At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead strategic public affairs initiatives and develop impactful communication strategies.
- Company: Boutique consultancy known for its innovative approach and strong client relationships.
- Benefits: Opportunity for ownership, professional growth, and shaping the future of the agency.
- Why this job: Join a dynamic team at a pivotal growth phase and make a real impact.
- Qualifications: Extensive experience in public affairs and strong networks in UK politics.
- Other info: Collaborative culture with a focus on mentoring and team development.
The predicted salary is between 80000 - 120000 £ per year.
Our client is an independent, boutique communications and public affairs consultancy working with a range of high-profile organisations across corporate, policy and reputational issues. The firm has built a strong reputation for delivering thoughtful, strategic advice and integrated campaigns. The agency is entering an exciting phase of growth and evolution. With an ambitious leadership team and a collaborative culture, it offers the opportunity to shape both client work and the direction of the business as it scales.
The Opportunity
This is a senior leadership role for an experienced public affairs professional who combines strategic counsel with strong commercial instincts. The Director will play a central role in guiding client programmes, developing new business opportunities and strengthening the agency’s senior capability. Joining at a pivotal moment in the firm’s growth, the successful candidate will help deepen client relationships, support the expansion of the agency’s portfolio and contribute to the development of a high-performing team. The role would suit someone seeking genuine ownership and responsibility within a growing consultancy environment, with the opportunity to influence decisions, shape ways of working, and play an active role in the development of both the team and the wider business.
Main Responsibilities
- Provide senior strategic counsel to clients, developing integrated public affairs and communications strategies that deliver measurable impact
- Lead and grow key client relationships, acting as a trusted adviser to senior stakeholders
- Identify and drive new business opportunities, contributing to the agency’s continued commercial growth
- Lead and contribute to pitches, proposals and scope development for prospective and existing clients
- Oversee account delivery to ensure high-quality, insight‑led work across public affairs, policy and media engagement
- Support the development and mentoring of consultants, strengthening capability across the team
- Monitor political and policy developments to inform client strategies and identify emerging opportunities
- Contribute to the wider leadership of the business, supporting operational planning and the agency’s long‑term growth
Skills & Experience
- Significant experience in public affairs, strategic communications or political advisory roles within an agency
- Strong understanding of UK politics and policy, with well‑developed networks across the political and stakeholder landscape
- Proven track record of managing senior client relationships and delivering strategic counsel
- Demonstrable experience contributing to or leading new business development and commercial growth
- Experience leading, mentoring and developing teams in a fast‑paced consultancy environment
- Commercial awareness and the ability to balance client delivery with business objectives
- Excellent communication and stakeholder engagement skills
- A collaborative leadership style and a proactive, solutions‑focused approach
Director (Public Affairs) in London employer: Ellwood Atfield
Contact Detail:
Ellwood Atfield Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Director (Public Affairs) in London
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with industry folks on LinkedIn or at events. Building relationships can open doors to opportunities that aren’t even advertised.
✨Tip Number 2
Showcase your expertise! Consider writing articles or sharing insights on public affairs topics. This not only positions you as a thought leader but also gets you noticed by potential employers.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by researching the company’s recent projects and challenges. Tailor your responses to show how your experience aligns with their needs, especially in strategic counsel and client relationships.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! We’re always looking for talented individuals who can contribute to our growth and success. Your next big opportunity could be just a click away!
We think you need these skills to ace Director (Public Affairs) in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight your experience in public affairs and strategic communications. We want to see how your skills align with the role, so don’t hold back on showcasing your relevant achievements!
Showcase Your Leadership Skills: As a Director, you'll need to demonstrate your ability to lead and mentor teams. Share examples of how you've developed others and contributed to team success in your previous roles. We love seeing candidates who can inspire and elevate those around them!
Highlight Your Commercial Acumen: This role requires a strong understanding of business growth and client relationships. Be sure to include any experiences where you’ve driven new business opportunities or managed key client accounts. We’re looking for that commercial instinct!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to submit your application through our website. It’s the best way for us to keep track of your application and ensure it gets the attention it deserves. Plus, it shows you’re keen to join our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Ellwood Atfield
✨Know Your Client
Before the interview, dive deep into the consultancy's recent projects and client relationships. Understanding their approach to public affairs and communications will help you demonstrate how your experience aligns with their needs.
✨Showcase Your Strategic Mindset
Prepare to discuss specific examples where you've provided strategic counsel in previous roles. Highlight how your insights led to measurable impacts for clients, as this is crucial for a Director position.
✨Demonstrate Business Acumen
Be ready to talk about how you've identified and driven new business opportunities in the past. This role requires a balance between client delivery and commercial growth, so showcasing your commercial instincts will be key.
✨Engage with Leadership Style
Since this role involves mentoring and developing teams, think about your leadership style. Prepare to share how you've successfully led teams in fast-paced environments and contributed to their growth and capability.