Managing Director – Cocoa Partnerships

About the role

The Managing Director for Hershey in Côte d’Ivoire will lead the company’s strategic interests in the world’s largest cocoa‑producing nation. Reporting to the Director of Cocoa Partnerships, this senior‑level position serves as Hershey’s principal representative in‑country, overseeing government engagement, program implementation and regional stakeholder alignment.

Key responsibilities

• Act as the primary liaison with national government ministries, regulatory bodies, diplomatic missions and other key public‑sector partners.
• Execute a government‑engagement strategy that supports Hershey’s Cocoa For Good initiative and sustainable sourcing goals.
• Monitor and interpret political and agricultural policy developments affecting the cocoa sector.
• Lead cross‑functional teams in Côte d’Ivoire and coordinate with senior directors on global government relations, cocoa partnerships and sustainable sourcing.
• Oversee in‑country programmatic implementation and ensure alignment with stakeholders across West Africa.

Required profile

• Extensive experience in government relations, diplomacy or public‑sector engagement, preferably within the agricultural or commodities sector.
• Proven ability to think strategically and navigate complex organizational dynamics.
• Exceptional communication and discretion, with a track record of influencing senior stakeholders.
• Strong analytical skills to synthesize political and policy information for diverse audiences.

Required skills