Role Summary

ProVeg International is a well-respected global NGO working to transform the global food system by accelerating the shift to plant-based and alternative proteins. As one of the first INGOs approved to open a representative office in mainland China in this field, ProVeg China is uniquely positioned to catalyse positive change within the country’s fast-evolving food ecosystem.

We are seeking a Strategic Program Manager to independently lead and implement high-impact programs that promote the development and commercialization of alternative proteins in China. This role will be at the forefront of shaping the future of food by proactively building and scaling cross-sector collaborations with government agencies, academic institutions, research bodies, and food industry leaders. Based on the qualification and experience of the candidate, we are open to offer a Senior Strategic Program Manager role.

Working closely with the Executive Director and our international teams, you will design and execute strategic initiatives that support China’s food innovation landscape, while strengthening ProVeg’s presence and influence across key stakeholders. This role requires a high degree of autonomy and a proven ability to deliver results with minimal supervision.

Job Details

Location: Hybrid, Shanghai
Reports to: Executive Director, ProVeg China
Working hours: Full-time

Responsibilities

● Design and deliver strategic programs that accelerate innovation and commercialization of alternative proteins in China, including plant-based, fermentation-derived, and cultivated solutions.

● Develop and maintain trusted partnerships with stakeholders from government agencies, food and nutrition research institutes, top universities, industry associations, and leading food and biotech companies.

● Identify and cultivate synergies among diverse partners to advance shared goals, foster coalition-building, and position ProVeg as a key convening force in the alt-protein ecosystem.

● Organize, lead, or represent ProVeg China at high-level conferences, industry summits, policy roundtables, and networking events.

● Collaborate with global ProVeg departments (Communications, Policy, MEL) to support program visibility, track impact, and amplify success stories.

Qualifications

● Academic background in food science, nutrition, biology, biotechnology, or a related field; a Master’s or PhD is a strong plus.

● 8+ years of professional experience in roles related to alternative proteins, sustainable food innovation, biotechnology or food industry R&D in China.

● Proven track record of working across sectors, especially with government agencies, academia, research institutions, and corporate partners.

● Prior experience in industrial associations, NGOs, or public-sector programs is highly preferred.

● Strong existing network across relevant stakeholders in China’s alt-protein and food innovation space.

● Exceptional communication and relationship-building skills, with the ability to inspire and mobilize action across diverse groups.

● Native-level Mandarin Chinese and fluent English communication (verbal and written).

● Strong strategic thinking and program management skills, including ability to manage budgets, KPIs, and adaptively solve problems.

● Experience in movement-building, public engagement, or coalition development is a plus.

● Highly independent and proactive self-starter, adaptable, and passionate about food systems change.

● Demonstrated ability to take initiative and drive programs from conception to completion with minimal oversight.

Benefits of working with us

● Flexible, trust-based working arrangements (hybrid)

● Annual compensation of ~CNY250,000 (depending on qualifications and experience of the candidates, we have flexibility to offer Senior Program Manager role at a higher compensation)

● A meaningful, mission-aligned role at the forefront of global food system transformation

● A supportive and inclusive work culture

● An annual personal development budget and access to learning resources

● Participation in a mindfulness and wellbeing program

● Opportunities to represent a pioneering organization in influential forums and networks

When?

Application deadline: open until filled
Start date: ASAP

Further information

Our Application Procedure

Your application should include a cover letter and CV. Please submit your application using our online form (https://proveg.com/jobs/) and tell us how you found this job ad. Thank you!

Our interview process includes the following steps:

Online interview with the HR team focused on culture fit.
Online interview in Mandarin with the Executive Director, ProVeg China.
Online case study including a presentation to HR and Executive Director, ProVeg China.
Final interview with Executive Director, ProVeg China.

About us

ProVeg International is a food awareness organisation working to transform the global food system by replacing 50% of animal products globally with plant-based and cultivated foods by 2040.

ProVeg engages with all relevant stakeholders to create a food system where everyone chooses delicious and healthy food that is good for all humans, animals, and our planet.

ProVeg has received the United Nations’ Momentum for Change Award and works closely with key UN food and environment agencies.

ProVeg creates global impact, with offices in 14 countries across five continents and more than 220 employees.

Diversity Statement

ProVeg is committed to equal opportunity in employment for all, regardless of migration history and nationality, religion, skin colour, gender, age, genetic information, disability, marital status, parental status, pregnancy, sexual orientation, HIV status, gender identity, or gender expression. People from the Global Majority, women, people with disabilities, members of LGBTQIA+ communities, older adults, neurodivergent people, refugees, and people living with HIV are explicitly encouraged to apply.

In 2020, ProVeg signed the Diversity Charter, a self-commitment and association dedicated to promoting a prejudice-free work environment.

In 2022, ProVeg achieved a score of 88.1% on the PRIDE Index, the LGBTIQ+ Diversity Performance Index, which is over 20 percentage points higher than the overall average of 67.9%.

Data Protection Information for Applicants :
More information about the processing of your personal data during your application at ProVeg e.V. can be found here in German and English.

(Senior) Strategic Program Manager for ProVeg China

Permanent employee, Full-time · China Remote