At a Glance
- Tasks: Drive external affairs strategy and shape policy engagement for Future Biogas.
- Company: Future Biogas, a leader in energy transition and sustainability.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, performance bonus, excellent benefits, and hybrid working model.
- Other info: Join a dynamic team and grow your career in a leadership role.
- Why this job: Lead a new function with autonomy and make a real impact on energy policy.
- Qualifications: Degree in Public Affairs or related field; experience in public affairs or government relations.
The predicted salary is between 49500 - 60500 £ per year.
In this leadership role, you drive Future Biogas’s external affairs strategy to shape policy engagement and amplify the company’s voice with government, regulators, and key stakeholders. You will work closely with the CEO and senior leadership to build relationships that support growth and the energy transition. The role combines policy insight, communications, and business development to influence policy and opportunities across energy, agriculture and sustainability. You’ll lead a new function with autonomy and a clear impact on the company’s trajectory.
Pay / Benefits
- competitive salary with performance-related bonus
- excellent benefits package
- hybrid working model
- involvement with CEO and executive team
- growth opportunities in a new leadership role
- HQ in Guildford with new office in Surrey Research Park
Responsibilities
- Lead external affairs and budget for the function
- Enhance Future Biogas’s parliamentary profile and government stakeholder engagement
- Identify and influence policy developments across government and regulators
- Provide strategic advice on political and reputational issues with Policy and Comms teams
- Support business development and growth through stakeholder engagement
- Build and manage a small, high-performing team
- Represent the company in cross-functional contexts to align external affairs with strategy
Key requirements
- Degree or equivalent experience in Public Affairs, Politics, Communications, Business or related discipline
- Proven experience in public affairs, government relations or policy development in a related industry
- Excellent influencing, communication and stakeholder management skills
- Strong commercial awareness and strategic thinking
- Experience of leading and developing small, high-performing teams
- Relationship-building
- Strategic thinking
- Political awareness
- Credibility with senior stakeholders
- Proactive collaboration with cross-functional teams
Head of External Affairs employer: Murray McIntosh Associates
Join a forward-thinking company that prioritises employee growth and well-being, offering a unique blend of project management and hands-on design engineering in the water sector. With a commitment to long-term stability through secured funding until 2030, employees benefit from a structured pathway to chartership, flexible working arrangements, and a supportive work culture that values mentorship and collaboration. This role not only provides financial rewards but also the opportunity to make a meaningful impact on water and wastewater services across the South West.
Contact Details:
Murray McIntosh Associates Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of External Affairs
✨Dive into Local Government Events
Get yourself to local government events and public sector job fairs. These are great for meeting recruiters and understanding what different organisations, like Murray McIntosh Associates, are looking for. Plus, it shows your genuine interest in the sector!
✨Join Relevant Networks
Look for communities focused on public sector careers. Whether it’s local networking groups or online forums, connecting with professionals in the field can provide insider knowledge and opportunities that you won’t find on typical job boards.
✨Utilise Your University’s Resources
If you’re freshly graduated or still studying, make the most of your university's careers service. They often have exclusive partnerships with companies like Murray McIntosh Associates and can help you get your foot in the door for these full-time public sector roles.
✨Stay Updated with Government Initiatives
Keep your finger on the pulse regarding new government projects and policies. Understanding current initiatives can give you a leg up in interviews, showing that you are informed and genuinely interested in making a difference in the public sector.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of External Affairs
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Relevant Experience:In the public sector, having experience in community engagement, policy analysis, or project management stands out. Make sure to showcase any previous roles or volunteer work that reflects your understanding of public service values and how they've shaped your career path.
Showcase Your Knowledge of the Sector:When you’re applying for a government role, it’s crucial to demonstrate your understanding of the current political landscape and public policies. Consider including articles you've written or relevant projects that underline your capability to engage with these concepts effectively.
Tailor Your CV to Reflect Core Competencies:Government positions often require a clear demonstration of competencies such as communication, teamwork, and problem-solving. Try to structure your CV to highlight these skills, using specific examples of how you’ve applied them in past experiences, ideally with quantifiable outcomes where possible.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to tell your story and convey your passion for public service. Discuss why you want to work for Murray McIntosh Associates and how your values align with their mission. Be genuine and let your enthusiasm shine through—this can really set you apart from other candidates.
How to prepare for a job interview at Murray McIntosh Associates
✨Get to Know Public Sector Values
Before your interview with Murray McIntosh Associates, dig deep into their mission and values, especially how they align with public service and community impact. Understand the key policies or initiatives they are involved in – you’ll want to show that you genuinely care about serving the community.
✨Brush Up on Regulatory Knowledge
Brush up on the regulations, laws, and compliance standards relevant to the role you’re applying for. Since this is the government and public sector, they might throw technical questions related to policy frameworks or project management best practices that you'll need to navigate day-to-day.
✨Highlight Teamwork and Collaboration
The government sector thrives on collaboration. Be ready to discuss how you've successfully worked in diverse teams or involved stakeholders in your projects. Show us how you bring people together to get a common goal achieved – that's what public service is all about!
✨Prepare Real-Life Examples
Craft a few STAR (Situation, Task, Action, Result) stories that demonstrate your experience in similar roles. Whether it’s a project that made a difference in the community or a challenging situation you managed, be ready to express how your skills and experiences make you a valuable asset for Murray McIntosh Associates.
