Government and Public Affairs Manager 

Based in Budapest 

Purpose of the role

The Government and Public Affairs Manager develops and manages government relations, supports policy development, and builds strong connections with key industry groups, institutions, and government officials. The role contributes and executes strategic lobbying activities aligned with the Company's priorities. The Government and Public Affairs Manager is motivated to help shape the future of the low-cost model and defend the Group's interests in a fast-changing regulatory and policy environment.  

Responsibilities

• Maintain effective relationships with public sector representatives, regulatory bodies, institutions, and relevant stakeholder groups, with a primary focus on Italy and regular engagement across additional priority markets. 
• Represent the Company's interests through direct interactions with public officials, regulatory bodies, institutions, ensuring strong in-market presence in Italy while supporting advocacy efforts in other countries are required.
• Implement lobbying activities that aligned with the Company's objectives and the low-cost business model, primarily in Italy, with flexibility to support other jurisdictions.
• Monitor draft legislation, assess potential impacts, and report key developments to management. 
• Prepare internal briefings and forward-looking analyses on public policy developments, providing practical advice and support to internal stakeholders. 
• Draft submissions to governments, institutions, and regulatory consultations in coordination with management. 
• Develop position papers and presentations to support management engagement with key stakeholders. 
• Maintain a strong and positive presence among government officials, civil servants, and parliamentarians to promote the low-cost business model. 
• Participate actively in industry events and stakeholder forums, representing the Company, with a high degree of travel expected, primarily to Italy and regulary to other relevant markets. 

Experience

3-5+ years of professional experience with 2+ years’ experience, including at least 2 years in Public/Government Affairs, Legal, Commercial, or Communications  within a multinational company or in the public sector 

Hard skills

Solid knowledge of the aviation sector 

Education

Bachelor’s or Master’s degree preferably in Economics, International Affairs, International Law, or Communications 

Language

• Fluency in professional English (both spoken and written) 
• Native or near-native (full professional) proficieny in Italian (both spoken and written)

Skills and competencies

• Sound business judgment and analytical skills combined with high ethical standards 
• Excellent negotiating, influencing, and diplomatic skills 
• Outstanding verbal, written, and interpersonal communication skills 
• Strong presentation and organizational skills, with the ability to translate complex topics into clear, concise materials
• Experience working in cross-cultural environments and managing projects and relationships across multiple countries 
• Ability to effectively engage with government officials and public authorities
• Solid project management skills 
• High degree of independence and accountability
• Willingness and ability to travel frequently (including weekly travel), primarily within Italy and across other relevant markets