Public Affairs Partner

At IKEA, we do things a little different. We think differently, act differently, and work differently as well. We like to break things. Like rules. And then make things. Like music-playing lamps. And beds disguised as sofas. Even plantballs that help us look after our planet. It’s all part of our vision - to create a better everyday life for the many. And it’s been keeping our co-workers going for over 75 years. By 2030, we hope to help millions more look forward to going home. Maybe you can help us?

About the area

Inter IKEA Group is the group of companies that connects IKEA franchisees with range development and suppliers, and aligns the overall IKEA strategic direction. All to create a better everyday life for the many people.

The Public Affairs team is an Area of Expertise in Communication, assigned to support IKEA’s strategic direction by engaging on key policy trends that impact the business and establishing long-term trusted relationships with policymakers and opinion builders. Together we contribute to the success of IKEA and share responsibility for the franchise offer.

About the job

For this role, we are looking for someone with 5+ years of experience in the field of public affairs with strong values-based leadership, integrity and interest in growth and development.

In this role, you will:

• Contribute to priority public affairs projects in the areas of higher business impact steering from EU policy making, such as product development (e.g. product requirements, ecodesign, packaging), supply (materials’ sourcing, supply chain operations, transport and energy), trade (market access, free trade agreements and customs) and sustainability (circularity including waste rules, climate, biodiversity , Environmental, Social and Governance policies) as identified by the business.
• Help identify and develop trusted relationships with key policy-makers, regulators, business and other key stakeholders
• Represent Inter IKEA Group in relevant government outreach activities, as well as in external forums such as business associations, committees and working groups
• Align and establish collaboration with and between different IKEA entities and create consensus among internal stakeholders and global franchisees, ensuring a ‘one IKEA’ voice
• Work in close partnership with the Public Affairs Leader (Head of EU Affairs) to determine key regulatory and advocacy needs at EU level and, when relevant, globally.

About you

Building connections is a natural part of who you are and as a result, you are very adept at growing trusted relationships and long-term partnerships with stakeholders at all levels.

You have strong experience in leading projects, with an understanding of how public affairs enables change and contributes to business development. You have a proven track record in delivering results through others, making complex tasks and processes understood and actionable.

You are recognised for well-developed strategic and analytical skills. At the same time, you know how to roll up your sleeves and get things done. As a person you see opportunity where others see only challenges and you work to solve problems as they arise.

We see a collaborative spirit, someone who is willing to grow, develop and learn together with the team. You should also feel as confident being part of a team, supporting colleagues across Inter IKEA Group, as you feel working by yourself.

Above all, you are a true role model when it comes to leading by example – an ambassador of the IKEA values, through and through.

To be successful in this role, the following knowledge, skills and experiences would be valuable:

• Strong experience and knowledge in public affairs in policy areas such as product rules, supply chains, trade and/or sustainability.
• Solid project management skills connected to regulatory and advocacy initiative at EU level. Experience from other jurisdictions is welcome.
• Experience in developing engagement plans and running advocacy initiatives
• Proven track record in consensus building and growing networks
• Strong time management skills with ability to balance multiple projects at once  
• Analytic skills and ability to assess the business impact of policy initiatives
• Excellent communication skills such as the ability to simplify complex topics by making them understood by different target groups (both internally and externally)
• Proactive mindset with a motivation to influence, challenge and improve positioning externally
• Diplomatic, initiative-driven and adaptable with high integrity and team spirit 
• Fluent in spoken and written English

This role is full-time (40-hours per week) and is based in Brussels, Belgium. This role sits in the Communication team and reports to the Public Affairs Manager. If you have questions about the recruitment process, please connect with the recruiter, Wayne van Tonder (wayne.van.tonder@inter.ikea.com).

Please note that the role is based in Brussels but we coordinate the employment contract through our headquarters located in Delft, the Netherlands.

At IKEA, we are looking for people who believe everyone deserves a seat at the table. You’re welcome no matter where you come from, what you believe, and what you look like. We don’t even care how you have furnished your home. We’re interested in you simply because you’re you. Even if your experience doesn’t align perfectly with every qualification in the job description, we encourage you to apply anyway. We believe that people’s different perspectives, backgrounds, and personalities make us better at understanding our customers dreams and needs. At IKEA, we’re all on the same project.

If you have a special need that requires accommodation in the recruitment process, just let us know.

Interested? Submit your CV, in English, by the 2nd of June 2025.