The Plastics Industry Association (PLASTICS), located in Washington, DC, represents the nation’s nearly one million workers in the plastics industry. They are seeking a Senior Director of Regulatory Affairs to lead advocacy strategies on behalf of member companies to effectively manage environmental, health, and safety (EHS) and product regulatory issues related to plastics industry operations. PLASTICS provides unlimited paid time off, generous medical benefits, and competitive salaries. This position is hybrid, requiring three days in the office each week.

Position Summary

Reporting to the Vice President of Government Affairs, the Senior Director of Regulatory Affairs leads advocacy strategies on behalf of member companies for science- and fact-based regulations, codes, and standards where appropriate to protect and grow the industry, consistent with PLASTICS’ strategic objectives. The Senior Director leads the development and implementation of environmental and product regulatory programs and projects. This position also collaborates internally and externally to support relevant work on EHS and product regulatory issues to advance member priorities.

Responsibilities

Lead the development and implementation of EHS and product regulatory and technical programs/projects relevant to plastics industry operations.
Serve as the staff lead for relevant PLASTICS committees, including administration, budgeting, and consultant/project management, consistent with PLASTICS’ goals.
Engage with the committee members to develop consensus on priority needs and policy positions and proactively advance priority issues to meet members’ needs.
Analyze and evaluate existing and anticipated regulations, policy developments, and related initiatives; develop and execute relevant advocacy strategies.
Lead the development of briefings, technical evaluations, testimony, and comments on regulatory issues that impact the industry.
Collaborate with the Government Affairs, Sustainability, and Industry Engagement teams and others internally to support work on EHS and product regulatory issues and to solicit member input.
Partner with the Fluoropolymers Division to track, analyze, and monitor developments related to per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA), and other regulatory and industry issues, ensuring proactive compliance, informed decision making, and effective advocacy efforts.
Engage with and provide support to the Food, Drug, and Cosmetics Packaging Materials Committee (FDCPMC) on an as-needed basis in collaboration with the Director of Public Policy, ensuring informed policy development, regulatory compliance, and effective industry advocacy.
Develop communications and programming to provide members with relevant compliance assistance and education; encourage member participation in regulatory processes.
Provide representation and advocacy to, and collaborate with, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), the Small Business Administration (SBA), and other related government agencies and coalitions.
Interface with association members, regulatory agencies, industry trade groups, coalitions, scientific institutions, non-governmental organizations, other stakeholders, and external counsel to represent PLASTICS member interests.
Develop, maintain, and strengthen a network of key officials and decisionmakers to advance industry priorities.
Promote transparent, science- and fact-based decision making in regulatory and related policies and processes.
Assist in responding to relevant press inquiries and developing other public messaging, including communications related to rulemaking.
Oversee the daily workflow and learning and development of the Manager, Regulatory Affairs.

Skills and Abilities

Excellent written and verbal communication including presentation skills with diverse stakeholder audiences
Self-motivation with an ability to work well autonomously
Strong attention to detail and emotional intelligence
Excellent analytical, strategic, problem-solving, organizational, and interpersonal skills
Ability to provide excellent customer service to and build consensus amongst internal and external stakeholders
Ability to prioritize and work on various projects simultaneously, adjust to changing priorities, meet deadlines, and deliver results
Demonstrated ability to lead people and get results through others
Earnest work ethic and dedication to collective success of the organization in service of its membership
Proactive and solutions-oriented mindset when addressing complex challenges and issues
Commitment to promoting and working in an inclusive and diverse environment with a variety of colleagues from multiple backgrounds
Commitment to embodying and upholding PLASTICS’ core values of ethics, unity, impact, optimism, and innovation in all interactions and responsibilities
Ability to travel up to 10%

Required Education and/or Experience

Bachelor’s degree in polymer science/engineering, chemistry, chemical engineering, environmental science/engineering, toxicology, or a related field
Minimum of seven years of experience in a similar or related position in a plastics, chemical, environmental, or occupational health and safety related regulatory government agency
Minimum of three years of people management and leadership experience
Demonstrated experience working directly with the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), Federal Trade Commission (FTC), Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), and related agencies or organizations
Expert knowledge of the plastics industry, EPA’s Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA), relevant EHS and product laws, regulations and processes, programs, and standards
Expert knowledge of food, drug, and cosmetic packaging and the regulatory scheme that encompasses these products
Demonstrated experience cultivating relationships with internal and external stakeholders
Demonstrated experience managing committees and working with coalitions
Working knowledge of Microsoft Office applications

Preferred Experience

Master’s degree
Trade association experience

How To Apply

If you believe you meet the requirements, please submit a resume, cover letter, and two writing samples to the Apply button.

Salary Range: $152,000 - $210,000

Additional inquiries and questions can be emailed to Beth Cessna at jobs@cessnasearch.com or contact 202-232-1765.

About The Plastics Industry Association (PLASTICS)

The Plastics Industry Association (PLASTICS) is a purpose-driven organization that supports the entire plastics supply chain. From the technological advancements it enables to the possibilities it creates, the organization is dedicated to helping members shape the future and make a positive impact every day. PLASTICS is the only association that supports the entire plastics supply chain and has a track record of fostering collaboration between each segment of the industry, evolving right alongside the plastics industry as a whole.

Together, employees at PLASTICS shape the direction of the entire plastics industry and, as a job requirement, hav some fun while doing so. Employees have the opportunity to learn, develop, and impact both the industry and the association.

PLASTICS is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer.

About Cessna & Associates, LLC

Cessna & Associates, LLC is a boutique HR consultancy partnering with mission-driven nonprofit organizations. Our goal is to identify the best potential candidates that the market has to offer.

Senior Director, Regulatory Affairs