Deputy Director, External Affairs in London

Transport Focus is the independent watchdog representing the voice of transport users across Britain. At a pivotal moment of reform and growth, we are strengthening our leadership team to drive greater influence, visibility, and impact across the sector. This is a high-profile, newly created Deputy Director role, offering the opportunity to sit at the intersection of policy, communications, and public affairs - and play a leading role in the launch of a strengthened national watchdog.

Why this role stands out

• Visible national impact - Shape how transport policy affects millions of passengers and road users
• New function to shape - Bring together policy and communications into a cohesive external affairs capability
• High-profile stakeholder engagement - Influence government, regulators, industry, and media
• Watchdog launch leadership - Play a central role in building credibility and public trust ahead of April roll out
• Exceptional benefits - 30 days leave + Civil Service pension (28.9% employer contribution)
• Growth environment - Join an organisation doubling in size with strong internal culture and retention

The opportunity

Reporting to the Director of Strategy, Insight & External Affairs, you will lead a critical function that ensures policy, insight, and communications are aligned to deliver real impact. You will:

• Lead a high-performing policy, external affairs and communications division to drive measurable outcomes
• Translate policy positions into clear, compelling narratives that resonate externally
• Build a strong public affairs capability, increasing influence with political, media, and industry stakeholders
• Support the organisation's next phase of growth, including the launch of an enhanced transport watchdog
• Ensure that insight and evidence underpin all external engagement and positioning

What you'll bring

We're looking for a strategic leader with a hybrid mindset - someone who can bridge policy development and external influence. You will offer:

• Senior experience in policy, public affairs, or strategic communications (with ability to span both)
• A track record of influencing senior stakeholders across government, regulators, or industry
• Strong political awareness and experience operating in complex, publicly accountable environments
• Proven leadership of teams and the ability to deliver through others at scale
• The judgement to navigate high-profile, sensitive issues and balance competing interests

Transport experience is not essential; what matters is your ability to apply insight, influence effectively, and operate at senior level in complex, regulated systems.

About the team and environment

You will lead an established team across policy and communications, working in close partnership with insight and data colleagues to ensure a seamless link between evidence, strategy, and external delivery. Transport Focus offers a highly collaborative, mission-led culture, with strong engagement scores and a clear focus on delivering public value.

Additional and Application Information

This role will be based at either their London or Manchester Office, 2 days a week (hybrid). Salary is up to 86,000pa with 28.9% civil service pension. Application deadline is 23:59, Sunday 21st June. No cover letter required, but please ensure all relevant experience is highlighted on your CV. Full UK right to work required. Sponsorship not available.

Our commitments to diversity and inclusion

Transport Focus is committed to building a diverse and inclusive organisation that reflects the people and communities we serve. We welcome applications from candidates of all backgrounds.