At a Glance
- 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 focused on delivering high-quality education and making a real impact.
- 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 - 59000 £ per year.
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.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for the interview by practising how to articulate your experience in managing stakeholder relationships. Use specific examples that demonstrate your ability to influence policy and engage effectively with various audiences.
✨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, showcasing your fit for the role.
We think you need these skills to ace Public Affairs Manager
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Read the job description thoroughly to grasp the key responsibilities and required skills for the Public Affairs Manager position. Tailor your application to highlight how your experience aligns with these requirements.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your passion for public affairs and your understanding of the further education sector. Use specific examples from your past experiences to demonstrate your ability to manage stakeholder relationships and influence policy.
Highlight Relevant Experience: In your CV, emphasise your previous roles that involved managing strategic stakeholder relationships and any relevant achievements. Be sure to include metrics or outcomes that illustrate your impact in those positions.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your application materials for spelling and grammatical errors. Attention to detail is crucial for this role, so ensure your application reflects that quality.
How to prepare for a job interview at New City College
✨Research the College and Its Values
Before your interview, take some time to understand New City College's mission, values, and recent initiatives. This will help you align your answers with their goals and demonstrate your genuine interest in the role.
✨Prepare for Stakeholder Scenarios
Given the importance of managing stakeholder relationships in this role, think of specific examples from your past experience where you've successfully engaged with stakeholders. Be ready to discuss how you navigated challenges and built strong connections.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
As a Public Affairs Manager, exceptional written and verbal communication is crucial. Prepare to articulate your thoughts clearly and concisely during the interview. You might even want to practice summarising complex policy papers to show your ability to translate information effectively.
✨Demonstrate Your Leadership Qualities
This role requires a natural leader who can influence and inspire others. Be prepared to share examples of how you've led teams or initiatives in the past, highlighting your ability to motivate others and drive results.