National Wooden Pallet & Container Association (NWPCA) Is Hiring A Senior Director for Mexico and Latin America

Exciting Leadership Opportunity: Senior Director for Mexico & Latin America at NWPCA

The National Wooden Pallet & Container Association (NWPCA) is seeking a dynamic, bilingual leader to guide its expanding Chapter in Latin America, fostering industry growth and collaboration across the region.

About NWPCA

NWPCA is the world’s largest organization for wood packaging professionals, representing over 800 companies across 40 countries. Since launching its Mexico and Latin American Chapter in 2022, it has tripled its membership and is poised for further regional growth. The Senior Director will be instrumental in amplifying the Chapter’s influence, advocating for Spanish-speaking members, and advancing the industry’s innovation and sustainability efforts.

Position Overview

This remote-based leadership role requires fluency in Spanish and English, with responsibilities including overseeing daily operations, executing strategic initiatives, and serving as the primary liaison with the Chapter Board of Directors. The position involves frequent travel (~30%) throughout Latin America and the Caribbean, engaging with diverse industry stakeholders.

Key Responsibilities

1. Strategic and Operational Leadership

• Lead NWPCA’s activities in Mexico and Latin America, aligning initiatives with the organization’s mission, vision, and core values.
• Act as the main liaison with the Capítulo Board of Directors to shape regional strategies and achieve multi-year goals.
• Oversee the implementation of the Capítulo Work Plan, focusing on:
  • Enhancing global recognition of the Chapter as the unifying voice in Spanish-speaking countries.
  • Growing regional presence and influence in trade and regulatory discussions.

2. Events, Conferences, and Education

• Plan and execute the Annual Capítulo Conference to promote the Chapter and industry sector.
• Organize 2–3 regional in-person meetings to foster dialogue and networking.
• Coordinate annual PDS (Pallet Design SystemTM) training courses in Spanish and host regional workshops/webinars.
• Promote education on industry standards, innovation, and sustainability through digital and in-person platforms.
• Lead educational missions to Latin American countries outside Mexico, supported by the USDA RAPP grant.

3. Membership Engagement & Development

• Serve as the primary contact for Spanish-speaking members, enhancing member support and value.
• Develop strategies for recruitment and retention across Latin America.
• Implement a mentorship program to support new members and foster knowledge sharing.
• Build a vibrant community allowing members to share experiences and amplify their collective voice.

4. Communications & Content Strategy

• Lead Spanish-language communication efforts, including:
  • Bi-monthly Boletín newsletter for regional stakeholders.
  • Monthly Circular email updates for Capítulo members.
  • Management of a Spanish-language LinkedIn page for engagement.
  • Maintaining and updating the Spanish website with relevant content.
• Create educational, advocacy, and promotional materials in Spanish to enhance industry understanding and member impact.
• Oversee content creation and outreach for the Tribalo Communications platform as part of the RAPP grant.

5. Interdepartmental Collaboration & Advocacy

• Coordinate with internal teams (Operations, Government Affairs, Science & Tech, Foundation) to provide culturally and linguistically appropriate resources.
• Deliver Spanish-language materials such as invitations, press releases, guides, and PDS documents.
• Communicate Capítulo priorities during key NWPCA events, including the Annual Leadership Conference, Fall Plant Tour, and Fly-In.
• Establish strategic relationships with governmental and non-governmental organizations to elevate the Chapter’s profile and advocacy efforts.

Measures of Success

By the end of the first year, the successful candidate will aim to:

• Member Engagement: Maintain and deepen relationships, providing high-quality service and fostering new connections.
• Educational Impact: Increase awareness and adoption of the Pallet Design SystemTM (PDS).
• Membership Growth: Implement strategies to expand the Chapter’s membership across Latin America.

Required Qualifications

• Fluency in Spanish and English, with a strong understanding of Latin American business culture and practices.
• Minimum of five years’ professional experience focused on Mexico or Latin America.
• Effective public speaking skills.
• Strategic mindset paired with a hands-on, results-oriented approach.
• Proven success in managing complex projects with budgets.
• Strong background in customer engagement, ideally within Latin American markets.
• Bilingual writing skills suited for reports, presentations, and social media.
• Experience in event planning and management.
• Familiarity with digital education tools and online learning platforms.
• Proficiency in database and membership management systems.
• Ability to lead remote, cross-functional teams.
• Willingness to travel extensively throughout Latin America, at least 30% of the time.