Director of Public Affairs

Public Affairs Director

Mars Veterinary Health (MVH) Europe is a family of leading veterinary care providers committed to creating a better world for pets. Our network includes trusted brands such as AniCura and Linnaeus, operating over 500 animal hospitals and clinics across 17 European countries. Together, our teams deliver high-quality, modern veterinary care for companion animals, ensuring peace of mind for pet owners through excellent access and patient safety.

AniCura, our largest brand in Europe, provides care to over three million patients each year through 12,500 dedicated professionals. Linnaeus, operating primarily in the UK and Ireland, is home to over 6,000 Associates empowered to deliver exceptional care through a culture of collaboration, clinical excellence, and continuous development.

At MVH Europe, we prioritize a culture of accountability, inclusion, and wellbeing. We believe our purpose - to make A BETTER WORLD FOR PETS - starts with building a better world for our people.

Role Overview

The Public Affairs Director is responsible for shaping and managing the organisation's relationships with key external stakeholders, including decision making bodies such as the EU, government agencies, veterinary associations, and industry regulators. The role focuses on building and maintaining MVH Europe's reputation, influencing public policy issues, and ensuring alignment with corporate values.

Key Responsibilities Develop and Execute Public Affairs Strategies

• Lead the development and implementation of public affairs strategies to effectively manage relationships with government bodies, regulatory agencies, and other external stakeholders in alignment with MVH Europe's strategic objectives.
• Support policy development and alignment across the organisation to define MVH's public policy positions in Europe.
• Establish and manage an advocacy program, including selection and oversight of external consultants to advance key public affairs priorities.

Manage Stakeholder Relationships

• Build and maintain strong relationships with key stakeholders such as government entities, regulatory authorities, NGOs, and veterinary associations (e.g., FVE, EBVS, FECAVA, RCVS).
• Advocate for MVH Europe's policy interests and maintain a positive reputation across the veterinary and healthcare ecosystem.

Monitor Public Policy & Regulatory Issues

• Lead issue mapping and monitor emerging policy trends and regulatory developments impacting the organization.
• Provide timely analysis and updates to senior leadership and internal partners (Medical, Legal, Operations, Global CA/PA teams).

Public Affairs Communication

• Develop and deliver clear, consistent, and impactful public affairs communications to position MVH Europe as a trusted and influential voice in the veterinary industry.
• Collaborate with Corporate Affairs, Communications, and Medical teams to ensure alignment in external messaging and reputation management.

Summary of the Role

• Job Title: Public Affairs Director
• Contract: Full time
• Languages: Fluency in English (additional European languages are a plus)

Education & Professional Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Political Science, Communications, Public Affairs, or a related field.
• Master's degree in Public Policy or equivalent is desirable.

Knowledge / Experience

• Minimum of 10 years experience in public affairs, government relations, or policy advocacy within a complex, multinational, or regulated environment.
• Proven understanding of EU level policy, advocacy, and stakeholder engagement.
• Excellent written and verbal communication, negotiation, and influencing skills.
• Experience engaging with senior level policymakers and representing organisational interests in complex external environments.
• Strategic Mindset: Anticipates future trends and translates them into actionable strategies that drive long term success.
• Global Perspective: Understands global dynamics, diverse cultures, and external factors to make informed, inclusive decisions.
• Manages Ambiguity: Navigates uncertainty with confidence, making clear decisions even when information is incomplete.
• Collaborates: Builds strong partnerships and works effectively across boundaries to achieve shared goals.
• Courage: Speaks up, takes bold actions, and challenges the status quo with integrity and conviction.

Our Offer

• Join a purpose driven company, where we're striving to shape the future of veterinary care, together.
• An industry competitive salary and benefits package.
• A stimulating work environment with good opportunities for personal development.
• Freedom to take responsibility and the opportunity to influence.
• Learning and development opportunities.
• The opportunity to cuddle our beloved 4 legged friends in our offices.
• We are always open for a conversation to discuss your individual needs.

Interested?

Please contact Lekya Kanamarlapudi, Group Corporate Recruitment Partner who is happy to tell you more about this opportunity and the recruitment process. Or apply by submitting your resume through clicking the apply button below.

MVHE is an equal opportunity employer and welcomes applications from candidates with diverse backgrounds.

Seniority level: Director Employment type: Full time Job function: Public Relations Industries: Veterinary Services