At a Glance
- Tasks: Support policy development and collaborate with stakeholders to achieve positive outcomes.
- Company: Join Defra, the UK government department dedicated to protecting the environment.
- Benefits: Gain valuable experience, develop skills, and contribute to meaningful environmental policies.
- Other info: Flexible work environment with opportunities for career growth and development.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on the environment and communities while shaping future policies.
- Qualifications: Strong communication skills and a passion for environmental issues.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 50000 € 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.
Would you like the opportunity to develop your own skills and future career in a policy role? As a Policy Advisor you will be part of a team who work with a range of both internal and external stakeholders. You will contribute towards the drafting of policy and strategy that support Defra's key priorities. This means that you may develop specialist expertise and work across a small portfolio area. Alternatively, you may develop a more overarching knowledge of a wider range of topics. You will play an active role in shaping and delivering the Defra group's priorities, working creatively and collaboratively with others to deliver excellent outcomes.
Our policy areas are each split into Directorates, work‑streams, and projects that combine flexibly to deliver on Ministerial priorities. As a Policy Advisor you will support your team to deliver against the directorate's policy objectives. You will be responsible for supporting policy development, working with stakeholders to achieve outcomes, and contributing towards the drafting of policy and strategy papers. The successful candidates will need to be flexible in response to changing priorities. In addition, the post holder may be asked to provide support on wider Departmental or Directorate priorities as needed.
Responsibilities- Supporting your team on a variety of work such as planning, policy development, and quality assurance.
- Owning aspects of policy delivery, including management of risks and issues.
- Drafting and coordinating high-quality communications, including briefings and ministerial correspondence.
- Contributing to the development of legislative documentation, such as fact sheets, speaking notes and Bill documentation.
- Managing relationships with stakeholders, internally and externally.
We are a Disability Confident employer and offer an interview to any applicant who declares they have a disability and meets the minimum criteria for the role.
Policy Advisor 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 development and well-being. As a Policy Advisor, you will have the unique opportunity to contribute to meaningful environmental initiatives while benefiting from flexible working arrangements and comprehensive support for career growth. Located in the heart of the UK government, Defra offers a dynamic environment where your contributions directly impact the sustainability of our communities and natural resources.
Contact Detail:
Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs (DEFRA) Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Policy Advisor
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the industry, especially those connected to Defra. Attend events, join relevant online forums, and don’t be shy about asking for informational interviews. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching Defra’s current projects and priorities. Show us that you’re not just interested in the role but also passionate about their mission. Tailor your responses to highlight how your skills can help them achieve their goals.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice makes perfect! Conduct mock interviews with friends or mentors to refine your answers. Focus on articulating your experiences in policy development and stakeholder management, as these are key for a Policy Advisor role.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, we often have exclusive opportunities listed there that you won’t find anywhere else. So, get clicking!
We think you need these skills to ace Policy Advisor
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to highlight how your skills and experiences align with the role of a Policy Advisor at Defra. We want to see how you can contribute to making the air purer and the land greener!
Showcase Your Communication Skills:Since you'll be drafting policy papers and coordinating communications, it's crucial to demonstrate your writing prowess. Use clear, concise language and provide examples of your previous work that showcase your ability to communicate effectively.
Highlight Stakeholder Engagement:As a Policy Advisor, you'll be managing relationships with various stakeholders. Share any relevant experiences where you've successfully collaborated or engaged with others to achieve common goals. We love seeing teamwork in action!
Apply Through Our Website:Don't forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensure you’re considered for this exciting opportunity to shape policies that impact everyday lives.
How to prepare for a job interview at Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs (DEFRA)
✨Know Your Policy Stuff
Make sure you brush up on current environmental policies and issues relevant to Defra. Familiarise yourself with their key priorities and recent initiatives. This will show that you're genuinely interested and ready to contribute.
✨Stakeholder Savvy
Since you'll be working with various stakeholders, think about how you can demonstrate your relationship management skills. Prepare examples of how you've successfully collaborated with others in the past, especially in a policy context.
✨Drafting Skills Matter
As a Policy Advisor, you'll be drafting important documents. Bring along samples of your writing or be ready to discuss your experience with creating briefings or policy papers. Highlight your attention to detail and ability to communicate complex ideas clearly.
✨Flexibility is Key
Defra values adaptability, so be prepared to discuss how you've handled changing priorities in previous roles. Share specific examples that showcase your ability to pivot and still deliver quality work under pressure.
