At a Glance
- Tasks: Support client accounts and implement impactful public affairs strategies.
- Company: Join Open Strategic Communications, a leading agency in Northern Ireland.
- Benefits: Generous salary, 24 days holiday, birthday off, and career development.
- Other info: Friendly environment with a commitment to equal opportunities and flexible working.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in public affairs and engage with influential clients.
- Qualifications: 12 months experience in policy or public affairs and a passion for politics.
The predicted salary is between 28000 - 36000 £ per year.
As one of Northern Ireland’s leading Communications and Public Affairs agencies, Open has had a busy few years of delivering continuous growth, and we want someone like you to join our team and help us all grow further. In recent years we have developed strategies and delivered engagement that has helped with the delivery of a £1 billion investment package for NI, the development of hundreds of social houses being built, and delivering millions in funding for those in need and to help improve the quality of life for many people. We have supported clients from Wall Street to every High Street in Northern Ireland and we are proud of our work, our clients, and our team.
If successful, you’ll be working with a great team of colleagues and a fantastic bunch of clients. Moreover, you’ll be well rewarded with a generous salary and benefits package.
About Us: Open was established in 2020 and had previously been Weber Shandwick in Northern Ireland, one of the world’s largest communications agencies. We remain as their partners but are now independently owned. The business has over 35 years presence in Northern Ireland and Open is the local partner to the global network, retaining our world class links and skillsets. As an agency, we work across a broad range of sectors and clients providing PR, Public Affairs, Digital Communications and Crisis Management support so flexibility is key, alongside a strong teamwork ethos. Our client list includes some of NI’s leading brands, including Belfast International Airport, the International Fund for Ireland, Power NI, Kinecx Energy, firmus energy Supply, Energia, Pinsent Masons, Dairy Council NI, Choice Housing, Action Mental Health, Bio Capital, and many others. We work across sectors from energy to health, aviation to housing, community to finance, education to professional services, tourism, and environment.
About you: We are looking for a public affairs specialist to deliver impactful communications for our clients.
What you’ll be doing:
- Supporting client accounts and taking appropriate and timely action to ensure expected outcomes are met.
- Working alongside the Management Team to implement Public Affairs (political engagement) plans for clients and strategically assist with engaging with elected representatives.
- Monitoring the NI Assembly, Irish and UK parliaments and delivering political reports.
- Building a strong understanding of the NI, UK & Irish Governments and political sector.
What experience you’ll need to apply:
- Minimum 12 months experience working in a Policy or Public Affairs environment supporting and implementing campaigns and engaging with elected representatives.
- An interest in news, current affairs and NI, Irish and UK wide politics and Government.
- Self-motivation and commitment to deliver results-focused communications for clients.
What you’ll get in return:
- Above market average salary – dependent on experience.
- Friendly, caring, and supportive working environment.
- Career development and training.
- Holiday Entitlement – 24 days per year, increasing by one day per year after two years of service (up to a maximum of 30 days per holiday year).
- Birthday off.
- Volunteering support.
- Work mobile phone to keep your personal and professional life separate.
- Enhanced Maternity/Paternity/Adoption benefits.
- Pension Contributions.
- Cycle to Work Scheme.
How to apply? Please submit your CV to Open’s Managing Director, Ross Williamson via ross@oscni.com with Public Affairs Advisor Application in the subject line. The deadline for applications is 5pm, Monday 9th February 2026.
We are an Equal Opportunities employer and welcome applications from all sections of the community. We have a commitment to ensuring equal employment opportunity regardless of race, colour, ancestry, religion, socio-economic status, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, age, citizenship, marital status, neuro divergence, disability, gender, gender identity or expression. Whether you’re just getting your foot in the door, or you are an experienced employee whose life circumstances are shifting, we are committed to creating a workplace that reflects the world we want to live in and are therefore flexible to accommodate each individual’s needs as best as we can.
Public Affairs Advisor in Belfast employer: Open Strategic Communications
Open Strategic Communications is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment where your passion for Northern Ireland politics can thrive. With a strong focus on employee development and a commitment to delivering impactful results, you will benefit from competitive salaries, comprehensive benefits, and the opportunity to engage with influential stakeholders in a fast-paced setting. Join us to make a meaningful difference while advancing your career in public affairs.
Contact Details:
Open Strategic Communications Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Public Affairs Advisor in Belfast
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with people in the public affairs scene. Attend events, join relevant groups on social media, and don’t be shy about reaching out to folks for a chat over coffee. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings!
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! When you get the chance to meet potential employers or clients, make sure to highlight your experience in policy and public affairs. Share specific examples of campaigns you've worked on and the impact they had. This will help you stand out from the crowd.
✨Tip Number 3
Stay updated on current affairs! Being knowledgeable about the latest news and political developments in Northern Ireland and beyond is crucial. It shows you're passionate and engaged, which is exactly what agencies like Open are looking for in a Public Affairs Advisor.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We at StudySmarter encourage you to submit your application directly through our platform. It’s a great way to ensure your CV gets seen by the right people and shows that you’re serious about joining the team at Open.
We think you need these skills to ace Public Affairs Advisor in Belfast
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Public Affairs Advisor role. Highlight your relevant experience in policy or public affairs, and don’t forget to showcase any campaigns you've worked on that align with Open's mission.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you’re passionate about public affairs and how your skills can help Open grow. Keep it concise but impactful – we want to see your personality!
Showcase Your Knowledge:Demonstrate your understanding of the NI, UK & Irish political landscape in your application. Mention any specific issues or recent developments that excite you and how they relate to the work Open does.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother process. It helps us keep track of applications and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates from us!
How to prepare for a job interview at Open Strategic Communications
✨Know Your Stuff
Before the interview, dive deep into Open's recent projects and achievements. Familiarise yourself with their work on the £1 billion investment package and social housing developments. This will not only show your interest but also help you discuss how your skills can contribute to their ongoing success.
✨Stay Current
Keep up with the latest news in Northern Ireland, UK, and Irish politics. Being able to discuss current affairs and demonstrate your understanding of the political landscape will impress the interviewers and show that you're passionate about public affairs.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Prepare specific examples from your past roles where you've successfully engaged with elected representatives or implemented campaigns. Highlighting your relevant experience will help the interviewers see how you can hit the ground running in this role.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
At the end of the interview, have a few insightful questions ready about Open's future projects or their approach to client engagement. This shows that you're not just interested in the job, but also in the company's vision and how you can be a part of it.
