Public Affair Officer Jobs in Westminster, Greater London

The Role

This is a rare opportunity to be at the front line of human rights research and advocacy, working for a specialist organisation with a long track record in promoting the right to freedom of religion or belief (FoRB).

You will undertake research, investigations, monitoring, report-writing and advocacy on freedom of religion and human rights in Myanmar/Burma and Indonesia.

Key responsibilities (full responsibilities listed in the application pack):

• To plan, organise and undertake research, monitoring and reporting on freedom of religion or belief and related human rights issues in Myanmar/Burma and Indonesia , through regular fact-finding assignments, when and where security conditions allow, meetings with key stakeholders and the development of reliable in-country and external partnerships and collaboration.
• To produce materials, including briefings, reports, documenting and analysing the situation of freedom of religion or belief and human rights in the agreed countries, as well as advocacy recommendations.
• To develop and implement, with oversight from the Asia Team Leader and in close consultation with other key members of staff , an effective and innovative advocacy strategy for the agreed countries, taking into account the regional perspective.
• To undertake advocacy with a focus at local (when possible) and regional levels, including ASEAN, and, in consultation with the Asia Team Leader, work with CSW’s Public Affairs Team to inform advocacy initiatives in the UK, EU, US and with other governments, the United Nations and other forums.
• To organise, as appropriate, advocacy visits for delegations from or in relation to the agreed countries.

CSW is a human rights organisation specialising in freedom of religion or belief, and as Christians we stand with everyone facing injustice because of their religion or belief. 

The Person

A committed Christian with a university degree and a strong commitment to human rights and justice, you will have excellent communication and organisational skills, and the ability to take the initiative and to work well under pressure.

Essential criteria (full criteria listed in the application pack):

· Knowledge and experience of the East Asia region.

· In-depth knowledge and experience of issues relating to freedom of religion or belief in Myanmar/Burma and Indonesia 

· Proven research skills, and good understanding of basic methodologies for human rights research.

· Excellent communication skills, both written and oral.

· Excellent attention to detail and commitment to accuracy.

· If based in the UK you must have the right to reside and work in the United Kingdom

CSW Benefits

We offer flexible working, your birthday off, pension with 6% employer contribution.

Closing date for full applications: Noon Wednesday 29 May 2024.

Interviews: Shortlisted applicants will be invited for interview on Wednesday 5 or Thursday 6 June 2024.  The interviews will take place online. 

Age UK is currently looking for a Senior Public Affairs Officer to take forward our Public Affairs work, influencing and changing public policy, to improve the lives of older people.

You will design and deliver public affairs strategies which grow Age UK's profile in Westminster and Whitehall and build support for our policy and campaigning priorities. Highly attuned to the political environment, you will identify key political targets, building new and deepening existing relationships.

You will line manage the Public Affairs Officer and oversee public affairs work done by the team's Support Officer.

For more information about the role, please review the job description below and apply to join our collaborative and passionate External Affairs team.

This role is offered on a Hybrid / London contract and there is a requirement to attend team meetings once a week in the office. There will also be occasional travel to support at events across the country.

Age UK Internal Job Grade - 6L

Must haves:

* Excellent knowledge and understanding of local and national government structures, the UK Parliament and our political, policy and campaigning context, and experience of influencing them.
* Substantial experience of working in a political campaigning/public affairs environment, developing influential relationships with Parliamentarians and other national organisations.
* Strong track record of influencing on social policy issues.
* Experience of project-managing complex influencing activities, leading project teams and managing workloads.
* Excellent all round communication skills, particularly the ability to communicate clearly and concisely to a range of audiences.
* Experience of writing high quality briefings, articles and other materials to communicate complex policy and political issues to stakeholder audiences.
* Experience of running effective events for political audiences.
* Experience of representing an organisation to political audiences and other national stakeholders.
* Experience of working in coalition and partnership with other organisations.
* Experience of engaging with senior stakeholders including Parliamentarians.
* An understanding of how to work in a politically balanced way.
* Knowledge and understanding of what equal opportunities means in relation to this post and the ability to incorporate equality practices into all aspects of the work.
* Experience of working collaboratively with others to achieve results.
* Strong interest in UK politics and passion for social justice.

Great to haves:
* Understanding of policy issues affecting older people.
* Experience of influencing change from a voluntary sector perspective.
* Experience of working in a political environment.

What we offer in return

• Competitive salary, 26 days annual leave + bank holidays + annual leave purchase scheme
• Excellent pension scheme, life assurance, health cashback plan and EAP
• Car Benefit Scheme, Cycle to Work Scheme and Season Ticket Loan
• Techscheme - buy any tech from Apple or Currys, up to £1000, and spread the cost over 12 months, interest free
• Blue Light Card Scheme
• You Did It Awards - recognition awards from £100-250.

Additional Information

Must be able to travel easily into central London to attend meetings, sometimes at short notice. Required to be in the London office at least one day a week.

There is an occasional requirement to travel and stay overnight (e.g. party conferences); some out of hours working (e.g. occasional evening Parliamentary events).

All CVs will be anonymised by our recruitment system when you apply for a role at Age UK. Please note that our system is unable to anonymise cover letters, and we would therefore ask that to support the work we are doing on making our recruitment selection process fairer and more unbiased, that you remove any personal information from your cover letter/supporting statement, including your name before uploading this. All equalities monitoring information is also anonymised and not shared with the hiring panel. Your name and address will only be known to us once you are invited for an interview.

Age UK is an Equal Opportunities employer and positively encourages applications from suitably qualified and eligible candidates, regardless of age, sex, race, disability, sexual orientation, gender reassignment, religion or belief, marital/civil partnership status, or pregnancy and maternity. We guarantee an interview to disabled candidates who meet the minimum criteria under the Disability Confident Scheme. Please note that on occasion, due to high numbers of applications, Age UK reserves the right to limit the overall number of interviews offered, and therefore, it may not always be practicable or appropriate to interview all disabled people that meet the minimum criteria for the job.

Age UK is committed to safeguarding adults at risk, and children, from abuse and neglect. We expect everyone who works with us to share this commitment.

Early application is encouraged as we will review applications throughout the advertising period and reserve the right to close the advert at any time.

Age UK politely requests no contact from recruitment agencies or media sales. We do not accept speculative CVs from recruitment agencies nor accept the fees associated with them.

Endometriosis impacts the physical and mental health of 10% of women and those assigned female at birth, from puberty to menopause - although the impact can be felt for life. Yet it’s a disease most people have never heard of, do not understand and that has no cure. It costs the UK economy around £8.2 billion every year in healthcare costs, loss of work and treatments and yet it isn’t recognised by most employers. As the UK’s leading charity for all those affected by endometriosis, we’re determined to change this and ensure that everyone gets prompt diagnosis and the best treatment and support.

We’ve big ambitions in our strategy, focused on better supporting those with endometriosis, driving down diagnosis times, campaigning for improved treatments and access to services, raising awareness, and leveraging more money into research. We place people with endometriosis at the heart of all we do.  If we get our work right, we really can make a difference to the 1.5 million women and those assigned female at birth with endometriosis in the UK – and all those diagnosed in the future.

This will be a busy, varied and important role working closely with the Head of Campaigns and Communications to identify opportunities to influence external policy to better support and represent the needs of those with endometriosis. You will be working as part of a passionate team with a strong commitment to achieving change to help those with living with endometriosis. You’ll have a sound knowledge of the UK political landscape and how to influence it and will play an important role in developing our campaigns. This is an exciting opportunity to help drive forward Endometriosis UK’s strategy and boost our impact for the benefit of everyone affected by endometriosis. I hope you’ll consider joining us so we can, together, do even more.

The closing date for applications is 5pm on Monday 20th May and interviews will take place at our Office in London Bridge on Monday 3rd and Tuesday 4th June. 

Do you have experience of working in the UK Parliament, in an in-house public affairs team or within a public affairs consultancy? Are you looking to drive change to help tackle one of the UK’s biggest killers?

If so, you may be the Public Affairs Officer we’re looking for!

About the role

Our Policy and Public Affairs team exists to build support amongst key decision makers so that we can fund lifesaving research into heart disease. We develop the British Heart Foundation’s (BHF) position, engaging and influencing stakeholders to help ensure the UK remains a global leader in heart and circulatory research while advocating for the 7.6 million people living with heart and circulatory diseases across the UK.

We have an exciting opportunity for a Public Affairs Officer to join our award winning and high impact team during a very exciting time in politics. You’ll be engaging with Parliamentarians to promote our work at Westminster and in their individual constituencies, while proactively spotting opportunities to build relationships and advance the interests of BHF. You’ll deliver a programme of activity and engagement that contributes to our wider Hearts Need More campaign, which aims to make heart and circulatory diseases a key priority for political parties ahead of the next general election.

Working arrangements

This is a blended role, where your work will be dual located between your home and our London office. 

At BHF we believe in the power of being together, so our colleagues on blended contracts can expect to spend some time in their office, at least one day each week, on average.  The use of our office spaces is driven in part by your role and the activities you need to do. This may vary from time to time, so you will need to work in a flexible way to unlock your best work for our cause. 

Need more help balancing your work and home life? Talk to us about what flexibility is available at the application or interview stage.

About you

With an interest in, and understanding of the external political environment, you'll have a good understanding of the workings of the UK Government and parliamentary procedure. You'll have an understanding of the role of BHF and other health and medical research charities in general, and particularly in the political arena.

You'll have experience of working in the UK Parliament or within a public affairs in-house team or consultancy, and have excellent communication skills. Having previously engaged with political stakeholders, you'll be able to build strong relationships with key internal and external colleagues.

With a proven ability to write clearly, concisely and persuasively for political audiences in a variety of formats, you’ll be able to summarise complex information swiftly and accurately for a variety of audiences. You'll also have strong organisational skills, including experience of coordinating events.

This is an opportunity to make a profound impact for our patients, their families, and our supporters at an exciting time in the electoral cycle.

About us

We value and respect every individual’s unique contribution, celebrate diversity, and make inclusion part of what we do every day. 

Our Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) Strategy, Igniting Change, along with our internal EDI group, Kaleidoscope, and a growing number of employee network groups (our Affinity Groups), help us create an environment where all our colleagues and volunteers can succeed.

Interview process

Interviews will be held virtually via MS Teams during week commencing 20th May 2024

How to apply 

It’s quick and easy to apply for a role at the BHF. Just click on the apply button below. All you’ll need is an up to date CV and a supporting statement, outlining your interest in the role and how you meet the role’s criteria.

Early application is encouraged as we will review applications throughout the advertising period and reserve the right to close the advert early.

As part of our commitment to be an inclusive employer and ensure fairness and consistency in selecting the best candidate for this role, the BHF will use anonymous CV software as part of the application journey.

Should you need any adjustments to the recruitment process, at either application or interview, please contact us.

Every childhood is worth fighting for. This is our belief. It drives us. 
 
It drives our award-winning Policy and Public Affairs team to shape law, policy and practice to ensure children can grow up free from abuse and neglect.
 
To help us achieve even more for children, we are recruiting six Policy and Public Affairs Officers across the UK. We are looking for: 

• 1 x Policy and Public Affairs Officer based in Northern Ireland
• 1 x Policy and Public Affairs Officer based in Scotland
• 1 x Policy and Public Affairs Officer based in Wales
• 3 x Policy and Public Affairs Officers based in England, with one focused on online safety 

These will be key roles in a high-performing team with an inclusive, supportive and empowering team dynamic. Post-holders will support the delivery of a range of policy-focused projects both within their respective nation policy team, and across our UK-wide team. 
 
The successful candidates will be: 

• committed to our mission to prevent child abuse; 
• able to demonstrate good policy development and policy research skills; 
• a strong communicator and effective network builder; and 
• have experience of influencing policy change in England/Northern Ireland/Scotland/Wales, as the specific role requires. 

 Join us and you'll become part of a team that cares about the work they do and the people they work with. You'll discover opportunities to grow, along with challenges and a shared purpose that'll bring the best out in you. And you'll get to find your own way to make a difference that means more, and that impacts millions of young lives.

Position

The Mental Health Foundation is recruiting for a Policy & Public Affairs Officer to support our Policy Team in the London office.

Deadline: Monday 13 May, 9.00 am.

Location: London

Salary: Starting salary £31,350 rising to £35,381 plus £3,285 London Weighting.

Hours: Full-time (35 hours per week). We are currently trialling a 32-hour week until April 2025 on the same pay & conditions.

Contract type: Permanent

This exciting Policy & Public Affairs Officer role will lead on developing and influencing specific policy priorities identified by the Foundation as areas where change is most needed to improve the population’s mental health. Initially, the policy area of focus for this role will be the mental health of asylum seekers and refugees.

What does the role involve?

• Maintain up-to-date knowledge of policy and legislative developments affecting public mental health and particular priority policy topics for the Foundation.
• Carry out background research, developing influencing plans, responding to government consultations and providing briefings for politicians and other external stakeholders.
• Ensure the Foundation’s stakeholders, including people with lived experience of mental ill health, are involved in development of policy work and strategy.

Requirements

What skills, knowledge and experience are we looking for?

• In-depth knowledge of policy development systems and processes in the UK.
• Excellent writing skills, including the ability to write precisely and quickly for a range of audiences.
• Ability to critically analyse complex legislative, policy and research documents.
• Ability to work within and across teams to deliver results. This includes our policy, research, communications, fundraising and programmes teams.

Safeguarding is Everyone’s business: the Mental Health Foundation is committed to safeguarding and promoting the wellbeing of all its beneficiaries, those who surround them, its staff, volunteers, and anyone else who comes into contact with its services and expects all trustees, staff, and volunteers to share this commitment. The successful applicant will be subject to appropriate vetting procedures (proof of eligibility to work in the UK, proof of residency and satisfactory employment screening, including a Disclosure check and two most recent references) along with 3-year renewals of Disclosure checks. We are unable to provide sponsorship for this post; you must be able to demonstrate your eligibility to work in the UK.

Other information

If you think your skills match and you’d like to be part of a dynamic and growing organisation, please complete and submit your application below. Please ensure you attach an up to date CV and statement of suitability answering all points of the person specification. Applications will close at 9.00 am on Monday 13 May and we are unable to accept late applications. Interviews are planned for the 23 and 24 May. There will be a short written test on the day of the interview.

We believe our people should represent the communities, organisations and individuals we work with. Diversity and inclusion is a strategic priority for us as an employer and mental health charity, and we are proud to be signatories of the Business in the Community Race at Work Charter and the Disability Confident Committed Scheme. Applications from under-represented sections of the community are actively encouraged.

If you have a disability, require any additional support or have any questions regarding the role, please contact us. We make reasonable adjustments throughout the recruitment process and during employment. Disabled candidates who meet all the essential person specification criteria will be offered an interview. Therefore, please do ensure you tick the relevant box on the application form and clearly indicate in your application/covering letter if you consider yourself to meet the requirements of the Equality Act 2010/Disability Discrimination Act 1995.

We are currently operating mostly digital recruitment (including interviews via video conferencing). We have moved to a hybrid working model of a minimum of 2 days per week in the office and the rest working from home.

We look forward to hearing from you!

Job Title: Senior Policy and Public Affairs Officer

Reports to: Policy Manager

Line reports: None

Contract terms: Full time

Salary: £36,065-£37,013

Location: London-based, with hybrid working

The Royal College of Ophthalmologists is a membership organisation and the voice of the profession, with over 4,000 members in the UK and overseas. Our role is to champion the specialty, set standards of training and practice, and influence change to make a difference to the lives of patients with eye conditions.

Job purpose

Part of the Communications and Engagement department, the Senior Policy and Public Affairs Officer is responsible for developing and implementing strategic policy initiatives and engaging with key stakeholders to advance our policy priorities across the four UK nations. Working with colleagues, members and external stakeholders, you will deliver high quality analysis and research, produce evidence-based policy positions and outputs, and employ effective public affairs approaches to influence change on behalf of our members.

Main responsibilities

Strategic planning and reporting

• Contribute to developing, implementing and evaluating policy and public affairs (PPA) strategies, campaigns and plans aligned to member priorities and our wider strategic aims.
• Lead and manage the delivery of specific PPA workstreams, working in partnership with other organisations as needed.
• Monitor and report on performance against organisational and departmental objectives.

Policy development

• Monitor and analyse the external policy, political and parliamentary landscape across the four UK nations to identify influencing opportunities and relevant developments – summarising these for internal audiences.
• Contribute to the design and analysis of member surveys, drafting reports and presenting findings to inform the College’s policy agenda.
• Work with colleagues to research and draft evidence-based policy positions, consultation responses and briefings for politicians, civil servants, NHS and other key decision makers.
• Maintain an accurate evidence library of data and information to support the development of policy.
• Provide policy-related support to relevant committees to enable their effective contribution to the College’s work, including ensuring agreed actions are implemented.

Public affairs

• Build new and strengthen existing relationships with policymakers, government officials, clinicians and other relevant stakeholders across the four UK nations to advance the College’s policy objectives and maintain a thought leadership position within the eye health sector.
• Draft briefings and presentations to support events and senior-level meetings with politicians, civil servants, NHS and other key decision makers.
• Arrange and represent (as appropriate) the College at events, conferences and external stakeholder meetings.
• Build and maintain the College’s stakeholder database, tracking progress and advising on how to engage with different stakeholders.

Communications

• Work closely with the communications team to support the delivery of communications strategies and plans, ensuring the accuracy of policy information contained in College outputs and contributing to our press activities, member magazine, newsletters and website as required.
• Draft, implement and evaluate the impact of strategic engagement plans for policy publications.
• Support the communication of College policy positions internally, including by proposing lines to take for inclusion in our messaging house and assisting in briefing colleagues and volunteers – including the Chief Executive and President – on these.

To undertake other duties as required

• Undertake any other reasonable duties as required by the College.
• Working outside normal hours and/or overnight stays may be necessary to support the delivery of key organisational events.

Inclusion and diversity statement 

The College is committed to encouraging inclusion, equity and diversity among our staff, and eliminating unlawful discrimination, harassment and victimisation by complying with the Equality Act 2010. We want a working environment where individual differences and the contributions of all staff are recognised and valued. To do this, we will proactively tackle discrimination and disadvantage and ensure that no individual or group is directly or indirectly discriminated against for any reason. We expect all employees to champion and live our values through their work at every opportunity.  

Our values 

Inclusion

• actively welcoming a diversity of experiences and perspectives
• everyone being respected and encouraged to participate regardless of their background or role

Integrity

• being open and honest, demonstrating accountability in all its work
• evidenced-based and transparent decision-making, utilising a range of data, information, expertise and experience

Innovation

• creating novel opportunities to advance and deliver on its aims, anticipating changing circumstances
• actively welcoming fresh ideas and approaches
• fostering a climate of ambition and excellence drawing on expertise from across the College’s communities

Improvement

• being a learning organisation, reflecting on both successes and mistakes
• continuous and sustainable development across all its activities

Person specification

 Knowledge, qualifications and experience

• University degree or professional qualification in a relevant field such as public policy, political science, public health or similar
• At least three years’ experience of working in a policy, public affairs or advocacy role, preferably within the healthcare sector or a membership organisation
• Experience of devising developing, implementing and evaluating policy/public affairs strategies and/or campaigns
• Experience managing projects and initiatives from conception to implementation
• Experience of conducting policy-relevant research and developing evidence-based policy positions and consultation responses
• Experience of drafting high-quality, accessible briefings, reports, and other written materials for diverse audiences, including policymakers, healthcare professionals, and the public
• Experience of engaging with government agencies, policymakers, and other stakeholders to influence policy outcomes
• Working knowledge of IT systems – including Microsoft Office and CRMs

 Skills and abilities

• Strong strategic planning, prioritisation and organisational skills
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to convey complex ideas and nuanced points clearly and persuasively
• Excellent analytical skills with the ability to research, analyse, and interpret complex qualitative and quantitative data to inform policy positions and advocacy efforts
• Proven ability to critically evaluate policy proposals, legislation and other publications and assess their potential implications for the College and our members
• Strong interpersonal skills and a demonstrated ability to build and maintain positive relationships with internal and external stakeholders, including government officials
• Ability to generate new ideas, take initiative and problem solve
• Adaptability and an ability to work well under pressure and manage often conflicting demands within tight timeframes

Personal qualities (attributes)

• Commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion and understanding of how this applies to own area of work
• Commitment to own continuing professional development
• Demonstrates a positive ‘can do’ attitude

Staff benefits

We offer a friendly and supportive working environment and make sure our employees are well looked after with a great benefits package, which includes:

Work life balance and family friendly benefits

• Hybrid working
• 25 days of annual leave, increasing to 30 days with length of service (plus bank holidays and office closure between Christmas and New Year)
• One day of paid leave to move house
• Enhanced parental leave

Planning for your future

• Employer pension contributions up to a maximum of 12%
• Life assurance of 4x of base salary

Career development

• All staff are offered opportunities for learning and development, in addition to a comprehensive e-learning package
• Study loans

Travel

• Season ticket loan
• Cycle to work scheme

Wellbeing

• Summer Fridays (staff can finish 90 minutes early from 17th July – 31st August)
• Enhanced Employee Assistance Programme (with access to free counselling sessions)
• Health Cash Plan

How to apply

Please submit your CV (maximum two pages) and a covering letter (maximum one page). The cover letter must explain what makes you suitable for the role. Please use the job description for reference.

Interviews will be held at our office in Euston, the week commencing 3 June 2024. Please indicate if you are likely to need any reasonable adjustments to successfully complete this interview.

Applicants must already have the right to work within the UK without restriction. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.

The closing date for applications is 27 May 2024.

Senior PR Manager

Are you a passionate about public relations and looking for your next challenge?

We have an exciting opportunity to join Sue Ryder as our Senior Public Relations Manager to help raise the profile of the charity and increase the public understanding and awareness of our work and our services. Reporting to the Head of PR & Internal Communications you will develop and lead a national PR strategy for Sue Ryder, raising awareness for a number of projects, services and campaigns.

About you:

We are looking for somebody with extensive experience of working in a national media or PR team, ideally within a charity. You will have significant experience of managing reputation management issues along with supporting governmental lobbying and influencing and affecting change in policy.
Experience of delivering pro-active PR campaigns with an excellent understanding of the media and experience of managing external PR agencies. You will be a highly proficient writer with the ability to direct and manage projects with multiple stakeholder involvement..

Key Responsibilities:

· Develop and lead a national PR strategy for Sue Ryder, with the aim of supporting income generation and increasing public understanding of the charity and measured against KPIs

· Manage and lead a responsive and pro-active national PR team which operates an out of hours service

· Deliver 2 x pro-active PR campaigns per year which meet set project KPIs

· Work to position Sue Ryder as an expert commentator on end of life and bereavement care within the national media

· Manage reputation management issues with the support of the Head of PR

· Manage our current roster of celebrity ambassadors and deliver against a celebrity outreach strategy to bring additional high profile supporters on board.

· Manage the retained PR agency ensuring that projects are delivered on time and on budget and achieving agreed evaluation metrics.

· Line management of the Case Studies Manager, National PR Manager and National PR Officer

· Develop and maintain strong working relationships with colleagues across the organisation, including members of the executive leadership team.

· Manage the day-to-day reporting against the PR departmental budget

What we can offer you:
Competitive Benefits Package

· 27 days holiday rising to 33 with length of service plus bank holidays (pro rata if part-time), - Company pension scheme

· EAP support scheme

· Staff discount with thousands of retailers

· Enhanced maternity, paternity and adoption pay

· and lots more. Please visit our careers website for the full list.

Closing date: 23rd May
Interview date: TBC

We aim to give all candidates the opportunity to perform at their best during our recruitment process. Please let us know if you require any adjustments at any stage

If you want more than just a job, we want you. Join the team and be there when it matters.

Sue Ryder is here to make sure everyone approaching the end of their life or living with grief can access the support they need. There is no one size fits all when it comes to how we cope and the help we need, but with our support, no one has to face dying or grief alone. We are there when it matters.

We are looking for an Interim External Affairs Manager to help lead our communications activities from 24 June 2024 to 31 December, while our permanent External Affairs Manager is on sabbatical. This is a particularly exciting time to join the team, as we seek to maximise our impact ahead of the next general election and develop our strategy for the next few years. 

The successful candidate will help to manage the day to day work of the External Affairs team, including supporting colleagues to enhance our reach on social media and digital channels, deliver our events programme and deepen our impact with key audiences. 

You will be joining an inclusive and supportive team who welcome people from all backgrounds. What’s important isn’t your level of education or the opportunities which you have had, it’s about you and how you seize the opportunities ahead of you. 

This is a diverse role and will include:

Communications and events

• Working with Head of External Affairs and Income (EA&I) to manage the External Affairs’ team’s day-to-day work, including supporting the team with social media, website and press relations

• Working with Head of EA&I to deliver communications strategy

• Overseeing and project managing the charity’s events programme

Leadership and management

• Leading External Affairs team catch ups and project planning 

• Line managing an External Affairs Officer and an Intern with a focus on professional development

• Providing sign-off on a number of areas, including those that carry some risk to the charity

• Working with the Head of EA&I to collect key management information to report on the impact and reach of external affairs activities to the CEO

• Assisting with the charity’s other activities as required.

Influencing and stakeholder management

• Working with the Head of EA&I to manage and deliver the influencing strategy, including helping to deliver campaigns.

• Supporting team with public affairs engagement

Essential skills and qualities:

• A comms all-rounder who can help lead and manage our busy External Affairs team. 

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to tell a clear story and to tailor content for different audiences.

• The ability to guide colleagues in producing a range of content for different platforms and audiences, including via social media, digital and press relations. 

• The capacity to juggle competing priorities, and to help guide others in doing so.

• Strong project management, organisation and decision-making skills.

• Experience of organising events (particularly online) and an understanding of different tactics to engage audiences.

• A creative self-starter who can take the lead in identifying and acting upon opportunities to increase the impact of our communications activities.

• Strong reputation management skills.

• The ability to support and develop junior colleagues.

• An interest and/or background in campaigning.

• A commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion.

• A passion for improving the lives of people with money and mental health problems.

England’s National Parks represent our finest landscapes, famed for their spectacular beauty, varied wildlife and rich cultural heritage. National Parks are critical to supporting local communities, providing access to green spaces for the nation, and helping to tackle the dual challenges of climate change and declining biodiversity.

National Parks England’s purpose is to be the collective voice for English National Park Authorities, helping us to achieve our purposes through influencing policy.

The Policy and Public Affairs Manager will be an experienced public affairs professional with a passion for nature and understanding of National Parks. 

The successful applicant will join our senior management team, managing the Policy and Public Affairs team and work with the Executive Director  to help develop and drive the NPE policy and public affairs strategy, working closely with stakeholders in our member National Parks and the wider Protected Landscapes family.

Role Summary

As the Director of Research and Public Affairs you lead a team working across the full range of research work (including commissioning, grant-making and in-house research) and public affairs work (including policy analysis, advocacy work and mobilising our activists). You also contribute to the charity’s strategies, leadership and governance as a member of the Executive Team. Ultimately, your role is to generate new knowledge; and communicate knowledge, ideas and emotions to change hearts and minds, creating tangible reductions in alcohol harm across the UK.

Key Tasks and Responsibilities

Leadership, strategy & planning

1. Lead the research and public affairs functions at Alcohol Change UK.

2. Produce and deliver plans across our research and public affairs work programmes that are ambitious for change (impact), realistic given our resources, and consistent with our strategy, our other work programmes, and our values.

3. Set budgets, tightly control costs and identify opportunities for making savings, growing income and making the case for investment.

4. Appropriately monitor and evaluate our research and public affairs work with a view to knowing, growing and showing the impact we make.

Research

5. Work closely with the CEO, Policy and Research Manager, R&P sub-committee and Wales Office to determine and oversee the charity’s programme of commissioned research, research grants, and in-house research.

6. Ensure that all research is designed with impact-in-mind and, once complete, that it delivers on that impact through active and ongoing communication of the findings to the right audiences with the right messages through the right channels.

7. Lead the research function to be the central hub for the charity on the topic of alcohol harm and its solutions, staying on top of new research.

8. Influence the research spending of other agencies (e.g. NIHR) with a view to maximising funding into alcohol research in general.

Public Affairs

9. Lead and manage the charity’s public affairs activity, deploying the CEO, Research & Policy Officer and other staff as a team.

10.  Lead our work with external alliances, such as the Alcohol Health Alliance and the Alcohol and Families Alliance, and on the APPG on Alcohol Harm.

11.  Develop excellent relationships with Parliamentarians, civil servants, charities and other important institutional actors in our field.

12.  Build Campaigner journeys for our engagement audience to best mobilise them to help us with our influencing work.

13.  Lead on the commissioning and management of any external public affairs agencies, parliamentary monitoring services and similar suppliers.

14.  Ensure our policy positions are kept up-to-date, based on emerging evidence and contemporary thinking, and consistent with our principles.

15.  Work closely with the Director of Engagement and Fundraising to effectively mobilise and deploy our activists, Community Champions and other supporters so they (i) make a difference, (ii) become better informed over time, and (iii) remain motivated to campaign for our cause.

16.  Work closely with the Director of Marketing and Communications to influence all forms of media to better support our desired outcomes.

Team Leadership and Management

17.  Lead and manage the research and public affairs team(s), ensuring excellent line management.

18.  Lead the process of recruiting and inducting new team members, as appropriate.

19.  Proactively develop your own skills and experience as well as those of staff within your team.

Cross-organisational Role

20.  Act as a spokesperson for the charity at high profile events and across media, including radio and TV.

21.  Be an active and positive member of the charity’s Executive Team.

22.  Work with colleagues across the charity to support their work and to act as ‘one team’.

23.  Work particularly closely with colleagues in the Wales office, optimising opportunities for joint working.

24.  Contribute actively and positively to the development of charity-wide strategies and activity.

Other Duties

25.  Continually develop your knowledge of alcohol harm and solutions to it.

26.  Act as a positive ambassador for Alcohol Change UK at all times.

27.  Know, embrace and actively uphold the values of Alcohol Change UK at all times.

Other reasonable duties at the request of the CEO.

Head of Campaigns and Public Affairs (maternity cover)

· Maternity cover

· Salary £58,807 per annum

· Full time (37.5 hours)

· Flexible working options will be supported.

· Central London Office and Hybrid working

We offer a pension scheme with employer contribution up to 10%, in addition you’ll receive 28 days holiday plus bank holidays, 24-hour access to a comprehensive employee assistance programme, cycle to work scheme and season ticket loan scheme and other benefits.

About the role

We are looking for a confident, senior Public Affairs and Campaigns professional to lead a programme of relationship building and to develop and deliver parliamentary and campaign strategies to bring about changes in policy, practice, and attitudes across our wide range of target audiences.

The Head of Public Affairs and Campaigns will be crucial in helping us to strategically build relationships with advocates and champions for our work in Westminster and Whitehall, across key industry bodies, sectors and networks and at a local and national level. This includes overseeing our programme of events and working with colleagues across the organisation to develop and deliver high-quality campaigns that effectively build support for the changes we want to see.

This is a hands-on role that will work seamlessly with the Head of Communications and colleagues across the wider organisation to plan and deliver a powerful, coherent, and integrated communications and influencing function. The successful candidate will be proactive and tenacious in horizon-scanning and seeking out opportunities where we can most effectively influence the work of others. You will also be responsible for developing and co-ordinating policy positions and approaches that are attractive and actionable and achieve buy-in and support from others.

You will line manage three individuals and have dotted line oversight of the work of Communications & Campaigns Officers in our Action Areas, as well as general responsibility and oversight – along with the Head of Communications – for the work of the wider Communications Team and influencing activity across the organisation more broadly.

You will be a proven collaborator who is able to demonstrate a strong commitment to Ageing Better’s vision, mission and values.

About you

• You’re a senior public affairs and campaigns practitioner with a strong track record of influencing change in previous roles
• You will have excellent knowledge of UK Government and Parliament, how policy change happens and how to develop effective advocacy strategies to achieve change.
• You’re highly motivated and a team player, able to take the lead in managing issues and external relationships, while providing briefings and support to senior colleagues on others.

About us

The Centre for Ageing Better is a charitable foundation funded by The National Lottery Community Fund and part of the government’s What Works Network

Everyone has the right to a good life as they get older and our whole society benefits when people are able to age well. But far too many people face huge barriers, and as a result are living in bad housing, dealing with poverty and poor health and made to feel invisible in their communities and society.

The Centre for Ageing Better is pioneering ways to make ageing better a reality for everyone. Its key areas of work include challenging ageism and building a nationwide Age-friendly Movement, creating Age-friendly Employment and Age-friendly Homes.

We are striving to create an organisation that reflects our society and the communities we serve. A workplace where everyone feels empowered and where diversity of background and thought is celebrated. We know there is more work to be done and are committed to continuing to improve our practice around Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion.

We very much welcome applications from minority groups and those underrepresented in our workforce. This especially includes people from Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic backgrounds, LGBT+ people, and Disabled people.

We are a Positive Action employer, therefore in recruitment where two candidates are ‘as qualified as’ each other, we will favour a candidate from any group identified as currently underrepresented in our team based on protected characteristics as outlined in the Equality Act 2010.

The closing date for this role is 11:59pm on 15th May, with in- person interviews to take place during week commencing 27 May.

Age UK is currently looking for an exceptional campaigner with a track record of creating, developing and implementing innovative and successful campaigns. You will have fantastic organisational and project management skills, with an understanding of advocacy and campaigning with online and offline networks.

You will also have the creativity and communication skills to help us achieve real change working with and for older people in line with our strategy and goals. Find out more about the role below and apply to join our collaborative and passionate External Affairs Team.

This role is permanent and offered on a Hybrid / London contract. There is a requirement to be in the office at least once a week . There will also be occasional travel to support at events across the country.

Age UK Internal Job Grade - 7L

Must haves:

* Excellent project management skills.
* Experience of organising events.
* Excellent written and oral communication skills.
* Experience of writing persuasive communications to engage a range of supporters online and offline.
* Understanding of political processes and key decision-making environments, including the UK Parliament.
* Ability to manage a complex workload, set priorities and meet tight deadlines.
* Good interpersonal skills and ability to develop and sustain professional working relationships. Ability to be proactive and flexible, and to identify new opportunities.
* Strong interest in creating change and passion for social justice.

Great to haves:
* Knowledge and experience of campaigning both online and offline.
* Some knowledge of the issues affecting people in later life.
* Experience using Engaging Networks or other campaigning platform.

What we offer in return

• Competitive salary, 26 days annual leave + bank holidays + annual leave purchase scheme
• Excellent pension scheme, life assurance, health cashback plan and EAP
• Car Benefit Scheme, Cycle to Work Scheme and Season Ticket Loan
• Techscheme - buy any tech from Apple or Currys, up to £1000, and spread the cost over 12 months, interest free
• Blue Light Card Scheme
• You Did It Awards - recognition awards from £100-250.

Additional Information

Requirement to be in the office at least once a week and to be available to support meetings and events in London when required. There is a requirement to travel and occasionally to stay overnight (e.g. running events in different parts of the country, party conferences or filming storytellers in different parts of the country); some out of hours working (e.g. occasional evening Parliamentary events).

All CVs will be anonymised by our recruitment system when you apply for a role at Age UK. Please note that our system is unable to anonymise cover letters, and we would therefore ask that to support the work we are doing on making our recruitment selection process fairer and more unbiased, that you remove any personal information from your cover letter/supporting statement, including your name before uploading this. All equalities monitoring information is also anonymised and not shared with the hiring panel. Your name and address will only be known to us once you are invited for an interview.

Age UK is an Equal Opportunities employer and positively encourages applications from suitably qualified and eligible candidates, regardless of age, sex, race, disability, sexual orientation, gender reassignment, religion or belief, marital/civil partnership status, or pregnancy and maternity. We guarantee an interview to disabled candidates who meet the minimum criteria under the Disability Confident Scheme. Please note that on occasion, due to high numbers of applications, Age UK reserves the right to limit the overall number of interviews offered, and therefore, it may not always be practicable or appropriate to interview all disabled people that meet the minimum criteria for the job.

Age UK is committed to safeguarding adults at risk, and children, from abuse and neglect. We expect everyone who works with us to share this commitment.

Early application is encouraged as we will review applications throughout the advertising period and reserve the right to close the advert at any time.

Age UK politely requests no contact from recruitment agencies or media sales. We do not accept speculative CVs from recruitment agencies nor accept the fees associated with them.

We are delighted to announce an exceptional opportunity to join the RSA (Royal Society for the Encouragement of Arts, Manufactures and Commerce) as a Media and Public Affairs Officer!

 About the RSA: Founded in 1754, the RSA is a prestigious institution with a rich history of championing innovative ideas, driving societal change, and encouraging creative thinking across arts, manufacturing, and commerce. Their mission is to enrich society through ideas and action, making a lasting impact on communities and shaping a brighter future for all.

About the Role: As a Media and Public Affairs Officer, you will play a pivotal role in communicating the RSA's impactful work to a diverse network of stakeholders, including the media. You will lead integrated communications campaigns, manage media relations, and contribute to their mission of influence and impact.

Key Responsibilities include:

• Lead integrated communications campaigns promoting the RSA's nationwide programmes, policy interventions, and public events.
• Build and maintain a strong media profile for the RSA, targeting key audiences including policymakers, businesses, academia, and the wider public.
• Secure media coverage and exposure across various publications and platforms.
• Cultivate new press and public affairs contacts to further organisational objectives.
• Collaborate with internal teams to ensure consistent messaging and content delivery.
• Write engaging and newsworthy content for various platforms, including the RSA Journal

Person Specification:

• Experience in media relations, public affairs, journalism, or policy.
• Excellent writing, digital, and analytical skills.
• Ability to work autonomously in a fast-paced environment.

What's on Offer:

• A collaborative and dynamic work environment.
• Opportunities for professional growth and development.
• Competitive salary of £32,000 per annum and benefits package.
• Flexible working arrangements, 3 days a week in their Central London office.

If you are a proactive and innovative communicator passionate about making a difference, we want to hear from you!

To be considered for this position please apply with your CV as soon as possible, regrettably please note we may not be able to reply to each and every application.

We are committed to diverse and inclusive recruitment practises that ensure equal opportunity for everyone, regardless of race, sexual orientation, mental or physical disability, age or gender. We encourage applications from all backgrounds and will happily make reasonable adjustments to always ensure a fair process.