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- Tasks: Lead engagement with policymakers and industry to influence land-based sector policies.
- Company: Lantra is the UK's leading awarding body for land-based and environmental sectors.
- Benefits: Enjoy hybrid working options and a chance to shape future skills in the industry.
- Why this job: Be a thought leader, inspire change, and support the next generation of learners.
- Qualifications: Proven experience in research, policy engagement, and effective communication required.
- Other info: Applications close on 27th June 2025; reach out for a confidential chat.
The predicted salary is between 43200 - 72000 £ per year.
Lantra is seeking to appoint a Director of Policy, Research & External Relations to engage with policymakers, government, industry and the wider land-based sectors to produce, communicate and promote evidence-based research that influences policy and supports the land-based and environmental industries.
Lantra is the leading awarding body in the UK and the Republic of Ireland in the land-based and environment sectors, developing quality training courses and nationally recognised qualifications that are delivered through a national network of accredited training providers.
Key Responsibilities:The Director of Policy, Research & External Relations (DPRE) will be responsible for leading Lantra’s engagement with industry, government and other relevant UK policy stakeholders, representing the interests of the land-based industries and influencing policy, whilst ensuring that the necessary strategy is in place to achieve Lantra’s long term vision. They will:
- Gain industry support for research and for Lantra as a spokesperson to UK government and to policymakers at national, local and industry levels.
- Identify, verify and/or quantify skills issues identified through research and labour market intelligence capability to identify skills needs, gaps and validated opportunities.
- Use evidence to engage UK government and policymakers at national, local and industry levels, and advocate changes and solutions to address workforce issues.
- Define and lead the execution of Lantra’s communications and external relations to ensure consistent messaging and increase awareness of Lantra Awards and ‘Investing in Skills’ activities.
- Alongside the CEO, position Lantra with UK government and other stakeholders, as a respected authority on skills issues in the sectors Lantra is operating in; able to offer evidence-based solutions and to be a trusted partner in their delivery.
We are looking for a leader who will inspire a dedicated team, bringing passion and guidance to identify key issues, develop creative solutions and successfully promote these to stakeholders. Lantra has a market-leading reputation and is seeking to become a thought leader and champion to the land-based and environmental industries and its people. The Director of Policy, Research & External Relations will be:
- An excellent communicator, able to effectively engage with a wide range of stakeholders.
- A person of initiative, with a demonstrable ability to identify key issues, develop creative solutions and successfully promote them externally.
- A strong team player with emotional intelligence to support and constructively challenge colleagues as part of the Lantra community.
- A demonstrable leader, effective at building successful teams, able to inspire, motivate and communicate at all levels to provide united direction and cohesive leadership.
- An outgoing, proven capacity for networking, able to build and develop effective professional relationships with key industry players and policymakers.
- Experience of designing and delivering effective research ideally in the area of education and skills policy.
- Evidence of effective engagement with government and policymakers, understanding of policymaking structures and processes and how to influence them.
- Experience of working with print/broadcast/social media, including developing/implementing social media strategies.
- Evidence of presenting and communicating research, policy and positioning statements.
Location: Lantra HQ is based in Warwickshire. Hybrid-working is available.
Lantra has engaged the services of The McLean Partnership, to whom applications should be sent by midday, Friday 27th June 2025.
More information and a candidate prospectus can be found at our dedicated website.
For a confidential conversation about the opportunity, please contact Caius Freeman on +44 (0) 7517 950 934, Paul Soothill on +44 (0)7775 598 446 or email lantra@mcleanpartnership.com.
Contact Detail:
Lantra Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Director of Policy, Research & External Relations
✨Tip Number 1
Network actively within the land-based and environmental sectors. Attend industry events, webinars, and conferences to meet key stakeholders and policymakers. Building these relationships can provide you with insights and opportunities that are not publicly advertised.
✨Tip Number 2
Stay updated on current policies and trends affecting the land-based industries. Subscribe to relevant newsletters, follow influential figures on social media, and engage in discussions to demonstrate your knowledge and passion for the sector.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to showcase your leadership skills by gathering examples of how you've successfully led teams or projects in the past. Be ready to discuss specific instances where you've influenced policy or engaged with government stakeholders effectively.
✨Tip Number 4
Familiarise yourself with Lantra's mission and values. Understanding their long-term vision will help you align your approach and demonstrate how your experience and ideas can contribute to their goals during any discussions or interviews.
We think you need these skills to ace Director of Policy, Research & External Relations
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Before applying, make sure to thoroughly read the job description for the Director of Policy, Research & External Relations position. Understand the key responsibilities and essential experience required, so you can tailor your application accordingly.
Tailor Your CV: Customise your CV to highlight relevant experience in policy engagement, research design, and communication strategies. Use specific examples that demonstrate your ability to influence policymakers and engage with stakeholders effectively.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your passion for the land-based and environmental sectors. Discuss how your skills and experiences align with Lantra's mission and how you can contribute to their long-term vision.
Highlight Leadership Skills: In your application, emphasise your leadership qualities and experience in building successful teams. Provide examples of how you've inspired and motivated others, as this is crucial for the role.
How to prepare for a job interview at Lantra
✨Research Lantra Thoroughly
Before the interview, make sure to dive deep into Lantra's mission, values, and recent initiatives. Understanding their role in the land-based and environmental sectors will help you align your responses with their goals and demonstrate your genuine interest in the organisation.
✨Prepare Evidence-Based Examples
Given the emphasis on evidence-based research in the job description, come prepared with specific examples from your past experience where you've successfully influenced policy or engaged with stakeholders. This will showcase your ability to meet the expectations of the role.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
As an excellent communicator, be ready to discuss how you've effectively communicated complex ideas to diverse audiences. Practice articulating your thoughts clearly and confidently, as this will be crucial in demonstrating your fit for the role.
✨Demonstrate Leadership and Teamwork
Highlight your leadership experiences and how you've inspired teams in the past. Be prepared to discuss how you balance being a strong team player while also taking initiative, as this is key to thriving in the Director position.
