Regional Manager – Regulatory & Public Affairs (Africa)

About the role

EWS is expanding across Africa and seeks a dynamic Regional Manager to lead regulatory and public affairs. The role shapes regional regulatory strategy, ensures compliance, and supports market access for vegetable seed products.

Key responsibilities

• Develop and implement a comprehensive regional regulatory and public affairs strategy aligned with business goals.
• Monitor seed‑related legislation, phytosanitary requirements, import/export rules, plant variety protection and ABS across African markets.
• Provide guidance to country teams, supply chain, breeding, production and legal functions on regulatory risks and opportunities.
• Lead stakeholder engagement with governments, regional bodies (EAC, COMESA), seed associations, NGOs and international organisations.
• Advocate for science‑based, transparent policies and represent EWS in regional forums and board positions.
• Maintain a regulatory intelligence system to track changes, assess business impact and recommend mitigation actions.

Required profile

• Bachelor’s degree in Agriculture, Plant Science, Biotechnology or related field (post‑graduate degree advantageous).
• 5–8 years experience in regulatory affairs, policy making, stakeholder management or public affairs within the seed, agriculture or biotechnology sector, preferably across multiple African countries.
• Strong understanding of African seed industry processes including breeding, variety registration, certification and international seed movement.