At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead impactful public affairs activities and influence policy for the MND community.
- Company: Join the MND Association, a respected voice in health advocacy.
- Benefits: Enjoy 28 days holiday, healthcare access, and hybrid working options.
- Other info: Dynamic role with opportunities for personal development and career growth.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in the lives of those affected by MND.
- Qualifications: Experience in public affairs and strong relationship-building skills required.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 50000 £ per year.
We are looking for a strategic and proactive Public Affairs Manager - Westminster and Devolved Nations with a strong understanding of how political decisions are shaped and influenced. In this role, you will lead high-impact activity across Westminster, the Senedd and Stormont, ensuring the Motor Neurone Disease (MND) Association is respected and recognised as an effective voice for the MND community. You will bring experience of influencing policy, ideally within health, social care or research. You will build trusted relationships with senior stakeholders and turn insight into action that delivers meaningful change. You thrive in a fast-moving environment, confidently managing competing demands while staying focused on outcomes. You know how to identify opportunities, respond to political developments and position the MND Association to influence decisions where it matters most. This is a fantastic opportunity for you to utilise your expertise to drive real impact, ensuring the MND Association continues to shape policy and improve outcomes for people affected by MND.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead public affairs activity across Westminster and the devolved nations
- Build and maintain senior relationships with parliamentarians and stakeholders
- Represent the MND Association at parliamentary meetings and events
- Provide the secretariat for the All-Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) on MND
- Align public affairs work with campaigns and policy priorities
- Monitor and advise on political developments impacting people with MND
- Lead party conference engagement and political outreach
- Manage and support a team of public affairs professionals
- Oversee political monitoring and external suppliers
- Represent the MND Association across Whitehall and devolved forums
About You
- Excellent understanding of Westminster and political processes
- Knowledge of the Senedd and Stormont, and how health and social care policy works in Wales and Northern Ireland
- Experience influencing policy, ideally in health, social care or research
- Proven ability to build relationships to deliver change
- Confident communicator with strong written and verbal skills
- Experience leading teams in-person and remotely
- Excellent understanding of the wider political landscape
Hybrid working expectations: London office attendance at least one day per week, in line with any in-person meetings. Able to be in Westminster regularly and at short notice, and available for occasional evening and weekend work.
What We Offer
- 28 days holiday, increasing to 33 days after 5 years, plus Bank Holidays
- Access to UK Healthcare, including dental, eyecare, health screenings, and therapies
- 24/7 GP access via phone and video
- Life assurance and confidential counselling helplines
- Salary sacrifice schemes (Cycle to Work, Buy/Sell Annual Leave)
- Access to Benefit Hub for discounts on everyday shopping
- Enhanced pension scheme
- Opportunities for training and personal development
- Hybrid working
About Us
Motor Neurone Disease moves fast. It takes away time, it takes away independence and it has no cure. Every day we support people affected by MND. We fund ground-breaking research. We campaign for better care. We’re here for everyone who needs us. Because with MND, every day matters.
Public Affairs Manager employer: Motor Neurone Disease (MND) Association
The MND Association is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment where your expertise as a Public Affairs Manager can drive significant change for the MND community. With a strong commitment to employee growth, hybrid working options, and comprehensive benefits including enhanced holiday entitlement and access to UK healthcare, you will thrive in a culture that values inclusivity and collaboration. Join us in Westminster, where your strategic influence can make a real difference in shaping health and social care policy.
Contact Details:
Motor Neurone Disease (MND) Association Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Public Affairs Manager
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with people in the public affairs space. Attend events, join relevant groups, and don’t be shy about reaching out to folks on LinkedIn. Building those relationships can open doors you didn’t even know existed.
✨Tip Number 2
Stay updated on political developments. Follow the news, subscribe to relevant newsletters, and engage with policy discussions online. This knowledge will not only help you in interviews but also show that you’re genuinely passionate about the role and the MND community.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! Be ready to articulate how your experience aligns with the MND Association’s mission. Prepare examples of how you’ve influenced policy or built relationships in the past, and make sure you can communicate them clearly and confidently.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the MND Association and making a difference in the lives of those affected by MND.
We think you need these skills to ace Public Affairs Manager
Some tips for your application 🫡
Know Your Stuff:Before you start writing, make sure you really understand the role and the MND Association's mission. Dive into the job description and think about how your experience aligns with what we're looking for. This will help you tailor your application and show us you're the right fit!
Be Authentic:When you're writing your application, let your personality shine through! We want to get a sense of who you are, so don’t be afraid to share your passion for public affairs and how it connects to your experiences. Authenticity goes a long way in making your application stand out.
Showcase Your Impact:We love seeing how you've made a difference in your previous roles. Use specific examples to highlight your achievements in influencing policy or building relationships. This will demonstrate your ability to drive real change, which is exactly what we need in a Public Affairs Manager.
Apply Through Our Website:Once you’ve polished your application, make sure to submit it through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it shows you’re keen on joining our team at the MND Association!
How to prepare for a job interview at Motor Neurone Disease (MND) Association
✨Know Your Political Landscape
Make sure you have a solid grasp of the political processes in Westminster, the Senedd, and Stormont. Brush up on recent developments in health and social care policy, especially those affecting MND. This knowledge will help you demonstrate your expertise and show that you're ready to hit the ground running.
✨Build Relationships Before the Interview
If possible, try to connect with current or former employees of the MND Association or similar organisations. Understanding their experiences can give you valuable insights into the culture and expectations, which you can reference during your interview to show your genuine interest.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that ask how you would handle specific situations, like responding to a sudden political change or managing stakeholder relationships. Think of examples from your past experience where you've successfully influenced policy or built trust with senior stakeholders, and be ready to share them.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
As a Public Affairs Manager, strong communication is key. Practice articulating your thoughts clearly and confidently. You might even want to prepare a brief pitch about why you’re passionate about MND and how you can contribute to the association’s mission, as this will highlight your commitment and enthusiasm.
