Communications and External Affairs Lead

The International Chewing Gum Association (ICGA) is looking for a passionate and experienced communications professional to help shape the voice of the chewing gum industry. This is a 12-month contract position. In this role, you will act as a central point of contact for all member companies and orchestrate ICGA’s unified response to media enquiries and policy developments. Working with ICGA’s Secretariat and Communications Committee, you will also help to shape and enhance the reputation of the chewing gum industry through integrated communications campaigns.

Are you a fan of chewing gum and interested in applying for this position? Send us an email with your CV at icga@gumassociation.org by April 14th, we can’t wait to meet you!

Responsibilities:

  • Develop materials in support of ICGA stakeholder engagement programme (e.g., position papers, briefings, public statements, consultation responses)
  • Act as a spokesperson for the ICGA
  • In consultation with ICGA’s Secretariat and relevant Committees, help manage ICGA’s public response in light of new scientific developments or crisis situations
  • Work with external agencies to monitor latest media and policy developments and develop an appropriate response.
  • Develop and execute proactive campaigns to communicate and champion the value of the global chewing gum industry
  • Collect input and ensure alignment between the ICGA secretariat, supporting agencies, and members
  • Act as a strategic advisor to ICGA Communications Committee

 

Essential Criteria

The ICGA is looking for an experienced professional with:

  • Bachelor’s degree in communications, public relations or journalism
  • Extensive experience (10+ years) in media relations, external communications & public affairs
  • Experience acting as a spokesperson for press enquiries
  • Proven experience working with or in a trade or sectoral association
  • Available for a freelance contract of 24 hours per week, for a period of 12 months with possibility to extend
  • English (C2 / fluent written and verbal)
  • Based in or near Brussels, Belgium

Desirable Criteria

  • Experience working in the food and beverages sector
  • Understanding of national/ EU policy development processes
  • Additional languages including French and/or Dutch are beneficial
  • Familiarity with scientific terms and concepts a plus

About ICGA

As the voice of the global chewing gum and chewing gum base industry, ICGA’s mission is to ensure that all chewing gum and gum base products are safe, wholesome and fulfil the highest standards of quality wherever they are manufactured or sold and to provide a strong, unified voice for the chewing gum industry. We:

  • Represent members in global, regional, and national forums.
  • Support science-based regulation that reflects the unique qualities of chewing gum.
  • Ensure products are safe and responsibly marketed.
  • Defend the category as a distinct food type that contributes to oral health and overall wellbeing.

Our work is rooted in integrity, evidence, and a commitment to sustainable growth for the industry.