At a Glance
- Tasks: Influence public policy and advocate for the MS community in Scotland.
- Company: Join a vibrant organisation dedicated to supporting people with MS.
- Benefits: 38 days annual leave, flexible working, and generous sick pay.
- Other info: Opportunities for personal development and volunteering.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in the lives of those affected by MS.
- Qualifications: Experience in policy development and strong communication skills.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
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 will 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. This is a fantastic opportunity for someone who understands the political and policy environment in Scotland, who has experience in external facing influencing roles, who is outcome‐focused and delivers tangible results. The successful candidate will work closely with the MS community, the Scottish Policy and Communications team as well as key external partners such as MSPs and their teams.
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 and find a smart working pattern that suits both you and us)
- Flexible working options
- Caring for you and your family
- Generous sick pay entitlement
- More sick pay entitlement, based on length of employment
- Opportunity to buy and sell annual leave in each calendar year
- Free access to a GP virtually 24 hours a day/7 days a week allowing you unlimited advice, reassurance and where appropriate diagnosis
- Enhanced leave for new parents
- Free access to a confidential 24 hours a day/7 days a week helpline service for both you and your family with a specialist range of support and information
- Special leave options (such as up to 5 days paid leave for domestic or personal emergencies a year)
- 10 days paid disability leave a year, pro‐rata for part‐time
- 10 days paid carers' leave a year, pro‐rata for part‐time
- Cycle to work scheme
- Death in service scheme
- New family‐friendly benefits, including paid leave in the event of miscarriage or still birth to support fertility treatments and antenatal appointments for both parents
- Enhanced salary sacrifice pension scheme
- Discounted season ticket loan and interest‐free emergency loans
- Give as you earn to support other charities of your choice before tax
- New employee portal including lifestyle savings vouchers and personal wellbeing
- Personalised development plans with a wide range of training courses and opportunities to source additional training options with your line manager
- Yearly internal apprenticeship opportunities
- New, modern offices that embrace working together both in‐person and remotely
- Various opportunities to influence how we internally operate (including surveys, focus and committee groups)
- Active and supportive internal employee networking groups for collaboration and peer support
- 2 days paid leave a year for volunteering for MS Society activities during normal working hours (such as fundraising events, or campaigning in the local community)
- 2 days paid leave a year for volunteering with other charities during normal working hours
Safeguarding and Equality
We're committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of everyone who uses our services and we come into contact with. This is regardless of gender, race, disability, sexual orientation, religion or belief, pregnancy, gender reassignment. We recognise our particular responsibility to make sure vulnerable adults and children are protected. We have measures in place to protect everyone we come into contact with from abuse and maltreatment of all kinds. We are an equal opportunities employer. We are committed to promoting the welfare of all, regardless of gender, race, disability, sexual orientation, religion or belief, pregnancy, gender reassignment, and protecting the rights of vulnerable adults and children.
Policy and Public Affairs Officer (Scotland) in London employer: MS Society
As a leading organisation dedicated to supporting individuals affected by MS, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer that values our people as our greatest asset. Our vibrant and progressive work culture in Scotland fosters employee growth through personalised development plans, flexible working options, and generous benefits, including 38 days of paid annual leave and enhanced family-friendly policies. Join us to make a meaningful impact while enjoying a supportive environment that prioritises work-life balance and community engagement.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Policy and Public Affairs Officer (Scotland) in London
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the MS community and related fields. Attend events, join online forums, and connect with professionals on LinkedIn. The more connections we make, the better our chances of landing that dream job!
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your passion for MS advocacy! When you get the chance to chat with potential employers, share your personal experiences or insights about the MS community. This will help us stand out and demonstrate our commitment to making a difference.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by researching the organisation and its recent campaigns. We should be ready to discuss how our skills can contribute to their goals. Tailoring our responses to align with their mission will show that we’re the perfect fit!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure our application gets noticed. Plus, it shows we’re genuinely interested in being part of the team and making a positive impact in the MS community.
We think you need these skills to ace Policy and Public Affairs Officer (Scotland) in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Know Your Audience:Before you start writing, take a moment to understand who you're addressing. Tailor your application to resonate with the MS community and highlight how your experience aligns with their needs.
Showcase Your Passion:Let your enthusiasm shine through! Share why you're passionate about public affairs and how you can make a difference for people affected by MS. We want to see your commitment to the cause.
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application straightforward. Use clear language and avoid jargon. We appreciate a well-structured application that gets straight to the point while still showcasing your skills and experiences.
Apply Through Our Website:Make sure to submit your application through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity. We can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at MS Society
✨Know Your MS Community
Before the interview, take some time to understand the needs and aspirations of the MS community. Familiarise yourself with recent campaigns and policies that have impacted them. This will not only show your commitment but also help you articulate how you can contribute to their goals.
✨Master the Political Landscape
Brush up on the current political and policy environment in Scotland. Be prepared to discuss how recent legislation or public policy changes could affect people living with MS. This knowledge will demonstrate your expertise and readiness to engage with MSPs and other stakeholders.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
As a Policy and Public Affairs Officer, effective communication is key. Prepare examples of how you've successfully communicated complex policies to diverse audiences. Practice articulating your thoughts clearly and confidently, as this will be crucial in influencing change.
✨Be Outcome-Focused
During the interview, highlight your experience in delivering tangible results. Share specific examples of how your work has led to positive changes in policy or public perception. This will align with their focus on outcomes and show that you are results-driven.
