At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead Nest's relationship with government and shape strategic partnerships.
- Company: Join Nest, a leading UK pension scheme committed to responsible investment.
- Benefits: Flexible working hours, hybrid model, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Dynamic role with the chance to influence key stakeholders and policies.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on public policy while supporting financial outcomes for members.
- Qualifications: Experience with government departments and strong communication skills required.
The predicted salary is between 55000 - 65000 £ per year.
In this role, you will sit at the heart of Nest’s relationship with government, shaping how we engage with our sponsor department and supporting delivery of our long‑term strategy. Day‑to‑day you will lead key interactions with the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP), acting as a trusted focal point for both internal teams and government counterparts. You will build effective, influential relationships with strategic stakeholders, connect policy, strategy and operations, and help colleagues navigate government frameworks and respond to emerging policy or regulatory developments.
Role Highlights & Responsibilities
- Manage Nest’s day‑to‑day relationship with the DWP and shape the partnership’s development.
- Own major set‑piece engagements with senior officials and ministers.
- Act as a strategic bridge between government policy and Nest’s corporate priorities.
- Work across strategy, policy and public affairs, contributing beyond core government relations.
- Assist with additional policy and public‑affairs work relevant to the role.
Qualifications & Experience
- Strong experience working with Central Government departments from an external or internal perspective.
- Excellent organisational and project‑management skills; ability to anticipate needs and mitigate risks.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
- Ability to understand technical and complex issues and translate them to non‑technical audiences.
- Ability to work autonomously with limited input from line manager.
- Ability to work flexibly and at pace to accommodate changing priorities and the external environment.
- Genuine enthusiasm for the subject matter and for helping Nest deliver effectively for its members.
- Strong, impactful relationship‑building skills with a wide range of stakeholders.
Working Hours & Flexible Working
Hybrid of office (Canary Wharf, London) and home working with an expectation to attend the office once or twice a week, or more as required. Options include reducing or varying working hours, reducing or varying days worked, working compressed hours or job sharing.
About Nest
With over £40 billion invested on behalf of the UK workforce and a commitment to invest responsibly for the low‑to‑median earning population, Nest is one of the largest pension schemes in the UK. Established in 2010, Nest operates under a public‑service obligation to accept any employer wishing to use the scheme and delivers better financial outcomes for its members.
Government Affairs Manager employer: Nest
Nest is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment at its Canary Wharf location, where you can engage directly with government stakeholders and influence policy that impacts the UK workforce. With a strong commitment to employee growth, flexible working arrangements, and a culture that values collaboration and innovation, Nest empowers its team members to thrive while making a meaningful difference in the lives of its members. Join us to be part of a forward-thinking organisation dedicated to responsible investment and public service.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Government Affairs Manager
✨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 Nest, 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 Nest 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 Government Affairs Manager
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 Nest 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 Nest
✨Get to Know Public Sector Values
Before your interview with Nest, 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 Nest.
