Senior Defence Policy Adviser

ADS is the UK trade association for the aerospace, defence,security and space sectors, representing and supporting more than 2,000 UKbusinesses, from major multinational organisations to small and medium-sizedcompanies across the country. We work at the forefront of industry, creatingbusiness opportunities, supporting innovation and growth, and representing theinterests of our members.

We are seeking an experienced and influential Senior DefencePolicy Adviser to play a key role in representing and supporting the UK’sdefence sector. You will lead the research, development and communication ofADS’ defence policy priorities, ensuring that industry positions are supportedby a strong and credible evidence base. You will proactively identify and shapesignificant policy issues, including the Defence Industrial Strategy and futuredefence reviews, while monitoring developments across UK, EU and internationaldefence policy.

Working closely with member companies, governmentrepresentatives and wider industry stakeholders, you will develop policypapers, consultation responses and thought leadership materials. You willrepresent ADS and its members at senior-level meetings, including the DefenceIndustries Joint Council and other joint Industry and Ministry of Defencecommittees, while ensuring that relevant policy developments are communicatedclearly and promptly to our membership.

You will collaborate across ADS teams and with externalpartners, supporting campaigns, events, committees and industry forums. Therole also includes coordinating meetings, recording and following up actions,managing the established industry secondee programme, and providing guidanceand support to secondees. You will report directly to the Director of Policyand Public Affairs and deputise for them where appropriate.

The Candidate

The successful candidate will have a strong understanding ofthe UK defence industry and of UK, EU and international defence policy. Youwill bring excellent analytical, research and written communication skills,together with sound political judgement and the ability to develop creative,evidence-led approaches to complex policy matters.

You will be a confident and credible communicator who canbuild effective relationships with senior stakeholders across government andindustry. Previous experience of cross-functional collaboration, advocacy andstakeholder engagement will be important, as will the ability to respondeffectively to the needs of members and colleagues.

Highly organised and comfortable working in a fast-pacedenvironment, you will be able to manage competing priorities, meet tightdeadlines and maintain a consistently high level of accuracy and attention todetail. You will have advanced IT skills, including proficiency in MicrosoftOffice, and the ability to work independently while contributing positively aspart of a wider team.

You will also have experience of line management ormentoring and be able to guide, support and develop others. Confidence andprofessional presence in senior-level settings are essential, particularly whenrepresenting ADS or deputising for senior colleagues. Applicants must beeligible to obtain DBS and Security Check clearance.

The Contract

This is a permanent, full-time position working 37.5 hoursper week, Monday to Friday.

The role offers hybrid working, with three daysbased in the London office and two days working from home.