At a Glance
- Tasks: Shape and deliver public affairs strategy while engaging key stakeholders and advising leadership.
- Company: Join a vital utility company undergoing major development in the South of England.
- Benefits: Flexible hybrid working, competitive salary, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Immediate start with a tight application deadline; equal opportunity employer.
- Why this job: Play a central role in influencing policy-makers during a transformative period.
- Qualifications: Expertise in public affairs with strong government networks and crisis management experience.
The predicted salary is between 55000 - 65000 £ per year.
Murray McIntosh is delighted to partner with a vital utility company serving the South of England, for the appointment of an immediate Public Affairs requirement. We are supporting their search for a Senior Public Affairs Manager on a fixed‑term contract until March 2027, joining at a pivotal point for the organisation and providing senior‑level support to the public affairs function and executive team.
Under new leadership since 2022, the company is undergoing major development, with significant investment in infrastructure and services. Plans are in place to double investment to £7.8 bn over the 2025‑30 regulatory period, placing public affairs and political engagement firmly at the heart of the organisation's strategy. As Senior Public Affairs Manager you will play a central role in shaping and delivering public affairs strategy during this dynamic period. You'll influence policy‑makers, help navigate a complex political and regulatory environment, and support the senior team – with regular interaction with the CEO and Executive Committee – as the business operates under intense public and political scrutiny.
Responsibilities
- Develop and deliver public affairs strategy, engage key stakeholders, and deputise for the Head of Public Affairs.
- Advise the leadership team on external political, regulatory and legislative matters, supporting risk mitigation during a high‑profile transformation period.
- Oversee internal forums and foster collaborative working practices to ensure a coordinated approach across government, regulators and Water UK.
- Lead engagement with Westminster and Whitehall to land consistent messaging and strengthen the company's reputation.
- Develop political briefings, letters, speeches and presentations; maintain strong relationships with officials, politicians, regulators and industry bodies.
- Manage a Public Affairs Manager and a graduate trainee, ensuring strong inter‑team collaboration and information flow.
- Support the organisation's response to issues, incidents or periods of heightened scrutiny as required.
Requirements
- Demonstrable expertise in managing public affairs at national and regional level, with strong government and stakeholder networks.
- Experience delivering integrated communications and public affairs activity within complex or regulated environments.
- Background in water, energy or other regulated sectors such as infrastructure or transport.
- Strong leadership and management skills, including experience of issues and crisis management.
- Highly organised, resilient and able to operate at pace in a dynamic, high‑profile environment.
- Understanding of current policy priorities and political parties' positions on the water sector is desirable.
The company offers a flexible, hybrid working environment, based from its office in Worthing, West Sussex, with office attendance required once per week and occasional travel to Westminster and across the region. Unfortunately, sponsorship for work visas is not available. As this is an immediate requirement we are working to a tight time‑frame – application deadline is 12:00 Thursday 23rd April.
Murray McIntosh is proud to be an equal‑opportunity agency on behalf of its clients. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, colour, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability or age.
Senior Public Affairs Manager (FTC) employer: Murray McIntosh
Murray McIntosh is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic and supportive work environment for the Senior Public Affairs Manager role in Worthing, West Sussex. With significant investment in infrastructure and services, employees are at the forefront of shaping public affairs strategy during a transformative period, while enjoying flexible hybrid working arrangements and opportunities for professional growth within a collaborative culture that values diversity and inclusion.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Public Affairs Manager (FTC)
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the public affairs sector and let them know you're on the lookout for opportunities. A friendly chat can lead to insider info or even a referral that could land you an interview.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for those interviews by researching the company and its recent developments. Knowing their current projects and challenges will help you tailor your responses and show that you're genuinely interested in being part of their journey.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice makes perfect! Get a friend or mentor to do mock interviews with you. This will help you refine your answers and boost your confidence, especially when discussing your experience in managing public affairs and navigating complex environments.
✨Tip Number 4
Don't forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive and engaged in their job search.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Public Affairs Manager (FTC)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight your experience in public affairs, especially in regulated sectors like water or energy. We want to see how your skills align with the role, so don’t hold back on showcasing relevant achievements!
Showcase Your Leadership Skills:As a Senior Public Affairs Manager, you'll be leading teams and engaging with high-level stakeholders. We recommend you emphasise your leadership experience and any successful projects you've managed that demonstrate your ability to navigate complex environments.
Be Clear and Concise:When writing your application, clarity is key! We appreciate straightforward language that gets to the point. Avoid jargon unless it’s necessary, and make sure your passion for public affairs shines through without fluff.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to submit your application directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity. Don’t miss out – get your application in before the deadline!
How to prepare for a job interview at Murray McIntosh
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you’re well-versed in the current political landscape, especially regarding water and energy sectors. Brush up on recent legislation and how it impacts public affairs. This will show that you’re not just interested in the role but also genuinely engaged with the industry.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a Senior Public Affairs Manager, you’ll need to demonstrate strong leadership abilities. Prepare examples of how you've successfully managed teams or projects in the past, particularly in high-pressure situations. This will help convey your capability to lead during the company's transformation period.
✨Engage with Stakeholders
Think about how you would approach key stakeholders and build relationships. Be ready to discuss your strategies for engaging with politicians, regulators, and industry bodies. This will highlight your understanding of the role and your proactive approach to public affairs.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect questions about crisis management and how you would handle specific issues. Think through potential scenarios related to public scrutiny or regulatory challenges and prepare your responses. This will demonstrate your ability to think on your feet and manage complex situations effectively.
