At a Glance
- Tasks: Shape and deliver impactful policies for the environment and rural communities.
- Company: Join Defra, a key UK government department focused on sustainability.
- Benefits: Gain valuable experience, develop skills, and enjoy career progression opportunities.
- Other info: Collaborative team environment with diverse stakeholders and flexible projects.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in people's lives and the planet's future.
- Qualifications: No specific policy knowledge needed; just a passion for making change.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
You will be working in the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra), the UK government department responsible for improving and protecting the environment. Defra's vision is to make the air purer, the water cleaner, the land greener and food more sustainable, by supporting a productive food and farming sector and resilient rural communities. Our work touches people's everyday lives, from the food we eat and the water we drink to the places we live and work. We are responsible for England's environment, countryside, rural economy and food system, and for reducing risks from flooding, animal and plant disease and other natural hazards.
Your role will be vital in helping Defra deliver its priorities and achieve positive outcomes for people, nature and the economy. As a Senior Policy Officer, you will work as part of a team, engaging with a wide range of internal and external stakeholders and contributing to the development of policy and strategy. You will play an active role in shaping and delivering Defra group priorities, working collaboratively and creatively to achieve strong outcomes.
Specialist knowledge of specific policy areas is not required, as you will be supported to build your understanding in the role. You will also have opportunities to develop your skills and support your future career progression. Defra's profile has never been higher, and its wide-ranging remit offers genuine opportunities to influence policy and outcomes. Work is organised across directorates, workstreams and projects that flex to deliver ministerial priorities.
You will work as part of a collaborative team made up of peers and senior colleagues, supporting shared delivery. In some roles, you may also line manage a small team of Higher Executive Officers (HEOs) and Executive Officers (EOs). The role involves building strong relationships with a wide range of stakeholders. Internally, this may include Ministers, Directors, and colleagues across Defra. Externally, you may work with industry bodies, non-governmental organisations, and members of the public.
As a Senior Policy Officer, you will help deliver Defra's top priorities and may be required to work in different directorates. While no two roles are the same, work typically includes:
- Understanding and leading on selected policy areas.
- Using evidence and expert advice from within and outside government to inform policy decisions.
- Supporting policy teams to brief Ministers and senior officials.
- Planning and prioritising work to deliver high-quality outcomes on time, including, in some cases, managing a small team of HEOs and EOs.
About Disability Confident: A Disability Confident employer will generally offer an interview to any applicant that declares they have a disability and meets the minimum criteria for the job as defined by the employer. It is important to note that in certain recruitment situations such as high-volume, seasonal and high-peak times, the employer may wish to limit the overall numbers of interviews offered to both disabled people and non-disabled people.
Senior Policy Advisor in Bristol employer: Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs (DEFRA)
Defra is an exceptional employer, dedicated to fostering a collaborative and inclusive work culture that prioritises employee growth and development. As a Senior Policy Advisor, you will have the unique opportunity to influence vital environmental policies while working alongside passionate colleagues in a dynamic government setting. With a strong commitment to sustainability and community resilience, Defra offers meaningful work that directly impacts the lives of people across England.
Contact Details:
Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs (DEFRA) Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Policy Advisor in Bristol
✨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 Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs (DEFRA), 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 Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs (DEFRA) 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 Senior Policy Advisor in Bristol
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 Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs (DEFRA) 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 Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs (DEFRA)
✨Get to Know Public Sector Values
Before your interview with Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs (DEFRA), 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 Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs (DEFRA).
