International Engagement Manager

The current and future success of the New Zealand apple and pear industry is global in nature. We sell our apples and pears to over 80 countries around the world. We still have markets to open. We still have tariffs to remove. We rely heavily on offshore labour to harvest the majority of our fruit. The regulatory environment and/or private standards in export markets demand, inform and guide New Zealand production processes.

In this context, we must understand, engage and build bridges with international stakeholders across the business. We need to have our finger on the pulse of international developments.

New Zealand Apples & Pears (NZAPI) is looking for a proactive and talented International Engagement Manager to provide a positive return on investment for our member-growers over the short, medium and long term.

About the Role

The International Engagement Manager is a member of the Executive Team of NZAPI. This position works collaboratively with the executive team, NZAPI members, and government agencies, to co-design and implement an International Engagement strategy and programme to connect ideas, people, knowledge and products from offshore into the New Zealand apples and pears eco-system. The role is also responsible for delivery of the traditional aspects of trade policy.

Some other key responsibilities will include –

• Working closely with Prevar to understand and support efforts to develop a plan for how industry intellectual property collaboration with Northern Hemisphere partners can be leveraged globally to further assist trade and market access objectives.
• Support the Global Sustainability Advisor and Career Progression Manager to advance planning for international engagement of Global Research Alliance climate change mitigation and adaptation project in conjunction with MPI.
• Working with industry, government and universities to support the design and delivery of an International Horticulture Immersion Programme (IHIP) into key target markets for a cohort of young leaders in the horticulture industry to grow international
• Build and maintain a detailed understanding of industry trade policy expectations through contact with orchards and growers, consultants and other stakeholders.

About You

We’re looking for someone who loves stakeholder engagement and building trusted connections, both locally and internationally; has a passion for the New Zealand primary sector and a solutions focused attitude. Our new team member will enjoy a bit of ‘banter’, be able to keep smiling when the pressure is on and have the personality to get on with a range of people.

Important to this role:

• Relevant tertiary degree – International Relations, Economics, Business, Politics, Science.
• International experience, including direct experience functioning in a foreign language environment.
• Track record of first-class communication and stakeholder engagement capability that delivers value and results.
• Good working understanding of cross-cultural issues.
• Relevant industry and/or government experience is desirable.
• International development and/or education experience useful.

NZAPI offers a collaborative and progressive workplace environment, a competitive remuneration and benefits package and flexible working arrangements. Please note you will be required to undertake regular national and international travel for this position, including trips sometimes up to 1 week in duration.

This role can be based anywhere in New Zealand, but the strong preference is for Hawke’s Bay or Wellington.

For a confidential initial discussion about the position please contact Adam Caccioppoli ([email protected] or 0223789057) at Baker Tilly Staples Rodway Recruitment, who is managing this process on behalf of NZAPI, otherwise please apply today. 

Applications Close: 5pm Monday 11th July 2022

We may commence contacting and interviewing candidates prior to the closing date, so please apply without delay.