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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a team to develop and execute impactful public affairs campaigns.
- Company: Join a dynamic public affairs agency in Westminster focused on growth and innovation.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible hours, health insurance, and up to 30 days of annual leave.
- Why this job: Shape a high-performing team and drive agency growth while making a real impact.
- Qualifications: 7-10+ years in public affairs with strong leadership and commercial skills required.
- Other info: Ideal for ambitious leaders looking to elevate their career in public affairs.
The predicted salary is between 43200 - 72000 £ per year.
A client of Melbury Wood is hiring an ambitious Head of Public Affairs to join their growing team in London.
Role Overview Join a dynamic, forward-thinking public affairs agency based in Westminster. This leadership role is central to driving the agency’s growth in 2025 and beyond, offering an opportunity to build and shape a high-performing public affairs team while delivering exceptional results for clients.
Ideal Candidate
- Proven leader with experience growing and managing teams.
- Commercially savvy with a track record of securing new business.
- Expertise in public affairs with a strong record of effective lobbying.
- Well-connected within UK, devolved, and EU political landscapes.
- Skilled communicator with expertise in client management.
- Digital and social media savvy with analytical and financial acumen.
- Politically knowledgeable and confident engaging senior stakeholders.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead a team of 5 consultants managing Public Liaison Groups (PLGs).
- Develop and execute integrated public affairs campaigns.
- Drive new business growth through pitching, proposals, and cross-selling services.
- Build strong networks with politicians, key stakeholders, and prospective clients.
- Oversee client projects to ensure on-time, high-quality delivery.
- Manage budgets, meet sales targets, and contribute to annual business planning.
- Recruit, train, and develop team members.
Core Requirements
- 7-10+ years’ experience in public affairs, consultancy, or related fields.
- Must have senior agency experience.
- Strong understanding of UK politics, media, and lobbying processes.
- High commercial awareness and attention to detail.
- Ability to write compelling pitches and proposals.
Benefits
- 25 days annual leave (up to 30 with tenure).
- Flexible working hours and hybrid working options available.
- Health insurance, enhanced pension (up to 7%), and travel loan schemes.
- Professional and personal development budgets.
- Team socials, annual trips, and referral bonuses.
- Central London location with facilities (bike storage, showers, kitchen).
This role is ideal for an ambitious leader eager to make a mark in public affairs and help drive an agency’s growth to the next level.
Head of Public Affairs employer: Melbury Wood
Contact Detail:
Melbury Wood Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Public Affairs
✨Tip Number 1
Network strategically within the UK political landscape. Attend industry events, seminars, and conferences where you can meet key stakeholders and decision-makers. Building these connections can give you an edge in understanding the nuances of public affairs and may lead to valuable opportunities.
✨Tip Number 2
Stay updated on current political trends and issues that affect public affairs. Subscribe to relevant newsletters, follow influential figures on social media, and engage in discussions to demonstrate your knowledge and passion for the field during interviews.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your leadership skills by sharing examples of how you've successfully managed teams and driven growth in previous roles. Be prepared to discuss specific strategies you implemented that led to new business acquisition or improved client relationships.
✨Tip Number 4
Familiarize yourself with the agency's existing clients and their needs. Tailor your approach to demonstrate how your experience aligns with their goals and how you can contribute to their success, making you a more attractive candidate for the role.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Public Affairs
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights your leadership experience and achievements in public affairs. Focus on your track record of managing teams, securing new business, and delivering successful campaigns.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your understanding of the public affairs landscape and your ability to engage with senior stakeholders. Use specific examples from your past experiences to demonstrate your skills and expertise.
Highlight Relevant Experience: In your application, emphasize your 7-10+ years of experience in public affairs or consultancy. Mention any relevant connections within UK, devolved, and EU political landscapes that could benefit the agency.
Showcase Your Communication Skills: Since strong communication is key for this role, ensure your application reflects your ability to write compelling pitches and proposals. Consider including examples of successful client management or lobbying efforts.
How to prepare for a job interview at Melbury Wood
✨Showcase Your Leadership Experience
As a candidate for the Head of Public Affairs, it's crucial to highlight your experience in leading and managing teams. Prepare specific examples of how you've successfully grown teams and delivered results in previous roles.
✨Demonstrate Commercial Savvy
Be ready to discuss your track record in securing new business. Share insights on how you've pitched proposals and cross-sold services effectively, showcasing your understanding of the commercial aspects of public affairs.
✨Highlight Your Political Connections
Given the importance of networking in this role, come prepared with examples of your connections within the UK, devolved, and EU political landscapes. Discuss how these relationships have benefited your previous clients.
✨Prepare for Client Management Scenarios
Since client management is a key responsibility, think of scenarios where you've successfully managed client expectations and delivered high-quality results. Be ready to discuss your communication strategies and how you engage with senior stakeholders.
