Account Director (Public Affairs) in London

Location: London (hybrid working)

Start Date: ASAP/End of summer

Application: Applications close 7th August (we will begin interviewing before closing date)

Salary: Competitive and dependant on experience

About Hanbury Strategy

We turn insight into impact. Whether a client is facing a communications challenge or has a policy goal, our exceptional team uses our understanding of politics, public opinion and the press to create campaigns that work. We have a relentless focus on achieving great results for our clients.

Founded in 2016, Hanbury is focused on delivering client excellence and growing our business across offices in London, Brussels, Washington D.C., and Sydney.

We are hiring a driven Public Affairs Account Director with expertise in complex client account management. The successful candidate will have an appetite for developing knowledge, networks, and skills in a fast-paced and collaborative working environment. You will shape strategic client priorities, deepen relationships, and contribute to Hanbury’s ongoing growth. As a key member of our high performing team, you will provide cutting-edge regulatory and political analysis and engagement advice to leading global companies across multiple sectors.

About You

This role requires experience in public affairs. However, at Hanbury we support clients across the whole communications spectrum. We are therefore open to candidates with experience across reputation, communications, politics and policy to help deliver excellence for our clients.

The ideal candidate profile:

• A solid understanding of the UK political and regulatory landscape and experience.
• Likely 3-5 years of professional experience working in government, politics, a regulator, consultancy, think tank, industry body or in-house public affairs roles.
• Dedication to producing high quality work and going the extra mile in a fast paced environment.
• Excellent interpersonal skills to cultivate respectful debate and is not afraid to take risks.
• Track record of managing projects and teams in a fast-paced, delivery-focused environment.
• Good organisational and problem-solving skills.
• Capable researcher and analyst, able to interpret complex subject matter at pace and turn into tailored, succinct insights.
• Strong communication skills, with the ability to provide clear, concise advice to stakeholders, both in written and verbal forms.
• A driven self-starter who works well independently but equally eager to be part of a dynamic team.
• Contributes to a positive working environment and enjoys working with people with a diverse range of backgrounds and opinions.

Role and Responsibilities.

Day to Day Account Deliverables

• Identify engagement opportunities for clients.
• Map and analyse policy risks and opportunities.
• Strengthen and deepen networks.
• Advise clients on public affairs strategies.

Client Management

• Build strong, trusted relationships with clients, acting as a key point of contact for day-to-day account management.
• Help shape client account strategic direction alongside senior colleagues.
• Oversee quality control across all outputs.
• Contribute to Hanbury’s house view on relevant policy developments.
• Provide strategic regulatory and political analysis, engagement advice.

Business Development

• Build and maintain a strong external network of contacts and prospects.
• Support the development of business development proposals and pitches.
• Identify opportunities for organic growth within existing accounts.
• Produce original written content, including policy papers, published blogs, research reports and marketing material.

Leadership & Development

• Line manage and mentor junior team members.
• Delegate effectively and support team development.
• Lead by example in work quality, collaboration, and professionalism.
• Contribute to internal training and knowledge sharing.

Culture

Account Directors support the development of a positive Hanbury culture and act as an advocate and ambassador for Hanbury both internally and externally.

Benefits

• 28 days’ paid leave plus bank holidays and time off over Christmas.
• Pension plan - 4% company contribution.
• Annual discretionary bonus scheme.
• Normal working hours are 9am - 6pm.
• Electric vehicle scheme.
• Nursery scheme.
• Cycle to work scheme and season ticket loan.
• The opportunity to opt in to Vitality including private health care and subsidised gym.
• We are a hybrid working employer.
• Work from abroad policy for up to 4 weeks a year.
• Access to a full social and cultural calendar and employee wellness programmes.
• A rich and diverse people development programme including fortnightly internal training sessions and a full annual programme of external trainers and inspirational speakers.

Equal Opportunities

Hanbury Strategy is an equal opportunities employer and welcomes applications from all suitably qualified persons regardless of age, disability, gender or gender reassignment, marital or civil partner status, pregnancy or maternity, race, religion or belief, colour, nationality, ethnic or national origin, sex or sexual orientation. As part of our commitment to equal opportunities, we are open to discussions about alternative working patterns or hours. Please let us know if you need any reasonable adjustments to be made during recruitment or in employment for reasons associated with your physical or mental health. We are committed to ensuring everyone is able to fully participate in whatever way is most appropriate for them.