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- Tasks: Lead the External Affairs team and develop strategic stakeholder engagement plans.
- Company: Join the MHRA, a key player in health regulation and public safety.
- Benefits: Flexible hybrid working, professional development, and a chance to make a real impact.
- Other info: Opportunity for career growth in a dynamic and impactful environment.
- Why this job: Shape external communications and enhance the agency's influence across various sectors.
- Qualifications: Proven leadership experience and strong communication skills required.
The predicted salary is between 55000 - 65000 £ per year.
About the Agency
The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) enhances and improves the health of millions of people every day through the effective regulation of medicines and medical devices, underpinned by science and research. Our Communications and Engagement Directorate is a high‑performing, award‑winning team that puts patients and the public at the heart of everything we do. This role sits within the Communications team, which leads on external affairs, strategic communications, planning, insight and evaluation.
About the Role
The Head of External Affairs is a senior leadership role with significant visibility and influence across the Agency and externally. You will provide strategic advice and leadership to ensure the MHRA’s external engagement supports delivery of our corporate priorities and strengthens our reputation. You will lead a newly established External Affairs team and be responsible for creating and delivering an integrated, insight‑led external affairs strategy. The role spans strategic stakeholder engagement, public affairs and external advocacy, with a strong focus on building confidence, nurturing critical relationships and enhancing MHRA’s influence across government, industry, academia and public interest groups. Success will be measured through the quality and impact of stakeholder relationships, the use of insight to inform Agency activity, and the contribution of external engagement to organisational outcomes and reputation. The role will be based in 10 South Colonnade, Canary Wharf, London, E14 4PU, with occasional travel to South Mimms, Hertfordshire or other locations.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead and develop the External Affairs team, setting a clear strategic direction and fostering collaboration, high performance and professional development.
- Develop and oversee the MHRA’s external affairs and stakeholder engagement plans, ensuring alignment with Agency priorities and effective coordination across the organisation.
- Build and maintain strong, trusted relationships with influential external stakeholders across government, the health and life sciences sectors, academia and patient groups.
- Plan and deliver high‑profile external engagement activity, including events, roundtables and consultations, working closely with internal colleagues.
Qualifications and Experience
- Proven senior leadership experience, including leading and developing multidisciplinary teams.
- Substantial experience delivering complex external affairs programmes and projects.
- Demonstrable ability to understand stakeholder needs and translate insight into effective organisational action.
- Excellent communication and influencing skills, with confidence to engage, challenge and advise at senior levels.
- Strong planning, project management and problem‑solving skills, with an ability to operate at pace and manage competing priorities.
Position Availability
This vacancy is open to all Civil Service employees and employees of accredited non‑departmental public bodies who were appointed on merit following a fair and open competition; or were appointed to a permanent post through an exception in the Civil Service Commissioners' rules.
Work Arrangement
Full‑time, permanent. We are implementing a flexible, hybrid way of working with a minimum of 8 days per month working on site, up to 12 days as business needs require.
Additional Information
Closing date: 19th May 2026. Shortlisting starts 20th May 2026. Interview scheduled 3rd June 2026.
Head of External Affairs employer: Medicines and Healthcare Products Regulatory Agency
Contact Detail:
Medicines and Healthcare Products Regulatory Agency Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of External Affairs
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the industry, attend events, and connect with professionals on LinkedIn. Building relationships can open doors that a CV just can't.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the agency and its current projects. Show us you’re genuinely interested in the MHRA and how your skills can contribute to their mission.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! Be ready to articulate your vision for the External Affairs role and how you plan to enhance stakeholder engagement. Confidence is key!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take that extra step.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of External Affairs
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the Head of External Affairs role. Highlight your leadership experience and how it aligns with the strategic direction of the MHRA. We want to see how you can bring your unique skills to our team!
Showcase Your Stakeholder Engagement Skills: In your application, emphasise your experience in building relationships with external stakeholders. We’re looking for someone who can effectively engage with government, industry, and academia, so share specific examples that demonstrate your success in this area.
Communicate Clearly and Confidently: Your written application should reflect your excellent communication skills. Be clear and concise, and make sure to convey your ability to influence at senior levels. Remember, we want to see your personality shine through while maintaining professionalism!
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our official website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, it shows us you’re serious about joining our amazing team at the MHRA.
How to prepare for a job interview at Medicines and Healthcare Products Regulatory Agency
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you thoroughly understand the role of Head of External Affairs and the key responsibilities outlined in the job description. Familiarise yourself with the MHRA's mission, recent initiatives, and how external affairs play a crucial role in their strategy.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Prepare examples that demonstrate your senior leadership experience and how you've successfully led multidisciplinary teams. Be ready to discuss specific projects where you’ve developed stakeholder engagement plans and how they aligned with organisational priorities.
✨Build Rapport with Stakeholders
Think about how you would approach building relationships with various stakeholders, from government officials to patient groups. Have a few strategies in mind that highlight your ability to nurture trust and influence, as this is key for the role.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that ask how you would handle specific situations related to external affairs and stakeholder engagement. Practice articulating your thought process and decision-making skills, especially in high-pressure scenarios or when managing competing priorities.