At a Glance
- Tasks: Develop strategies to build relationships with stakeholders and influence ocean policy.
- Company: Join the National Oceanography Centre, a leader in ocean research and innovation.
- Benefits: Enjoy 30 days leave, generous pension contributions, and flexible working options.
- Other info: Dynamic work environment with a focus on diversity and inclusion.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on ocean policy and contribute to vital marine research.
- Qualifications: Exceptional communication skills and experience in public relations or lobbying required.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 50000 £ per year.
The National Oceanography Centre (NOC) is the UK’s leading institution for integrated coastal and deep ocean research. Through our ground-breaking research, collaboration, and innovation, we work to gain a deeper understanding of our ocean, helping every living thing on our planet flourish. We are made up of a dynamic and vibrant community focused on solving challenging long-term marine science problems, underpinning international and UK public policy, business and societal outcomes.
The ocean has the potential to provide solutions to many social, economic, and environmental challenges we face worldwide. To truly harness the value of the ocean, we put ocean research, science, and discovery at the heart of our culture. Join us in shaping the future of oceanographic research and contribute your unique perspective to our organisation.
The Public Affairs Manager will be responsible for developing and implementing strategies to map, build, and maintain the NOC’s relationship with stakeholders, regionally and nationally. The main focus of the role is growing UK Government partnerships, influencing ocean policy, and ensuring NOC retains its position as the key expert in ocean issues, specifically in the marine autonomy and defence space. This role will seek to inform UK government policy decisions while developing new and purposeful relationships.
We are looking for an exceptional communicator who can translate complex science into accessible calls to action. You will have experience building relationships with diverse teams internally and externally and be able to influence and engage stakeholders at all levels. Experience working with media, public relations, and lobbying is essential, along with evidence of working with government bodies, regulators, and/or NGOs. For this role, you should have experience in the marine autonomy or defence policy space or with key stakeholders in those areas.
We offer a generous set of benefits, including:
- 30 days contractual annual leave, plus 3.5 extra closure days and bank holidays
- a 10% employer contribution pension scheme
- Death in Service (3 times annual salary) provided by Aviva from day one of employment
- financial support for relocation
- a salary sacrifice scheme for electric/hybrid vehicles
- access to our Employee Assistance Programme
- a Cycle2Work scheme
- a great working environment with social events
- we are proud to be a Living Wage Employer
This position will be based in Southampton. The centre is well connected by public transport and has ample cycle parking in addition to free onsite car-parking with over 40 EV charging points. We have a hybrid working approach where staff can work from home up to 2 days per week.
We are committed to fostering diversity and inclusion in our workplace. We actively encourage qualified candidates from all backgrounds to apply for this position, as we strive to create a supportive and equitable environment where all voices are valued and heard.
Date advert posted: 1 April 2026. Closing date: 29 April 2026. This vacancy may close earlier depending on the number of applicants.
Public Affairs Manager in Southampton employer: National Oceanography Centre
The National Oceanography Centre (NOC) is an exceptional employer, offering a unique opportunity to work on cutting-edge scientific research vessels while contributing to vital oceanographic studies. With a strong commitment to employee wellbeing, NOC provides generous benefits including a robust pension scheme, death in service cover, and access to mental health support, all within a collaborative and inclusive work culture that values diversity. Based in Southampton, employees enjoy the chance to engage in meaningful work that has a global impact, alongside opportunities for professional growth and development in the marine science sector.
Contact Details:
National Oceanography Centre Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Public Affairs Manager in Southampton
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