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- Tasks: Lead stakeholder relationships and influence policy for a leading education college.
- Company: Join New City College, an Ofsted Outstanding institution and a major player in further education.
- Benefits: Enjoy perks like a pension scheme, gym access, CPD days, and discounts on daily expenses.
- Why this job: Be part of a collaborative team making a real impact on students' futures in a vibrant environment.
- Qualifications: Proven experience in managing strategic stakeholder relationships and exceptional communication skills required.
- Other info: This is a full-time, on-campus role with opportunities for career advancement.
The predicted salary is between 49400 - 58500 £ per year.
Job Description
Role Name: Public Affairs Manager
Location: Hackney Campus. Required to work across the whole college
Pay Range: £57,428 – £66,174 per annum
Hours and weeks: 35 hours per week, 52 weeks
Contract Type: Full time
Contract Term: Permanent
Application Close: Midnight on 5 October 2025
Interview Date: 23 October (To be confirmed)
New City College is an outstanding, sector-leading further education college. One of the largest colleges in the country, with proven expertise across curriculum areas as well as initiatives including sustainability and practitioner-led research.
We need an experienced, proactive and very organised public affairs manager to manage effective stakeholder relationships, facilitating our expert staff to make the right contact with the right people at the right time.
Needless to say, you will have proven experience in managing high profile strategic stakeholder relationships. You will have the skills and confidence to help us to influence policy and further develop our position in the sector, and to make sure our work is aligned to external drivers, giving our students the very best opportunities for their future.
You will have your finger on the pulse of FE and skills, so you can keep abreast of emerging and developing policy and advise the NCC team of engagement opportunities. You will maintain a detailed stakeholder map and support our management team to connect with elected officials and other influencers.
With a talent for translating policy into opportunity, you will read and summarise policy papers, lead on consultations, co-ordinate and support bids. You will also manage stakeholder events focused on policy and influence. You will also take the lead on strategic initiatives as required. Exceptional written and verbal communication and attention to detail are a must.
At New City College we work hard, with focus and accountability. You will be a team player and a natural leader/influencer. We work on campus as one team which places students first; this is not a wfh role. Your achievements and contribution to the college team will be recognised and appreciated.
What We Offer:
- Pension: New City College provides a career average pension scheme for all staff (TPS or LGPS)
- Accessibility: All college sites are easily accessible for wheelchair users and via public transport (bus, DLR, or tube).
- On-Site Facilities: Free access to on-site gym facilities at some campuses and on-site cafes serving subsidised food and drinks.
- Staff Development: Five CPD (Continuing Professional Development) days per year, with access to industry-standard facilities and a collaborative working environment. Leading to opportunities for career advancement and professional development in a supportive setting.
- Financial Perks: Interest-free loans for annual travel season tickets. Health cash plan (reimbursement for dental, optical, and therapy treatments) and a completely confidential Employee assistance program.
- Discounts: Save money on day-to-day expenses, shopping, dining out, DIY, and travel.
Find out more:
See the job description for an outline of the role, which will evolve and develop in line with organisational and external drivers and priorities.
For an informal discussion about the role please do contact Executive Director: Communications & Student Support ruth.lomax@ncclondon.ac.uk or for further information about the application and section process, contact Human Resources on 020 7510 7712 or recruitment@ncclondon.ac.uk.
About New City College:
New City College is proud to be an Ofsted Outstanding college, the largest in England to receive this top rating. With campuses across east London, south-west Essex, and two language schools, we are a sector leader in further education.
Joining NCC means becoming part of a forward-thinking, collaborative team committed to delivering high-quality education and skills that benefit our students and communities. We offer industry-standard facilities, expert staff, and strong partnerships with leading organisations. Our focus on future-ready skills and technology ensures students are well-prepared for higher education or employment, and employers trust us for staff training and development.
Following the merger of seven colleges, NCC has become one of the UK’s most influential FE providers, offering sixth form education, adult learning, apprenticeships, ESOL, EFL and SEND. With a turnover of £130 million, 20,000 students and 1,800 staff, we are a major force in the sector.
We are proud of our inclusive, diverse community and have a zero-tolerance approach to racism and discrimination. As we look ahead, we remain committed to investing in our people and resources to provide an excellent, supportive learning environment that meets the needs of both students and employers.
We are committed to building a workforce that reflects the diversity of the communities we serve and actively welcome applications from candidates from Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic backgrounds. This does not prevent any other candidate with or without a protective characteristic from applying for our jobs.
As the College supports a number of children and vulnerable adults, all staff are exempt from Section 4(2) of the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974. Accordingly, all staff will be subject to an Enhanced DBS check, along with a check of the Children’s Barred List if engaged in regulated activity. Any offers of appointment may be withdrawn if these checks prove unsatisfactory. Self-disclosure will be required as part of the recruitment process. Failure to make a full disclosure or to provide sight of your DBS certificate may result in the withdrawal of your offer of employment. The College's DBS policy on the recruitment of ex-offenders is available upon request.
Public Affairs Manager employer: New City College
Contact Detail:
New City College Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Public Affairs Manager
✨Tip Number 1
Network with professionals in the further education sector. Attend relevant events or webinars where you can meet stakeholders and influencers. Building these connections can give you insights into the role and help you stand out.
✨Tip Number 2
Stay updated on current policies affecting further education. Subscribe to newsletters or follow key organisations on social media to ensure you're well-informed about emerging trends and issues that may impact your work as a Public Affairs Manager.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for the interview by practising how to articulate your experience in managing stakeholder relationships. Think of specific examples where you've successfully influenced policy or engaged with high-profile stakeholders.
✨Tip Number 4
Familiarise yourself with New City College's mission and values. Understanding their focus on student success and community engagement will help you align your responses during the interview, demonstrating that you're a great fit for their team.
We think you need these skills to ace Public Affairs Manager
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Thoroughly read the job description for the Public Affairs Manager position. Make sure you understand the key responsibilities, required skills, and the college's mission to tailor your application accordingly.
Highlight Relevant Experience: In your CV and cover letter, emphasise your experience in managing stakeholder relationships and influencing policy. Use specific examples that demonstrate your ability to translate policy into opportunities.
Showcase Communication Skills: Given the importance of written and verbal communication in this role, ensure your application is well-written and free of errors. Consider including a brief writing sample or summarising a relevant policy paper to showcase your skills.
Tailor Your Application: Customise your CV and cover letter to reflect the values and goals of New City College. Mention how your background aligns with their commitment to diversity and inclusion, as well as your understanding of the further education sector.
How to prepare for a job interview at New City College
✨Know Your Stakeholders
Familiarise yourself with the key stakeholders relevant to the role. Understand their interests, concerns, and how they align with the college's objectives. This will help you demonstrate your ability to manage relationships effectively during the interview.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
As a Public Affairs Manager, exceptional written and verbal communication is crucial. Prepare to discuss examples of how you've successfully communicated complex policies or initiatives in the past, and be ready to articulate your thoughts clearly during the interview.
✨Demonstrate Policy Knowledge
Stay updated on current trends and policies in further education and skills. Be prepared to discuss recent developments and how they might impact the college. This shows your proactive approach and ability to translate policy into opportunities.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect scenario-based questions that assess your problem-solving and strategic thinking abilities. Think about past experiences where you've had to influence policy or manage stakeholder events, and be ready to share these examples in detail.
