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.
Benefits & Compensation
- This is a part-time role requiring approximately 12 full days per month.
- The position is home-based.
Work Mode
This is a fully remote position.
The Food Packaging Association is an equal opportunity employer.
