Vice President of Internal/External Affairs

About the role

Responsibilities: Develop and execute a state and federal government relations strategy; manage relationships with the CA legislature, county/city officials, external stakeholders, and relevant regulatory bodies Represent the company in industry trade associations (e.g., food processing, agriculture, and manufacturing coalitions) Lead community and public affairs across the five divisions' operating footprints — critical in a region where water access, labor, and land use are politically sensitive Monitor and analyze legislative and regulatory developments (food safety, environmental, labor/immigration, trade policy) and translate them into business risk/opportunity briefings for the C-suite Manage crisis communications and reputational risk in coordination with Corporate Communications/PR Collaborate and provide strategic recommendations on corporate philanthropy, community investment, and external messaging Build coalitions with local chambers of commerce, economic development groups, and agricultural associations Represent the company on relevant boards/commissions as needed Manage external and internal team and department budget, as applicable. Minimum: 10–12+ years in government relations, public affairs, or regulatory roles, ideally within food/beverage, agriculture, or CPG manufacturing Established relationships with California state officials and/or the federal delegation; Central Valley/Sacramento network a strong plus Experience navigating multi-division or multi-plant manufacturing operations Bachelor's degree required; advanced degree (public policy, law, MBA) preferred Strong executive presence; experience briefing boards and the C-suite