At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead community engagement for major infrastructure projects and shape the future of energy.
- Company: Join National Grid, a leader in transforming the UK's energy system.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, performance bonuses, flexible benefits, and a strong pension scheme.
- Other info: Flexible working options and commitment to diversity and inclusion.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on communities while driving vital energy projects forward.
- Qualifications: Strong communication skills and experience in stakeholder engagement or communications.
The predicted salary is between 48000 - 55000 £ per year.
Help deliver The Great Grid Upgrade. Shape the conversation that powers our future.
The UK’s energy system is transforming – and at National Grid, we’re leading one of the largest infrastructure programmes in a generation: The Great Grid Upgrade.
As an
External Affairs Advisor , you’ll play a critical role in how we engage, inform and build trust with the communities at the heart of this transformation.
You’ll help ensure our projects are not only delivered – but understood, supported and shaped by the people they impact.
This is your chance to work on nationally significant infrastructure projects that are vital to delivering a cleaner, more secure energy future.
We offer hybrid working, with flexibility required for weekly travel to offices and sites across the South East and Central England.
Help us power the future – and build stronger connections with the communities we serve. Apply now and be part of something bigger.
- What you\'ll be doing
- Lead stakeholder engagement across a portfolio of major infrastructure projects – from early planning through to construction.
- Build trusted relationships with local communities, MPs, councils and key regional stakeholders.
- Develop and deliver compelling engagement and communications strategies that support project success.
- Manage external affairs and community relations agencies to deliver impactful, high-quality campaigns.
- Represent National Grid at public consultations, community events and stakeholder briefings.
- Ensure communications are clear, consistent and aligned with National Grid’s brand and purpose.
- Collaborate with media, digital and public affairs teams to manage reputational risks and opportunities.
- Manage budgets and resources effectively, ensuring value for money across engagement activities and external support.
- Oversee community feedback and enquiries, ensuring timely and effective responses.
- Help deliver positive social impact through community investment and socio-economic initiatives.
About you
You’re a confident, credible communicator who thrives in complex, stakeholder-rich environments.
- Proven experience delivering stakeholder engagement or communications programmes.
- Experience creating effective multi-channel communications, including print, broadcast, social media and web content.
- Strong relationship-building skills with the ability to influence at all levels.
- Experience managing agencies or partners to deliver results.
- Able to balance community needs with project priorities in a fast-moving environment.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
- Experience in infrastructure, energy, planning or construction is a plus.
- What you\'ll get
A competitive salary between £48,000 - £55,000 – dependent on capability.
As well as your base salary, you will receive a bonus based on personal performance and a competitive contributory pension scheme where we will double match your contribution to a maximum company contribution of 12%.
You will also have access to a number of flexible benefits such as a share incentive plan, salary sacrifice car and technology schemes, support via employee assistance lines and matched charity giving to name a few.
About us
National Grid Strategic Infrastructure is a Business Unit created to propel our grid forward to deliver in 5 years, what has been achieved in the previous 30.
By 2030 we aim to have 17 new major infrastructure projects live across England, Scotland and Wales.
Here at National Grid, we connect homes and businesses to power, making sure supply and demand match each other.
We make sure the lights are on in schools, operating theatres, and sporting arenas; we’re thousands of people working on behalf of millions of people.
Our investment in Strategic Infrastructure via The Great Grid Upgrade will mean more home-grown power, greater energy security and a cleaner future.
Whatever your role, wherever you work with us, you’ll help us hit stretching targets and achieve our far-reaching goal: to secure, clean energy that supports our world far into the future.
Here, you will be at the heart of energy.
More information
This role closes on 7 August 2026 at 23:59 , however we encourage candidates to submit their application as early as possible and not wait until the published closing date as this can vary.
Interviews to be held week commencing 17 August 2026.
We value diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive workplace for all.
We welcome applications from all suitably qualified candidates – we make appointments purely on merit, assessed against objective selection criteria.
We support flexible working and will make reasonable adjustments throughout the recruitment process should you have any physical or mental impairment which may affect your ability to participate in the process.
Please note that in most cases, National Grid is unable to offer sponsorship for employment under the UK points-based immigration system.
As such, applicants must have the legal right to work in the UK without requiring sponsorship now or in the future under the UK points-based immigration system.
However, in exceptional circumstances where there is a clear and demonstrable need for specialist skills that cannot be sourced from the local labour market, National Grid may consider offering sponsorship.
All applications are welcome from candidates who meet these requirements, regardless of race, nationality, or ethnic origin.
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External Affairs Advisor - North employer: National Grid
Join a forward-thinking company that values innovation and collaboration in the telecoms sector. With a strong commitment to employee development, we offer a hybrid working model that promotes work-life balance while providing opportunities for professional growth within the dynamic environment of the South West and South Wales. Our supportive culture encourages teamwork and ensures that you play a vital role in delivering secure and resilient communication solutions for the high-voltage electricity network.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land External Affairs Advisor - North
✨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 National Grid, 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 National Grid 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 External Affairs Advisor - North
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 National Grid 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 National Grid
✨Get to Know Public Sector Values
Before your interview with National Grid, 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 National Grid.
