At a Glance
- Tasks: Engage with stakeholders and advocate for policies that shape the future of the Post Office.
- Company: Join a leading organisation committed to diversity and positive change.
- Benefits: Enjoy 27.5 days annual leave, performance incentives, and continuous learning opportunities.
- Other info: Be part of a dynamic team that values diverse perspectives and fosters growth.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in public affairs while driving inclusion and high performance.
- Qualifications: Experience in public affairs and strong communication skills are essential.
The predicted salary is between 50000 - 60000 £ per year.
Reporting Line: Head of Public Affairs & Policies
Contact Type: Fixed Term Contract - 9 Months
Location: London
What to expect
As an External Affairs Specialist you will join us on our journey and undertake a valuable role reporting to Head of Public Affairs & Policies. The External Affairs Specialist is a key member of the Corporate Affairs team, responsible for the delivery of functional strategies, always modelling the Post Office behaviours and demonstrating a Postmaster first mindset. Acting as an expert advisor, the External Affairs Specialist will apply advanced knowledge of the external political and stakeholder environment, to ensure they support the Post Office strategy as well as broad knowledge of Communications. The External Affairs Specialist will lead on stakeholder engagement and policy advocacy across UK parliament, devolved assemblies and local councils across the function’s strategic priorities. They will drive a culture of inclusion, continuous improvement, and high performance across their teams, delivering high-quality engagement and stakeholder management and supporting decision‑making across Corporate Affairs team.
What we can do for you
Now, more than ever, we understand that attracting the right talent is pivotal in driving the positive change needed throughout our organisation. Beyond a competitive salary, we offer a comprehensive benefits package that includes:
- 27.5 days annual leave that increases with tenure
- Up to 18% individual performance based – incentive scheme
- Life assurance
- Full support from our employee assistance programme and access to our employee benefits platform
- Ever‑evolving learning and development opportunities
Our commitment to embracing diversity extends beyond just words. We actively foster an inclusive workplace that values the unique perspectives and contributions from all colleagues. We hold the belief that Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion are not just vital but fundamental to our success and growth. Our priority lies in shaping a business that mirrors the diverse communities we reach, truly making Post Office 'Everybody's Business'. As an equal opportunity employer, we value and celebrate the differences among our people, ensuring that our practices reflect our dedication to inclusivity and equal representation for all.
What you’ll need to succeed
Experience and Qualifications
- Substantial experience in public affairs, policy advocacy or government relations, gained in‑house, consultancy, Parliament, Government or a public policy environment.
- Experience of political lobbying and of engaging at a senior level, with an appreciation of what interests and motivates decision‑makers.
- A strong interest in current affairs, with the ability to rapidly build knowledge across multiple policy domains.
- Experienced People Manager with proven experience collaborating with peers and senior managers, to contribute to the development of, and deliver, a functional strategy to achieve business objectives.
- Substantial experience in establishing successful, cross‑functional, stakeholder relationships.
- Demonstrable experience of delivering projects to achieve key objectives.
- Experience of integrating public affairs within broader communications strategies.
Skills and Capabilities
- Excellent influencing and communication skills with the ability to utilise a range of techniques to deliver messages effectively, make an impact, and drive a successful outcome.
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to speak with knowledge and confidence on nuanced policy topics in Westminster settings.
- Ability to develop and maintain strong relationships with senior stakeholders and leaders to build support for functional plans and activity.
- An enabler who can speak with knowledge and confidence in their subject matter, guiding their team to success.
- Acts as an expert advisor, applying advanced knowledge of their own specialism as well as broad knowledge of related areas.
- Strong commercial business acumen and ability to make data‑driven business decisions.
- Demonstrates a strong commitment to upholding the values and principles of Post Office.
- A track record of actively promoting equality, diversity, and inclusion within all areas of responsibility and in particularly in the Corporate Affairs function.
- Ability to work to tight deadlines and manage competing priorities.
External Affairs Specialist employer: Post Office Ltd
At Post Office, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment in the heart of London where your contributions truly matter. With a strong commitment to diversity and inclusion, we provide extensive learning and development opportunities alongside a competitive benefits package, including generous annual leave and performance-based incentives. Join us to be part of a culture that values collaboration, innovation, and the unique perspectives of every team member, making a meaningful impact in the community.
