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For Companies Policy & Public Affairs InternshipLength: 32 weeks, estimated start in May
Salary: London living wage, ÂŁ26,936 proârata
Working Pattern: Full-time, 35hrs Mon â Fri | Staff can opt to work 32hrs over 4 days each week (with either Monday or Friday as a nonâworking day). The BES is a 4âday work week organisation with no reduction in pay.
Location: Hybrid. We ask that staff spend at least 60% of their time at our London office.
Closing Date: Thursday 2 April, 10:00am
Interview Date: Monday 27 April
Purpose of roleThis role will provide the successful applicant with an opportunity to gain firstâhand experience of working in environmental policy and public affairs. You will join our small friendly Policy team working across the BESâs policy priorities, ensuring scientific evidence is accessible to policymakers across the UK. If you have strong interpersonal and organisational skills, demonstrable interest in environmental policy and a desire to learn about the BESâs policy work, we would love to hear from you.
Key ResponsibilitiesPolicy & Research
Research and prepare a policy briefing on a topic aligned with the BESâs policy strategy.
Drawing from previous BES publications, help develop and refine the BESâs strategic messaging to support consistent and effective external communications.
Oversee the policy section of the BES website, including writing expert and engaging blogs and news items, and organising the contribution of external collaborators.
Working with the communications team, help to develop content to communicate key messages, including webinars, podcasts, newsletter content and social media.
Public Affairs
Develop a database of contacts and stakeholders to help communicate our key messages.
Represent the BES, alongside other members of the Policy & External Affairs team, at meetings with external partners, workshops, parliamentary receptions and conferences, building relationships and forging effective partnerships.
Help with policy event management including policy roundtables, expert workshops, policy training and other online and inâperson events.
Support
Provide support to the BES Policy Committee and our national Policy Groups in England, Wales and Scotland. This includes organising meetings, as well as producing relevant papers, agendas and minutes.
RequirementsPerson SpecificationEssential
Strong written and verbal communication skills with the ability to engage a wide range of audiences.
Ability to analyse, interpret and summarise complex scientific information in an engaging manner.
Selfâmotivated, with the ability to be proactive and work independently.
Familiarity with social media with experience of writing webpages, blogs and social media posts.
Strong interpersonal skills, with experience of developing effective working relationships with a range of individuals.
Strong organisational skills, with the ability to meet multiple deadlines and prioritise work with excellent attention to detail.
Good IT skills, including knowledge of Microsoft Office.
Degree in natural sciences or social sciences.
A demonstrable interest in environmental policy.
Desirable
Some knowledge of the environmental policy priorities of the UK and devolved governments.
Some knowledge of BES policy priority areas, including Nature Finance, Nature Based Solutions and NatureâPositive Infrastructure.
An understanding of the BESâs work and the role of learned societies.
To apply for this vacancy
Your CV â no more than 2 Ă A4 sides detailing your education, training and work history, as well as any relevant skills.
A cover letter â no more than 1 Ă A4 side explaining why you wish to undertake this particular role at the BES.
Your Equality & Diversity information â this voluntary information helps us to assess the diversity of our recruitment and further improve recruitment processes in the future. It has no bearing on the success of your application and is not considered as part of the shortlisting process.
BenefitsFourâday working week
Along with our fourâday working week to support a better work/life balance, we offer a range of flexible working options, including hybrid working and variable start and finishing times.
Annual leave
With a generous holiday allowance and office closure between Christmas and the New Year, weâll make sure you have space for yourself. We also offer everyone a week working from anywhere.
Pension
To help with saving for your retirement, we offer a generous pension plan.
Health and wellbeing
With a supportive occupational sick policy, eye care checks and seasonal flu jabs weâre here to keep your health a priority. We have regular wellbeing activities, a wellness room and annual awayâdays for all staff.
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Contact Detail:
BRITISH ECOLOGICAL SOCIETY Recruiting Team
How to prepare for a job interview at BRITISH ECOLOGICAL SOCIETY
â¨Know Your Policy Stuff
Make sure you brush up on current environmental policies and the BES's priorities. Familiarise yourself with their recent publications and strategic messaging. This will not only show your interest but also help you engage in meaningful discussions during the interview.
â¨Show Off Your Communication Skills
Since strong written and verbal communication skills are essential for this role, prepare to demonstrate these in your interview. Think of examples where you've effectively communicated complex information or engaged different audiences, whether through blogs, presentations, or social media.
â¨Be Proactive and Organised
The BES values self-motivated individuals who can manage multiple tasks. Come prepared with examples of how you've successfully prioritised work and met deadlines in the past. This will highlight your organisational skills and ability to work independently.
â¨Build a Connection
Interpersonal skills are key for this internship. Be ready to discuss how you've built relationships in previous roles or projects. Show enthusiasm for collaborating with others, as you'll be representing the BES at various events and meetings.