world-leading industry stewardship programs and initiatives.
The Position
We are seeking to appoint a skilled, experienced and highly motivated professional to work effectively with member companies, government agencies, and sector stakeholders to develop and implement public policies, regulatory reform and programs on behalf of the crop biotechnology sector.
The Director of Crop Biotechnology Policy reports to CropLife’s Chief Executive Officer. The key focus of the job is to provide high level strategic and policy advice and manage a wide variety of issues in respect of CropLife Australia’s work in the public policy and regulation of crop biotechnology.
Key Responsibilities
• Analysis of critical issues, formulating policy solutions and/or issues management strategies, and developing effective delivery platforms;
• Preparation of high-level submissions to parliamentary committees and governments, along with briefing materials for parliamentarians, ministerial
advisers, and senior public servants on legislative, regulatory, and industry-specific technical matters; • Participation in industry advocacy, representation and liaison activities with government, community and industry groups;
• Developing advocacy strategies aimed at gaining support for industry’s policy goals
• Contribution to the development and implementation of CropLife’s Strategic Operational Plan.
About You/Selection Criteria:
To be successful in this role, you will need to demonstrate an effective track record or capability in at least some of the following key competencies:
• In-depth knowledge of Australia’s gene technology regulatory system.
• Negotiation and strategic skills that develop and deliver consensus positions amongst members;
• Relevant academic qualifications and/or policy experience;
• Experience in strategic communication, issues management or advocacy campaigns;
• Well-developed oral and high level written communication skills, representational and interpersonal skills;
• Capacity to manage complex projects and to work constructively with a wide range of stakeholders, including within small teams;
• Experience in engaging with stakeholders to inform and align domestic regulatory and strategic approaches in Australia and globally;
• Demonstrated ability to research, develop, and deliver a range of complex, high-quality, multifaceted materials
The role requires some domestic travel and occasional international travel.
Why Join Us?
• Be part of a small, dedicated dynamic team making a national impact.
• Work on meaningful projects that support innovation in agriculture.
• Gain experience in high-level communications, policy, and advocacy.
How to Apply
Your application should comprise a concise cover letter outlining your key attributes for the position and a copy of your current CV, and should be submitted by 5.00 pm Friday 18 July 2025 addressed to:
Mr Matthew Cossey
Chief Executive Officer
CropLife Australia
Sent via email to the CEO’s EA courtney.hope@croplife.org.au
