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
We have a wide range of employee benefits including (but not limited to):
- 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
- Enriching your life at work
- 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) employer: MS Society
As a leading organisation dedicated to supporting individuals affected by MS, we pride ourselves on fostering a vibrant and progressive work culture in Scotland. Our commitment to employee wellbeing is reflected in our generous benefits package, including flexible working options, extensive leave entitlements, and personalised development plans that empower you to grow professionally while making a meaningful impact in the community.
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 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 impact on the MS community. We should be ready to discuss how our skills can contribute to their goals. Tailoring our responses to align with their mission will definitely impress them!
✨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 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 🫡
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 the values we uphold at StudySmarter. Show us that you get what matters to people affected by MS!
Be Clear and Concise:We love a good story, but when it comes to applications, clarity is key! Keep your language straightforward and avoid jargon. Make sure your experience shines through without unnecessary fluff.
Highlight Relevant Experience:Make sure to showcase your policy development and public affairs experience. We want to see how your background aligns with our mission. Use specific examples to demonstrate your impact in previous roles!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to submit your application through our website. It’s the best way for us to keep track of your application and ensure it gets the attention it deserves. Plus, it’s super easy!
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.
✨Showcase Your Influencing Skills
Prepare examples of how you've successfully influenced policy or public opinion in the past. Be ready to discuss specific strategies you used and the outcomes achieved. This will demonstrate your ability to navigate the political landscape in Scotland effectively.
✨Communicate Clearly and Confidently
Practice articulating your thoughts on complex policy issues in a clear and concise manner. The interviewers will be looking for your ability to communicate effectively with diverse audiences, so consider rehearsing with a friend or mentor to refine your delivery.
✨Align with Their Values
Research the organisation's values and mission statement. During the interview, express how your personal values align with theirs, particularly regarding safeguarding and equality. This connection can set you apart as a candidate who truly understands and supports their vision.
