COMPANY SUMMARY:

As the leading trade association representing producers and supporters of biofuels, we work every day to bring consumers better choices at the fuel pump, grow America's economy, and improve the environment for future generations at home and abroad.

POSITION SUMMARY:

As the Director of Global Policy based in the Washington, DC office, you will play a pivotal role in shaping international policies and regulations that impact the ethanol industry. Leveraging your understanding of ethanol production processes, environmental sustainability, trade policy, and regulatory compliance, you will lead our engagement with foreign governments, the U.S. government, industry stakeholders, and international organizations to advocate for policies that support the growth and sustainability of ethanol by eliminating trade barriers and opening and maintaining market access to increase U.S. ethanol exports, along with adjacent products.

PRINCIPAL DUTIES :

• Policy Analysis: Conduct in-depth analysis of foreign policies, trade agreements, and regulatory frameworks to assess their impact on ethanol production, distribution, and market access.
• Strategic Engagement: Develop and execute strategies to influence foreign governments, the U.S. Government, regulatory bodies, and industry stakeholders to adopt policies that promote ethanol as a renewable and sustainable energy solution.
• Stakeholder Collaboration: Collaborate with Growth Energy members, fellow colleagues, industry partners, foreign service officials and government agencies at home and abroad to identify technological advancements, best practices, and regulatory enhancements that promote the competitiveness and sustainability of ethanol usage.
• Market Development: Identify opportunities to expand market access for ethanol exports by addressing technical barriers, harmonizing standards, and promoting the environmental benefits of ethanol as a low-carbon fuel. Collaborate with the Growth Energy market development team for commercial insight and strategic direction.
• Risk Assessment: Monitor global trends, geopolitical developments, and regulatory changes that could impact the ethanol industry, and develop risk mitigation strategies to safeguard against potential disruptions.
• Compliance Assurance: Ensure compliance with international standards, regulations, and industry best practices governing bioethanol production, transportation, and trade.
• Technical Advocacy: Serve as a subject matter expert on ethanol production technologies, environmental sustainability standards, and regulatory compliance requirements in international forums, diplomatic engagements, and policy discussions.

SECONDARY DUTIES:

• Liaise with other departments to include multiple points of view that lead to a unified approach to foreign policy that aligns with the organization’s outlook and goals.
• Communicate weekly & monthly reporting on progress towards reaching annual goals.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

POSITION SPECIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor's degree required; advanced degree preferred; Coursework in chemical engineering, bioengineering, environmental science, or a related technical field us a plus.
• Previous experience in the bioethanol industry is a plus, including an understanding of bioethanol production processes, feedstock sourcing, environmental sustainability metrics, and regulatory compliance requirements.
• Proven track record of influencing foreign policy decisions, trade negotiations, and regulatory frameworks.
• Strong analytical skills and ability to translate technical insights into policy recommendations and advocacy strategies.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to engage effectively with diverse stakeholders at all levels.
• Strategic thinker with a results-oriented approach and a commitment to driving positive change in global energy policy.
• Previous experience with global policy or trade of agricultural or energy commodities is a plus.

ESSENTIAL SKILLS AND KNOWLEDGE:

• Ability to navigate balancing numerous stakeholders and deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
• Demonstrated understanding of market development and the liquid fuels environment.
• Excellent proficiency with Microsoft Office products, which include Word, Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint, Microsoft Teams, and Zoom.
• Experience compiling, analyzing, and prioritizing information for review and dissemination to internal/external audiences.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.

ESSENTIAL COMPETENCIES & BEHAVIORS:

• Exceptional interpersonal skills: ability to negotiate, build relationships, influence others and work cooperatively with internal and external groups.
• Industrious, self-motivated, and able to work well independently and with all levels of professionals in pursuit of a final goal.
• A willingness to embrace change and adapt strategies as needed.
• Ability to accept change and be flexible, focusing on action and outcomes.
• Ability to be innovative and solutions based.
• Ability to elicit cooperation and collaboration from a wide variety of sources.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES:

No direct reports.

WORK ENVIRONMENT:

The fast-paced nature of this position for Growth Energy requires a consistent office presence. Employees are generally expected to maintain regular and punctual attendance.

TRAVEL:

International and domestic travel up to 50% may be required.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

Sitting/standing/lifting/keyboarding/etc.