At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead external affairs strategy and influence policy for housing and care.
- Company: Largest not-for-profit provider of housing and care for older people in the UK.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, hybrid working, and impactful role in shaping national conversations.
- Other info: Join a dynamic team and enjoy excellent career growth opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in the lives of older people and shape future policies.
- Qualifications: Senior experience in external affairs and strong understanding of UK policymaking.
The predicted salary is between 80000 - 80000 £ per year.
Job Type: Full Time | Permanent
Hours: 37.5 hours per week
Salary: £80,000 per annum
Shape the national conversation. Build trust. Lead change. As the largest not-for-profit provider of housing and care for older people in the country, we have scale, heritage and impact. Now, we are looking for a Head of External Affairs to help us build trust, strengthen our influence, and shape the future of housing, care, and ageing at a national level. This is an exciting role - operating at the intersection of policy, reputation and growth - and deciding where and how we make the biggest difference.
The Opportunity
- You will lead the transformation of our external affairs - setting a clear strategy and message, and ensuring our voice is heard where it matters most.
- From influencing government policy to strengthening relationships with regulators, local authorities and sector partners, you’ll turn what we do every day into compelling narratives that build confidence, support occupancy, and drive our growth.
In this role, you will:
- Set the direction - Define and deliver a clear, insight-led external affairs strategy and narrative aligned to organisational priorities in a complex, high-profile environment.
- Influence where it matters – Inform external policy and build relationships across government, regulators, local authorities and sector bodies, building our reputation.
- Tell our story - Drive high-impact content that showcases our impact and supports growth.
- Lead and modernise the way we work – so your in-house and agency team deliver real, measurable impact.
- Work across housing, health, and social care - One of the most important and evolving policy areas in the UK.
What We’re Looking For
A strategic, credible and intellectually curious leader who understands how change happens - and how to influence it.
You’ll Bring:
- Significant senior experience in external affairs, public affairs or corporate communications.
- Strong understanding of UK policymaking, particularly across housing, health or social care.
- A track record of shaping reputation, influencing stakeholders or delivering policy impact.
- Experience working in complex, regulated environments.
- The ability to operate confidently with senior leaders and external stakeholders.
You Might Currently Be:
- Leading external affairs in a housing association, public body or regulated organisation.
- Working in a government department or sector body with strong policy exposure.
- Ready to step into a broader, more strategic role with national impact.
Who You Are
- Strategically minded, but hands-on and delivery-focused.
- Comfortable navigating political, fast-moving and ambiguous environments.
- A natural connector - able to build influence and credibility quickly.
- Curious about policy, stakeholders and how decisions are really made.
- Resilient, pragmatic and driven by outcomes.
Location & Working Style
- Hybrid working (predominantly remote).
- Regular presence in London (approx. 1 day per week).
- Occasional travel to other locations as required.
Selection Process
- 1st stage interviews will be held via MS Teams from 11 to 15 September.
- 2nd stage interviews will be held in-person in London on 29 September.
Join Us. This is a rare opportunity to step into a high-impact role at a defining moment - and help more people love living in later life.
Head of External Affairs in London employer: Anchor
Anchor is an exceptional employer that prioritises employee growth and development, offering a supportive work culture where innovation and collaboration thrive. With a focus on enhancing resident experiences across beautiful locations in Hampshire, Oxfordshire, and Berkshire, employees benefit from competitive salaries, comprehensive training, and the opportunity to make a meaningful impact in the community. Join us to be part of a dedicated team that values your contributions and fosters a rewarding career path.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of External Affairs in London
✨Dive into Local Government Events
Get yourself to local government events and public sector job fairs. These are great for meeting recruiters and understanding what different organisations, like Anchor, are looking for. Plus, it shows your genuine interest in the sector!
✨Join Relevant Networks
Look for communities focused on public sector careers. Whether it’s local networking groups or online forums, connecting with professionals in the field can provide insider knowledge and opportunities that you won’t find on typical job boards.
✨Utilise Your University’s Resources
If you’re freshly graduated or still studying, make the most of your university's careers service. They often have exclusive partnerships with companies like Anchor and can help you get your foot in the door for these full-time public sector roles.
✨Stay Updated with Government Initiatives
Keep your finger on the pulse regarding new government projects and policies. Understanding current initiatives can give you a leg up in interviews, showing that you are informed and genuinely interested in making a difference in the public sector.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of External Affairs in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Relevant Experience:In the public sector, having experience in community engagement, policy analysis, or project management stands out. Make sure to showcase any previous roles or volunteer work that reflects your understanding of public service values and how they've shaped your career path.
Showcase Your Knowledge of the Sector:When you’re applying for a government role, it’s crucial to demonstrate your understanding of the current political landscape and public policies. Consider including articles you've written or relevant projects that underline your capability to engage with these concepts effectively.
Tailor Your CV to Reflect Core Competencies:Government positions often require a clear demonstration of competencies such as communication, teamwork, and problem-solving. Try to structure your CV to highlight these skills, using specific examples of how you’ve applied them in past experiences, ideally with quantifiable outcomes where possible.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to tell your story and convey your passion for public service. Discuss why you want to work for Anchor and how your values align with their mission. Be genuine and let your enthusiasm shine through—this can really set you apart from other candidates.
How to prepare for a job interview at Anchor
✨Get to Know Public Sector Values
Before your interview with Anchor, dig deep into their mission and values, especially how they align with public service and community impact. Understand the key policies or initiatives they are involved in – you’ll want to show that you genuinely care about serving the community.
✨Brush Up on Regulatory Knowledge
Brush up on the regulations, laws, and compliance standards relevant to the role you’re applying for. Since this is the government and public sector, they might throw technical questions related to policy frameworks or project management best practices that you'll need to navigate day-to-day.
✨Highlight Teamwork and Collaboration
The government sector thrives on collaboration. Be ready to discuss how you've successfully worked in diverse teams or involved stakeholders in your projects. Show us how you bring people together to get a common goal achieved – that's what public service is all about!
✨Prepare Real-Life Examples
Craft a few STAR (Situation, Task, Action, Result) stories that demonstrate your experience in similar roles. Whether it’s a project that made a difference in the community or a challenging situation you managed, be ready to express how your skills and experiences make you a valuable asset for Anchor.
