At a Glance
- Tasks: Engage with governments to amplify groundbreaking technology and support strategic initiatives.
- Company: Join Oxford Nanopore, a leader in innovative molecular analysis technology.
- Benefits: Hybrid work model, competitive salary, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Dynamic role with excellent career development opportunities in a cutting-edge field.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in life sciences and influence government relations globally.
- Qualifications: Experience in government affairs and strong communication skills required.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 50000 £ per year.
Location: Oxford
Work Model: Hybrid (2 days per week on-site)
About Oxford Nanopore Technologies
Oxford Nanopore has developed a new generation of nanopore-based sensing technology for faster, information-rich, accessible and affordable molecular analysis. The technology is used to understand and characterise the biology of humans, animals, plants, bacteria, viruses, and diseases such as cancer. By enabling biological insights, we strive to improve life on Earth and beyond.
About the Role
Oxford Nanopore is seeking a highly motivated Government Affairs Associate to join our Corporate Affairs team. Our team is dedicated to driving global government affairs while also supporting corporate and internal communications—collectively working to inform, unite and protect. This international role is crucial for aligning our work to Oxford Nanopore’s key priorities, resulting in increased awareness of, understanding of, and collaboration with the company. You will play a vital part in amplifying the impact of our groundbreaking technology around the world. The ideal candidate will have an interest in life sciences and a passion for government relationships and influencing, understanding the role of reputation and collaboration in the success of delivering high‑impact scientific technology. You will work closely with commercial leadership and corporate teams to support the wider organization in delivering its strategic priorities.
Key Responsibilities
- Global Government Engagement and Country Priorities: Support the development and delivery of government affairs activity across priority regions, aligned to company strategy and growth plans. Drive the process to design and deliver senior‑level government engagement programmes, including ministerial meetings, official roundtables, and policy dialogues focused on national genomics initiatives. Build and maintain effective relationships with junior/mid‑level government stakeholders, embassies, trade bodies, and external partners in priority markets.
- Deploying UK Government Internationally: Co‑lead initiatives with UK Government partners (including the Office for Life Sciences and Department for Business and Trade) to support overseas ministerial and official engagement. Coordinate Oxford Nanopore's participation in trade missions and delegations, ensuring senior leaders are well briefed and positioned. Act as a key point of contact between Oxford Nanopore and UK Government teams to triage incoming requests that support international growth.
- Policy Monitoring and Upstream Engagement: Monitor parliamentary, regulatory, and policy developments to help identify risks and opportunities for the business at an early stage. Lead the development of briefings and response papers in collaboration with internal experts. Prepare senior leaders for meetings with MPs, ministers, and officials, including clear policy “asks” and strategic objectives. Represent the company in selected political and policy forums, independently where appropriate.
- Narrative, Positioning, and Strategic Alignment: Work closely with Strategic Communications to help shape and deploy Oxford Nanopore’s global narrative with governments. Translate scientific and commercial priorities into clear, credible policy positions that support government engagement worldwide.
- Managing External Partners and Capability Building: Support a network of regional government affairs consultants/agencies with HQ functions. Lead regular consultant/agency meetings and ensure intelligence and insights are shared internally. Contribute to the continuous development and professionalisation of the Government Affairs function.
Skills and Experience
Essential: Demonstrable experience in government affairs, public policy, political engagement, or a closely related field. Strong understanding of UK government, parliamentary processes, and the role of government in life sciences, healthcare, or technology. Experience engaging with senior government stakeholders (ministers, officials, MPs or equivalents). Proven ability to manage complex, multistakeholder projects across geographies. Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to brief senior leaders clearly and concisely.
Desirable: Experience working in or with life sciences, healthcare, biotech, or advanced technology sectors. Familiarity with UK Government international trade, science, or industrial strategy agendas. International government affairs or trade policy experience. Experience managing external consultants or agencies.
Please note that no terminology in this advert is intended to discriminate on the grounds of a person’s gender, marital status, race, religion, colour, age, disability or sexual orientation. Every candidate will be assessed only in accordance with their merits, qualifications and abilities to perform the duties of the job.
Government Affairs Associate in Oxford employer: Oxford Nanopore
Oxford Nanopore Technologies is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work culture that fosters innovation and collaboration in the life sciences sector. With a hybrid work model based in Oxford, employees benefit from flexible working arrangements while contributing to groundbreaking technology that enhances global health. The company prioritises professional growth, providing opportunities for engagement with government stakeholders and involvement in high-impact projects, making it an ideal place for those passionate about making a difference in the world.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Government Affairs Associate in Oxford
✨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 Oxford Nanopore, 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 Oxford Nanopore 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 Associate in Oxford
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 Oxford Nanopore 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 Oxford Nanopore
✨Get to Know Public Sector Values
Before your interview with Oxford Nanopore, 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 Oxford Nanopore.
