Location: Amsterdam, The Netherlands
Contract: Full time
Start date: July 8, 2024
Application deadline: May 10, 2024
Interview dates: May 20-24, 2024
Pre-interview requirement: A written assignment will be required from selected candidates.

At the Organic Cotton Accelerator (OCA), we believe organic cotton is the catalyst for a truly sustainable textiles sector. Our platform unites the sector to unleash the potential of organic cotton, from field to fashion, for people and the planet. We envision a future where, every time a farmer switches to organic cotton, there is a ripple effect of positivity: farmers earn more and their land and soils are fertile for future generations, protecting our planet. We call this the Organic Cotton Effect.

About the Role 

OCA has recently developed a Public Affairs strategy, and we are looking for an enthusiastic Junior Public Affairs Officer to support the implementation. In this role, you can positively impact and contribute towards genuine, meaningful change during a critical time for our planet.

The Junior Public Affairs Officer position is a new role reporting directly to the Communications and Public Affairs Director. You will collaborate closely with the members of the Communications team and other departments. Although the role primarily focuses on EU policy, it will also encompass responsibilities in other regions where OCA operates its programmes. As Public affairs is a new function in our organisation, it offers ample opportunities for you to make significant contributions and advance your career.

Responsibilities

Support strategy implementation 

  • Assist in the rollout of OCA`s Public Affairs Strategy based on an annual plan
  • Support the management of relationships with policy stakeholders such as government entities, EU institutions and industry organisations globally
  • Assist in preparing content for policy-related events, meetings, and presentations
  • Actively participate in the production of relevant materials such as position papers, factsheets, and briefings
  • Work closely with the Communications team for a combined Public affairs and Public relations strategy. This includes press releases and external communications on our website, newsletters, and social media channels
  • Collaborate with the various departments to ensure a good connection with the organisational objectives

Research and monitoring

  • Conduct research on policy developments, legislative changes, and industry trends that affect OCA and the sector
  • Monitoring and mapping of relevant issues
  • Develop briefings and internal newsletters to keep colleagues and other stakeholders informed

Administrative support

  • Perform administrative tasks related to Public Affairs projects and initiatives, such as scheduling meetings, maintaining databases, and managing correspondence
  • Other tasks may be assigned as necessary according to organisational needs

Your profile  

  • Bachelor’s degree in Political Science or a related field
  • Related experience in public affairs is an advantage (including internships)
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills
  • Quick learner who can take in detailed information and distil it into meaningful information
  • Proactive and capable of managing tight deadlines
  • Proficient in English
  • Driven to make a difference for people and the planet
  • Adheres to OCA’s values: we are honest, inclusive, enterprising, and have grit

We offer

  • A one-year contract with the possibility of extension
  • Travel cost compensation (public transport)
  • An international, warm, and collaborative team
  • Hybrid working model, based at the vibrant Fashion for Good Centre in Amsterdam
  • Opportunities for professional development and direct learning from industry experts
  • A chance to contribute to a mission that makes a real difference

Application process

​Please note that this position would require you to be based in Amsterdam and be able to work in the Netherlands.

​If you think that this role is for you, please send your application before May 10, 2024, to: secretariat@organiccottonaccelerator.org with the subject line: Application for Junior Public Affairs Officer.

We appreciate all applications, but only those selected for an interview will be contacted.