At a Glance
- Tasks: Influence public policy and advocate for people affected by MS in Scotland.
- Company: Join a vibrant organisation dedicated to supporting the MS community.
- Benefits: Enjoy 38 days annual leave, flexible working, and enhanced family-friendly benefits.
- Other info: Remote work options and excellent career growth opportunities await you.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in people's lives while developing your career in public affairs.
- Qualifications: Experience in policy development and strong communication skills required.
The predicted salary is between 26384 - 29682 £ per year.
Location: Home-based in Scotland
Salary: £26,384 a year plus excellent benefits
Closing date: 9am Monday 1 June
About us
We make sure people living with MS are at the centre of everything we do. And it’s this commitment that unites us across the UK. Our strategy is based on what people affected by MS have told us is important to them. It gives us a clear and determined focus. Our work is based on the hopes and aspirations of our MS community. Together we campaign at all levels, fund ground-breaking research and provide award winning support and information. Our people are our greatest asset and the key to our success. We offer a vibrant, progressive working environment where you'll be able to make a difference.
About this job
We’re looking for an enthusiastic and talented policy and public affairs professional to join our team. You should have experience of working to develop policy and have the ability to communicate our position to a wide range of audiences across Scotland. In this exciting role you'll work with the MS community to influence change in public policy, continuing to make the case for improvements in the treatment, care and support of people affected by MS.
Responsibilities
- Understands the political and policy environment in Scotland
- Has experience in external facing influencing roles
- Is outcome-focused and delivers tangible results
The successful candidate will work closely with the MS community, the Scottish Policy and Communications team, and key external partners such as MSPs and their teams.
Application details
We’d be grateful if you downloaded and completed the equality and diversity monitoring form and submit it with your application. We particularly welcome applications from disabled people and/or people from minoritised ethnic backgrounds. If you'd like to discuss the role in confidence first, please contact our HR team by email.
Your right to work in the UK
You must have the right to work in the UK to work in paid employment with us. You’ll need to share documents showing you’re eligible to work in the UK if we offer you employment. We currently don’t have a Sponsor Licence agreement with the Home Office and aren’t able to support you with your visa applications.
Disability Confident Employer
We’re a Disability Confident Employer and we’re committed to promoting equality and diversity. You can ask for reasonable adjustments as part of both our recruitment and new starter on-boarding processes.
Recruitment and selection process
The first round of our recruitment and selection process includes an interview with competency-based questions. Our recruitment and selection process might also include extra tasks. For example, a written or Microsoft Excel test or making a presentation. We’ll let you know what the selection process will include when we invite you to interview.
Employee benefits
- Encouraging work life balance
- 38 days paid annual leave (including bank holidays), pro-rata for part-time
- More annual leave entitlement, based on length of employment
- Smart working options (with the opportunity to work remotely)
- Flexible working options
- More sick pay entitlement, based on length of employment
- Free access to a GP virtually 24 hours a day/7 days a week
- Enhanced leave for new parents
- Free access to a confidential helpline service for both you and your family
- 10 days paid disability leave a year, pro-rata for part-time
- New family-friendly benefits, including paid leave in the event of miscarriage/stillbirth
- Cycle to work scheme
- Enhanced salary sacrifice pension scheme
- Discounted season ticket loan and interest-free emergency loans
- New employee portal including lifestyle savings vouchers and personal wellbeing
- Personalised development plans with a wide range of training courses
- Yearly internal apprenticeship opportunities
- Active and supportive internal employee networking groups
- 2 days paid leave a year for volunteering for MS Society activities
Safeguarding
We’re committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of everyone who uses our services and we come into contact with. We recognise our particular responsibility to make sure vulnerable adults and children are protected.
Policy and Public Affairs officer (Scotland) employer: MS Society UK
As a leading organisation dedicated to supporting individuals affected by MS, we pride ourselves on being an excellent employer that values our people as our greatest asset. With a vibrant and progressive work culture, we offer extensive benefits including flexible working options, generous annual leave, and personalised development plans to foster employee growth. Our home-based role in Scotland allows you to make a meaningful impact while enjoying a supportive environment that prioritises work-life balance and inclusivity.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Policy and Public Affairs officer (Scotland)
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to folks in the MS community and related sectors. Attend events, webinars, or even local meet-ups to connect with people who can give you insights or even refer you for the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for those competency-based questions! Think about your past experiences and how they relate to the job. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your answers and show off your skills.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t forget to research! Get clued up on current policies affecting the MS community in Scotland. This will not only help you in interviews but also show your genuine interest in the role and organisation.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining us and making a difference in the lives of those affected by MS.
We think you need these skills to ace Policy and Public Affairs officer (Scotland)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the Policy and Public Affairs officer role. Highlight your experience in policy development and your understanding of the political landscape in Scotland. We want to see how you can make a difference!
Show Your Passion:Let your enthusiasm for working with the MS community shine through in your application. Share any relevant experiences or projects that demonstrate your commitment to influencing public policy and improving lives.
Be Clear and Concise:When writing your application, keep it straightforward and to the point. Use clear language to communicate your skills and experiences, making it easy for us to see why you’re the right fit for the role.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your materials and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity. Plus, it’s super easy!
How to prepare for a job interview at MS Society UK
✨Know Your Stuff
Before the interview, dive deep into the current policies affecting people with MS in Scotland. Familiarise yourself with recent developments and how they impact the community. This will show your genuine interest and understanding of the role.
✨Practice Makes Perfect
Since the interview includes competency-based questions, practice your responses to common scenarios you might face in policy and public affairs. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your answers effectively.
✨Engage with the Community
Demonstrate your commitment to the MS community by sharing any relevant experiences or interactions you've had. Whether it's volunteering or attending events, showing that you’re actively involved will resonate well with the interviewers.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Prepare a few insightful questions about the organisation's current initiatives or future goals. This not only shows your enthusiasm but also helps you gauge if the role aligns with your values and aspirations.
