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- Tasks: Lead policy strategy and engage with government to shape impactful outcomes.
- Company: AKG, a leader in employment, skills, health, and wellbeing services.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, diverse work environment, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Why this job: Make a real difference by influencing policy and driving positive change.
- Qualifications: Experience in policy and public affairs, strong communication, and stakeholder management skills.
- Other info: Join a dynamic team committed to sustainable growth and community impact.
The predicted salary is between 43200 - 72000 £ per year.
AKG is a leading provider across employment, skills, health and wellbeing, delivering services that support positive outcomes for individuals, communities and commissioners. AKG works closely with partners, government and local stakeholders to support sustainable growth and strong market positioning. The organisation operates across multiple UK business units and is part of a wider international group.
The opportunity: AKG is seeking a Head of Policy and Public Affairs to lead its external positioning, policy engagement and thought leadership activity in the UK. Reporting to the Business Development Director, the Head of Policy and Public Affairs will play a central role in supporting AKG’s growth strategy by building relationships with government, shaping policy debate and raising the profile of the organisation. This is a senior, externally facing role working closely with the UK Country Manager, Leadership Team and Growth Team.
Main responsibilities:
- Lead AKG’s policy and external affairs strategy in support of the UK growth and business strategy.
- Build and manage senior relationships with MPs, government, combined and local authorities, membership bodies and influencing organisations.
- Providing guidance on navigating political shifts and influencing relevant decision-makers.
- Overseeing the development of thought leadership, policy positions, briefings, consultation responses and evidence-based submissions. Work closely with senior leadership and internal teams to ensure positions are informed, consistent, and well-communicated.
- Represent AKG at policy, political and industry events and forums when required.
Key skills and experience:
- Proven experience in policy and public affairs aligned to employment, skills or health and wellbeing is required.
- Strong understanding of UK government policy development and legislative process.
- Demonstrable experience influencing decision-makers and shaping policy debate.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including policy and thought leadership drafting.
- Strong stakeholder management skills and the ability to operate with credibility at senior level.
Ellwood Atfield is the leading headhunter for communications, advocacy, and policy. An employee-owned boutique search firm, we help you hire the most senior leaders and everyone who reports to them. We promise to connect talented people, smoothly and efficiently. Our purpose is to create important and enduring relationships. We are an equal opportunities employer and promote diversity across our profession to ensure every individual has the opportunity to perform at their best. If you have not done so already, please let us know if you require any support so we can make the right adjustments and considerations should they be required.
Head of Policy and Public Affairs employer: AKG UK
Contact Detail:
AKG UK Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Policy and Public Affairs
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with people in the industry. Attend events, join relevant groups, and don’t be shy about reaching out to folks on LinkedIn. Building relationships can open doors you didn’t even know existed.
✨Tip Number 2
Show your passion for policy! When you get the chance to chat with potential employers or at networking events, share your thoughts on current issues in employment, skills, and health. This will demonstrate your expertise and enthusiasm for the role.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by knowing your stuff! Research AKG’s recent projects and their impact on policy. Be ready to discuss how you can contribute to their growth strategy and engage with key stakeholders effectively.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the team and making a difference in policy and public affairs.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Policy and Public Affairs
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the Head of Policy and Public Affairs role. Highlight your experience in policy and public affairs, especially in employment, skills, or health and wellbeing. We want to see how your background aligns with our mission at AKG!
Showcase Your Communication Skills: Since excellent written communication is key for this role, ensure your application is clear, concise, and free of jargon. Use straightforward language to demonstrate your ability to communicate complex ideas effectively. Remember, we’re looking for someone who can shape policy debate!
Highlight Your Stakeholder Management Experience: In your application, emphasise any experience you have in building relationships with senior stakeholders, such as MPs or local authorities. We want to know how you've influenced decision-makers in the past and how you can bring that expertise to AKG.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to submit your application through our website for a smoother process. It’s the best way for us to keep track of your application and ensure it gets the attention it deserves. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to join our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at AKG UK
✨Know Your Policy Landscape
Before the interview, dive deep into current UK government policies related to employment, skills, and health. Understanding the latest developments will not only show your expertise but also help you engage in meaningful discussions about how AKG can influence these areas.
✨Build Your Network
Since this role involves managing relationships with MPs and local authorities, think about your existing connections. Prepare examples of how you've successfully built and maintained relationships in the past, as this will demonstrate your ability to navigate the political landscape effectively.
✨Craft Your Thought Leadership
Be ready to discuss your experience in developing policy positions and thought leadership. Bring along samples of your previous work or be prepared to outline your approach to creating impactful briefings and submissions that align with AKG’s mission.
✨Communicate with Confidence
Strong communication skills are key for this role. Practice articulating your thoughts clearly and confidently, especially when discussing complex policy issues. This will help you convey your ideas effectively and showcase your ability to represent AKG at industry events.