At a Glance
- Tasks: Shape government policy on tourism and hospitality while leading a dynamic public affairs team.
- Company: Join IHG Hotels & Resorts, a global leader in hospitality with a collaborative culture.
- Benefits: Enjoy impressive room discounts, recharge days, and wellbeing support.
- Other info: Fast-paced role with opportunities for professional growth and diverse perspectives.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in the tourism sector and engage with senior leaders.
- Qualifications: Experience in public affairs and knowledge of UK government processes required.
The predicted salary is between 75000 - 100000 € per year.
We’re looking for someone to help shape the future of government policy on tourism and hospitality, making sure the sector’s voice is heard where those decisions get made. This is a 12‑month fixed‑term contract for a Director of Public Affairs based at IHG’s global HQ in Windsor, partnering with senior leaders, a small team, and raising the sector’s profile with government and industry.
What you’ll do:
- Lead our Global (PLC) public affairs strategy and oversee the development and execution of our UK public affairs work, from owner engagement to MP correspondence.
- Support public affairs activity across our EMEA and Asia business units as required.
- Work with our Executive Committee, advising on political and policy matters and preparing them for high‑profile engagements.
- Represent IHG with governments, civil servants and industry.
- Manage relationships with trade and industry bodies representing our sector, including the CBI, British Chambers of Commerce, World Travel & Tourism Council, European Hotel Forum and others.
- Produce sharp, EC‑ready briefings and speaking points ahead of government and trade body meetings, public platforms and other relevant engagements.
- Manage and develop a small team.
- Monitor the political and industry landscape, spotting risks and opportunities early and shaping the IHG response.
What you’ll bring:
- Experience of working within a listed business and a matrix, global organisation.
- Significant public affairs experience, gained in‑house, in agency, in a UK government department or a mix of all three.
- A thorough working knowledge of UK government and parliament; you know how it really works and how decisions get made.
- Confidence and credibility with senior stakeholders, comfortable advising at ExCo level, and equally at home with a hotel General Manager.
- Experience leading a public affairs team with the instinct to bring people with you.
- Pace – this is a busy, high‑profile brief and you’ll move quickly without dropping quality.
Benefits:
- Impressive room discounts across IHG properties.
- Recharge days and volunteering days throughout the year.
- Support for wellbeing through the myWellbeing framework.
Closing date for applications: Friday 5th June 2026.
IHG Hotels & Resorts provides equal employment opportunities to applicants and employees without regard to race, colour, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, disability or any other category protected by applicable laws. We promote a culture of trust, support, and acceptance, welcoming diverse backgrounds, experiences and perspectives.
Director of Public Affairs in England employer: InterContinental Hotels Group
IHG Hotels & Resorts is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment at our global HQ in Windsor, where you can influence government policy in the tourism and hospitality sector. With impressive benefits such as room discounts, recharge and volunteering days, and a strong focus on employee wellbeing, we foster a culture of trust and support, providing ample opportunities for professional growth and collaboration with senior leaders in a high-profile role.
Contact Detail:
InterContinental Hotels Group Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Director of Public Affairs in England
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with people in the public affairs space. Attend industry events, join relevant online forums, and don’t be shy about reaching out to folks on LinkedIn. The more connections you make, the better your chances of landing that dream job.
✨Tip Number 2
Showcase your expertise! Create a portfolio or a personal blog where you can share insights on government policy and public affairs. This not only demonstrates your knowledge but also positions you as a thought leader in the field. Plus, it’s a great conversation starter during interviews!
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews like it’s the final exam! Research IHG’s current public affairs initiatives and think about how you can contribute. Be ready to discuss your past experiences and how they align with the role. Confidence is key, so practice your pitch until it’s smooth as butter.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive and engaged. So, hit that apply button and let’s get the ball rolling on your career in public affairs!
We think you need these skills to ace Director of Public Affairs in England
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the Director of Public Affairs role. Highlight your experience in public affairs and how it aligns with IHG's goals. We want to see how you can shape the future of government policy in tourism and hospitality!
Showcase Your Experience:Don’t just list your previous roles; tell us about your achievements! Use specific examples that demonstrate your public affairs expertise and your ability to engage with senior stakeholders. We love a good story that shows how you’ve made an impact.
Be Clear and Concise:When writing your application, keep it straightforward. We appreciate clarity and brevity, especially when it comes to complex topics like government policy. Make sure your key points stand out so we can easily see why you’re the right fit for the job.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to submit your application through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets into the right hands. Plus, you’ll find all the details you need about the role and our company culture there!
How to prepare for a job interview at InterContinental Hotels Group
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you have a solid understanding of the UK government and parliament. Brush up on recent policies affecting tourism and hospitality, as well as IHG's role in the industry. This knowledge will help you speak confidently about how you can shape public affairs strategy.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Prepare to discuss your previous roles in public affairs, especially any experience within a listed business or global organisation. Be ready to share specific examples of how you've successfully managed relationships with stakeholders and influenced policy decisions.
✨Engage with the Team
Since you'll be managing a small team, demonstrate your leadership style during the interview. Talk about how you bring people together and foster collaboration. Highlight any past experiences where you’ve successfully led a team through a busy period without compromising quality.
✨Prepare Sharp Briefings
Practice creating concise and impactful briefings or speaking points. You might be asked to present your ideas or strategies during the interview, so having a few well-prepared examples will show that you can deliver high-quality work under pressure.
