External Engagement & AIT Manager, Ireland

BAT is evolving at pace into a global multi-category business. Our purpose is to create A Better Tomorrow™ by Building a Smokeless World. 
To achieve our ambition, we are looking for colleagues who are ready to join us on this journey! Tomorrow can’t wait, let’s shape it together!

The regulatory environment is becoming increasingly complex across the various categories that BAT Ireland (PJ Carroll) operates in. Two pieces of legislation are currently before Oireachtas which could change the regulatory landscape in Ireland considerably.

The External Engagement and AIT Manager, Ireland will be fundamental in driving BAT Ireland’s external engagement agenda, liaising with the Irish Government, stakeholders and regulators, as well as driving BAT’s anti-illicit trade (AIT) work in-country. This will involve developing and co-ordinating campaigns to deliver business objectives over the long term.

Your key responsibilities will include

• Leading external engagement activities on behalf of the Ireland business with government departments and agencies, TDs and Senators, local councils, public policy groups, NGOs and other stakeholders in the Oireachtas.
• Devising and deploying campaign strategies to shape public policy and perceptions.
• Driving continuous and systematic stakeholder engagement planning and mapping to build acceptance among key external stakeholders of a range of world-leading and new-to-market products and in doing so, helping shape the sustainability of the Irish business’s future financial success.
• Drafting high quality, clear and concise advocacy materials, annual Budget submissions and position papers which communicate complex topics in an easy-to-understand manner for varied stakeholder groups.
• Representing BAT Ireland within sector trade bodies, the broader business community and among think tanks ensuring our agenda is understood and implemented to drive forward regulatory priorities.
• Leading BAT Ireland’s AIT work, including engaging with enforcement bodies, regulators and other stakeholders as appropriate.
• Providing strategic counsel to other internal business functions, ensuring regulatory and reputational risks are effectively managed and mitigation strategies put in place.
• Developing and executing local regulatory campaigns as part of Global, Regional (EU) and local CORA priorities
• Monitoring, interpreting, and reacting to policy, legislative, regulatory and media developments which impact the business and sector.
• Support Trade Marketing and Activation teams on all brand and promotional activities, ensuring compliance with all local and international regulations.
• Represent CORA on the BAT Ireland Leadership Team and provide regular strategic advice and updates to the Country Manager.

What are we looking for?

• Proven experience (4+ years) in public affairs and corporate communications, preferably in-house
• Strong network of policymakers, government stakeholders, and media
• Good understanding of policy and regulatory processes in Ireland and EU
• Agile team-player works well in an environment where change is constant
• Self-motivated with a strong drive towards successful outcomes
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills in English
• Excellent working knowledge of the Irish and EU political and regulatory frameworks and who can manage multiple and complex regulatory issues on a day-to-day basis.
• Master’s degree / undergraduate degree preferred, and at least +4 years’ experience in public policy & external affairs; and communication roles
• Teamwork and cross-functional coordination: proven competence and experience in managing in managing cross-corporate networks

What we offer you?

• We offer a market leading annual performance bonus (subject to eligibility)
• Our range of benefits varies by country and includes diverse health plans, initiatives for work-life balance, transportation support, and a flexible holiday plan with additional incentives
• Your journey with us isn't limited by boundaries; it's propelled by your aspirations. Join us at BAT and become a part of an environment that thrives on internal advancement, where your career progression isn't just a statement – it's a reality we're eager to build together. Seize the opportunity and own your development; your next chapter starts here.
• You'll have access to online learning platforms and personalized growth programs to nurture your leadership skills
• We prioritise continuous improvement within a transformative environment, preparing for ongoing changes

WHY JOIN BAT?

We’re one of the few companies named as a Global Top Employer by the Top Employers Institute – certified in offering excellent employee conditions.

At BAT, we champion collaboration, inclusion, and partnership as the bedrock of our values. We wish to foster an environment where every individual can thrive, irrespective of factors such as gender, sexual orientation, marital or civil partnership status, gender reassignment, race, religion or belief, colour, nationality, ethnic or national origin, disability, age, skills, experience, education, socio-economic and professional background, as well as diverse perspectives and thinking styles. We recognise that our strength lies in embracing talent from all walks of life, empowering us to develop our culture of inclusivity and better achieve our business objectives.

We view career breaks not as obstacles but as opportunities and encourage everyone, without hesitation, to apply. Through our Global Returners program, we provide support to professionals seeking to re-enter the workforce after an extended absence, be it for family care, parental leave, national service, sabbatical, or starting their own venture.

Come bring your difference and see what is possible for you at BAT. Learn more about our culture and our award winning employee experiencehere.

We take pride in being a Disability Confident Employer. If you need any reasonable adjustments or accommodations to be made during the recruitment process to support you performing at your best, please inform the recruitment partner who will be in touch should your profile be selected for the role you applied for. We are wholeheartedly committed to optimising your prospects of success by making suitable arrangements so that you may showcase your full potential.