Biotechnology affairs

ABOUT FSII

FSII is an industry association representing leading seed and agricultural biotechnology companies, committed to promoting sustainable agricultural practices through innovation, policy advocacy, and stakeholder engagement. FSII works closely with agri-food stakeholders such as government bodies, research institutions, and international organizations to create an enabling environment for seed and agricultural biotechnology in India.

POSITION OVERVIEW

We are seeking an experienced, self-driven professional to lead our AGRI biotechnology affairs, strengthen stakeholder relationships, and drive policy advocacy efforts. Reporting to the Executive Director, this role will be instrumental in advancing the interests of our member companies and promoting science-based regulatory frameworks for agricultural biotechnology in India.

(Designation and compensation will be commensurate with the qualifications and experience of the candidate)

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Driving Biotech Policy & Regulatory Advocacy (40%)

• Drive efforts to advance FSII's biotechnology agenda and strengthen science-based policy and regulatory frameworks to secure License to Operate
• Establish and nurture relationships with industry stakeholders such as key Ministries and Departments, Regulatory authorities at Central & State levels, educational institutes, research fraternity, independent experts, and other stakeholders
• Closely monitor policy & regulatory developments and provide strategic inputs on matters relevant to FSII and its members.
• Expedite regulatory approval processes of technologies developed by our member companies to ensure timely commercialization, market access and adoption

Managing Internal Stakeholders (20%)

• Organize and facilitate regular group meetings for member companies to ensure alignment and information sharing.
• Facilitate collaborations between interested member companies and potential domestic / international technology partners and connect members with suitable collaborators and technology developers in the biotechnology domain
• Develop and maintain robust communication channels with internal stakeholders and proactively plan and manage urgent deliberations, whenever required, on key issues
• Manage expenses within the budget and resource requirements effectively.
• Provide monthly progress reports and updates, as required to the ED and FSII Leadership

Nurturing Collaboration with National, Regional and Global network partners (20%)

• Share regular updates regarding critical developments and joint initiatives and leverage the resources from these network partners for developing position papers and policy briefings
• Coordinate joint projects with network partners to promote awareness and acceptance of agricultural biotechnology in India
• Coordinate with the partners for advocacy on international treaties such as the UPOV, ITPGRFA, CBD, OECD and CODEX, COP/MOP activities, and trade priorities

Supporting Biotech related Outreach, Stakeholder Engagement & Communications (20%)

• Collaborate with third party organizations to plan and execute relevant events and conference with collaborators and network partners on GM crops and gene editing technologies
• Represent FSII at national conferences, workshops, trainings, roundtables, and other events to raise awareness and build support for crop biotechnology and relevant issues like IPR, PVP etc.,
• Prepare and deliver presentations, reports, and other communications materials to effectively convey FSII's positions and initiatives on crop biotechnology
• Develop educational materials and engagement strategies to generate positive perception of biotechnology in agriculture
• Oversee scientific accuracy of content in all biotech related communications including articles, interviews, briefs, reports, position papers, and social media posts
• Provide technical content for the organization's newsletter on a quarterly basis
• Support the Communications Manager to formulate, implement and monitor impactful media / campaign strategies to highlight the positive impact of biotechnology on Indian agriculture
• Develop compelling narratives showcasing success stories and technological advancements in agri-biotech

QUALIFICATIONS & SKILLS

• PhD degree in Agricultural Biotechnology, Plant Breeding & Genetics, or related domains
• 8-10 years of experience in agri biotechnology, policy advocacy, and regulatory affairs
• Understanding / knowledge of advanced technologies like gene editing
• Strong understanding of Indian seed and agricultural biotech policies and regulatory frameworks
• Working knowledge on various international treaties such as the UPOV, WIPO, IPR, PVP, ITPGRFA, CBD, OECD and CODEX, COP/MOP activities, and trade related issues
• Hands on experience in stakeholder (internal & external) management and excellent networking skills with proven ability to engage with government officials and policymakers at various levels
• Previous experience with industry associations a plus.
• Strong communication and presentation skills with excellent knowledge of MS Office
• Project management experience with ability to handle multiple initiatives simultaneously
• Proactive, self-motivated and works with minimal supervision demonstrating ownership and accountability

LOCATION

This position is based at New Delhi and involves moderate traveling within India and abroad.

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