Political Adviser for Animal Feed (as consultant)

Eurogroup for Animals is the pan-European animal protection organisation which unites the voices of leading national and international organisations. We work to improve the welfare of as many animals as possible by leading and delivering coordinated advocacy and campaigns at European level. Eurogroup for Animals uses its knowledge and expertise to challenge EU decision makers and bring about positive change. By uniting our members and working together we magnify national activities to get our message across at European level.

Our advocacy work consists of dedicated programmes and a growing portfolio of projects and campaigns.

The farm animals programme focuses on two key pillars: a first pillar on better protection for farm animals, focusing on significantly raising the level of animal welfare of the EU legislation, and a second pillar on food systems transformation, focusing on reducing the number of animals farmed for food and replacing slaughtered animal products. Within the farm animal programme, the insect project focuses on highlighting the risks of  the development of insect factory farming for food and feed.

Purpose of the role

Given the significant challenges in terms of climate and biodiversity, the European Commission is increasingly rethinking its agricultural and food policies. The EU Green Deal and Farm-to-Fork strategy are clear exponents of this new trend. At the same time we are witnessing a surge of food innovation at corporate level and a clear change of consumer preferences. 

Eurogroup for Animals’ farm animal programme aims at transformative food system change by significantly reducing animal protein production and consumption. We do this by enhancing the uptake of plant-based diets and cellular agriculture products in tandem with driving systemic change in animal farming as well as by hindering the development of new intensive farming systems. 

We are looking for an experienced Political Adviser to support our team in establishing an advocacy plan on animal feed sustainability and developing a strategy to accelerate the recognition of animal sentience in species newly intensively farmed. Additional responsibilities include scoping possible advocacy tactics and partnerships relating to animal feed advocacy and on the recognition of sentience processes at EU level. Initially this post is foreseen for 6 months with possible extension. 

Objectives

  • Execute and help shape Eurogroup for Animals food policy strategy with regard to animal feed, in particular new feed sources such as insects.
  • Provide strategic expertise on the animal feed supply chains and the welfare of newly farmed species such as insects connected to upcoming legislative files and animal sentience recognition
  • Provide institutional stakeholders with scientific advice and policy solutions.
  • Establish a network of resource experts including Member organisation, NGOs, and scientific experts
  • Ensure close working relationships with the farm animals team and the political and engagement team.

Position in the organisation

The Political Adviser for Animal Feed reports to the Political Adviser Food Policy who is in charge of the Food Policy advocacy portfolio. They work very closely with our political advisers and communications team as well as liaise with other colleagues responsible for areas such as membership engagement and finance as well as the senior management team. 

Person specifications

Experience

  • Demonstrable knowledge and experience of food policy, agricultural science, agricultural economy, sustainable animal agriculture or similar
  • In-depth knowledge of EU policy-making and influencing processes, ideally in the area of food or agricultural policy;
  • Proven knowledge of animal welfare or environmental impacts of industrial farming systems
  • Experience with political or campaigning advocacy work and/or collaborations among civil society groups

Skills & Abilities

  • Proven policy or legal research;
  • Excellent communication skills;
  • Fluent in English (spoken and written)
  • Analytical skills;
  • Strategic and forward thinking;
  • Flexible and pragmatic;
  • Computer literate;
  • Good Ability of working independently on own initiative and as part of a team;
  • Well-organised and focussed on concrete results and deliverables;
  • Being positive and respectful to people and animals;
  • Receiving and providing constructive feedback;
  • Service oriented towards members and other stakeholders;
  • Affinity with animal welfare issues and commitment towards Eurogroup for Animal’s vision and mission.

Contract

This position is full-time initially for 6 months on a consultancy basis and we are looking for somebody to start as soon as possible. Competitive remuneration offered.

How to apply

To apply for the post, please send a motivation letter stating the skills and approach that you would bring to this post along with your CV in English (Word format) by email to Aurélie Cassart - jobs@eurogroupforanimals.org. Please include your rates in your cover email and not in your motivation letter or CV.

Application deadline: 27 March 2023