At a Glance
- Tasks: Shape Merton's future by influencing policy and providing strategic advice to leaders.
- Company: Join one of London's most ambitious councils driving significant change.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, dynamic work environment, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Engage with senior stakeholders and be at the forefront of innovative practices.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in local government and help shape public services.
- Qualifications: Strong political awareness, analytical skills, and excellent communication abilities.
The predicted salary is between 48003 - 52194 £ per year.
Grade/Salary £48,003-£52,194 per annum
Help shape the future of one of London's most ambitious councils.
Merton is changing.
We're delivering one of London's most ambitious regeneration programmes.
We're creating London's first Borough of Sport.
We're transforming services around neighbourhoods and prevention.
And we're determined to ensure Merton has a stronger voice nationally on the issues that matter to our residents.
We're looking for an exceptional Policy and Public Affairs Officer to help make that happen.
This is a rare opportunity to work at the heart of a modern, ambitious council, providing strategic policy advice to senior leaders, influencing policy-decision and helping position Merton as one of local government's leading voices.
You’ll work directly with senior officers and members, turning complex national policy into practical action and ensuring Merton is ahead of the curve.
What you’ll do.
No two days will be the same. You’ll
- Monitor Government policy, legislation and parliamentary activity, identifying opportunities and risks for the council.
- Provide strategic policy advice and political intelligence to senior leaders.
- Coordinate responses to Government consultations and national policy reviews.
- Organise ministerial visits, parliamentary engagement and stakeholder events.
- Research innovative practice from across the UK and beyond to help shape better public services.
- Help ensure Merton is recognised as a council that doesn't just respond to change but helps shape it.
About you
We're looking for someone who combines excellent political awareness with first-class analytical and communication skills.
You’ll be someone who knows how Government works, can quickly make sense of complex policy and explain it clearly, builds strong relationships with senior stakeholders, has excellent judgement, and enjoys spotting opportunities others miss.
- Working for us | Work for Merton | Merton Council
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Policy and Public Affairs Officer in London employer: Merton Council
Merton Council is an exceptional employer, offering a unique opportunity to work at the forefront of local government in one of London's most dynamic boroughs. With a strong commitment to employee development, a collaborative work culture, and the chance to influence significant policy changes, you will be part of a team dedicated to making a real difference in the community. Enjoy competitive salaries, a supportive environment, and the satisfaction of shaping public services that truly matter to residents.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Policy and Public Affairs Officer in London
✨Dive into Local Government Events
Get yourself to local government events and public sector job fairs. These are great for meeting recruiters and understanding what different organisations, like Merton Council, are looking for. Plus, it shows your genuine interest in the sector!
✨Join Relevant Networks
Look for communities focused on public sector careers. Whether it’s local networking groups or online forums, connecting with professionals in the field can provide insider knowledge and opportunities that you won’t find on typical job boards.
✨Utilise Your University’s Resources
If you’re freshly graduated or still studying, make the most of your university's careers service. They often have exclusive partnerships with companies like Merton Council and can help you get your foot in the door for these full-time public sector roles.
✨Stay Updated with Government Initiatives
Keep your finger on the pulse regarding new government projects and policies. Understanding current initiatives can give you a leg up in interviews, showing that you are informed and genuinely interested in making a difference in the public sector.
We think you need these skills to ace Policy and Public Affairs Officer in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Relevant Experience:In the public sector, having experience in community engagement, policy analysis, or project management stands out. Make sure to showcase any previous roles or volunteer work that reflects your understanding of public service values and how they've shaped your career path.
Showcase Your Knowledge of the Sector:When you’re applying for a government role, it’s crucial to demonstrate your understanding of the current political landscape and public policies. Consider including articles you've written or relevant projects that underline your capability to engage with these concepts effectively.
Tailor Your CV to Reflect Core Competencies:Government positions often require a clear demonstration of competencies such as communication, teamwork, and problem-solving. Try to structure your CV to highlight these skills, using specific examples of how you’ve applied them in past experiences, ideally with quantifiable outcomes where possible.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to tell your story and convey your passion for public service. Discuss why you want to work for Merton Council and how your values align with their mission. Be genuine and let your enthusiasm shine through—this can really set you apart from other candidates.
How to prepare for a job interview at Merton Council
✨Get to Know Public Sector Values
Before your interview with Merton Council, dig deep into their mission and values, especially how they align with public service and community impact. Understand the key policies or initiatives they are involved in – you’ll want to show that you genuinely care about serving the community.
✨Brush Up on Regulatory Knowledge
Brush up on the regulations, laws, and compliance standards relevant to the role you’re applying for. Since this is the government and public sector, they might throw technical questions related to policy frameworks or project management best practices that you'll need to navigate day-to-day.
✨Highlight Teamwork and Collaboration
The government sector thrives on collaboration. Be ready to discuss how you've successfully worked in diverse teams or involved stakeholders in your projects. Show us how you bring people together to get a common goal achieved – that's what public service is all about!
✨Prepare Real-Life Examples
Craft a few STAR (Situation, Task, Action, Result) stories that demonstrate your experience in similar roles. Whether it’s a project that made a difference in the community or a challenging situation you managed, be ready to express how your skills and experiences make you a valuable asset for Merton Council.
