The Food Packaging Association (FPA) is seeking a Chief Executive Officer to serve as the public voice and operational leader of our member-based trade organisation. This hands-on role is responsible for delivering the board-approved strategy, representing member interests, and managing all aspects of the FPA’s operations from policy development to day-to-day coordination. You will work closely with the Executive Chair, Board, members, and a small support team to ensure the association is effective, credible, and influential.

What You'll Do

Act as the main spokesperson and advocate for the FPA and its members.
Lead the development of clear, practical policy positions on issues affecting the industry.
Build and maintain strong relationships with government, regulators, and relevant industry bodies.
Ensure the FPA’s views are heard and understood when policy and regulatory decisions are being shaped.
Represent the FPA at meetings, events, and forums with government, industry, media, and other stakeholders.
Promote the association’s role, credibility, and relevance.
Keep across emerging issues, risks, and opportunities and respond in a timely, well-informed way.
Champion member interests and reflect their priorities in the association’s work.
Oversee the development and improvement of member services and benefits.
Build strong relationships with members to support engagement, satisfaction, and retention.
Support sustainable membership growth where appropriate.
Work with the FPA Board to deliver and regularly review the Strategic Plan.
Provide clear, practical advice to the FPA Board to support good decision-making.
Identify opportunities to strengthen the FPA’s impact, profile, and long-term sustainability.
Ensure the FPA meets its governance, legal, and compliance obligations.
Provide financial oversight – working closely with the FPA Treasurer, auditors and admin support to ensure resources are well managed.
Oversee day-to-day operations, recognising this is a small organisation where flexibility and pragmatism matter.
Provide leadership and support to the FPA’s sole employee and external contractors.
Foster a collaborative, respectful, and purpose-driven culture.
Support committees to work effectively and stay aligned with agreed priorities.

What We're Looking For

A confident, credible leader comfortable working in a small, member-based organisation.
Experience working with boards, senior stakeholders, and external partners.
Strong advocacy, policy, and communication skills, including confidence dealing with government and media.
Ability to build trust and maintain constructive relationships across diverse groups.
Sound financial understanding and comfort working with budgets and financial reports.
A practical, self-directed approach, with the ability to juggle priorities and follow things through.
Strong interpersonal skills and good judgment.

Nice to Have

Experience in a trade association, professional body, or other membership organisation.
Qualifications in business, management, or a related field.

Team & Environment

This role sits within a small trade organisation with a small support team and sole employee. You will report to the FPA Board through the FPA Executive Chair.