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- Tasks: Support Kew's external affairs and engage with diverse stakeholders through events and communications.
- Company: Join the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and leading plant science institute.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working, generous leave, wellness support, and free access to beautiful gardens.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in protecting plants and fungi while developing your professional skills.
- Qualifications: Experience in project support, strong organisational skills, and confidence in stakeholder communication.
- Other info: Dynamic role with opportunities for continuous learning and career growth.
The predicted salary is between 28800 - 43200 £ per year.
An exciting opportunity for a highly organised and proactive communications and engagement professional to support Kew’s external affairs and stakeholder engagement activity at a time of growing ambition and profile. As part of the External Affairs & Engagement team within Communications, this role supports the coordination and delivery of high-quality engagement with a wide range of external stakeholders, including ambassadors, partners, cultural organisations, embassies and sector leaders.
The post holder plays a key role in preparing briefings, coordinating visits and events, supporting Kew’s Ambassador Programme and ensuring that stakeholder engagement is underpinned by accurate data, strong processes and effective use of CRM systems. Reporting to the External Affairs & Engagement Manager, the role works closely with colleagues across Communications, Development, Science, Horticulture, Government Affairs and Learning & Participation to support both planned and reactive engagement activity.
This is a varied, people-facing role that requires excellent organisational skills, sound judgement and the ability to manage multiple priorities while maintaining attention to detail and professionalism. The successful candidate will bring curiosity and enthusiasm for Kew’s work across science, horticulture, culture and public engagement, along with a proactive, can-do approach and a genuine interest in supporting meaningful external relationships.
To succeed in this role, the candidate will have experience supporting projects, events or engagement activity within a busy team environment, along with strong administrative, coordination and organisational skills. They will be confident communicating with a wide range of stakeholders, including senior and high-profile individuals, and comfortable working with sensitivity and appropriate protocols.
The ideal candidate will have experience working with databases or CRM systems, including researching, maintaining and updating contact records, and handling personal and professional data in line with GDPR and data protection requirements. They will be detail-oriented, adaptable and able to prioritise effectively under pressure, while working collaboratively across teams and disciplines.
This role is based at Kew with the option of regular home working, subject to operational requirements. Our fantastic benefits package includes opportunities for continuous learning, a generous annual leave entitlement, flexible working to help you maintain a healthy work-life balance, an Employee Assistance Programme and other wellbeing support such as cycle to work scheme and discounted gym membership. We also offer a competitive pension, an employee discount scheme and free entry into a wide range of national museums and galleries, as well as access to our own beautiful gardens at Kew and Wakehurst.
We are dedicated to equality of opportunity and welcome applications from all sections of the community. We are committed to interview disabled applicants who meet the essential criteria for the post.
External Affairs & Engagement Officer employer: ROYAL BOTANIC GARDENS/KEW GARDENS
Contact Detail:
ROYAL BOTANIC GARDENS/KEW GARDENS Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land External Affairs & Engagement Officer
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in your field, especially those connected to Kew. Attend events, join relevant groups, and don’t be shy about introducing yourself. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching Kew’s mission and recent projects. Show genuine enthusiasm for their work in plant science and public engagement. Tailor your responses to highlight how your skills align with their goals – it’ll make you stand out!
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your communication skills! Since this role involves engaging with high-profile stakeholders, being articulate and confident is key. Consider mock interviews or practice sessions with friends to refine your delivery.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, keep an eye on our updates for any new opportunities that might pop up – we’re always looking for passionate individuals to join our team!
We think you need these skills to ace External Affairs & Engagement Officer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight your experience in communications and stakeholder engagement. We want to see how your skills align with the role, so don’t hold back on showcasing your relevant achievements!
Show Your Enthusiasm: Let your passion for Kew’s mission shine through in your application. We love candidates who are genuinely excited about protecting plants and fungi, so share why you’re interested in this role and how you can contribute to our goals.
Be Detail-Oriented: Since this role requires strong organisational skills, make sure your application is free from typos and errors. We appreciate attention to detail, so double-check everything before hitting send!
Apply Through Our Website: For the best chance of success, apply directly through our website. It’s the easiest way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity!
How to prepare for a job interview at ROYAL BOTANIC GARDENS/KEW GARDENS
✨Know Your Stakeholders
Before the interview, research Kew's key stakeholders and their roles. Understanding who they are and how they interact with Kew will help you demonstrate your knowledge and enthusiasm for the position.
✨Showcase Your Organisational Skills
Prepare examples of how you've successfully managed multiple priorities in previous roles. Highlight specific projects or events where your organisational skills made a difference, as this role requires excellent coordination abilities.
✨Familiarise Yourself with CRM Systems
Brush up on your experience with databases and CRM systems. Be ready to discuss how you've used these tools to manage stakeholder information and ensure data accuracy, as this is crucial for the role.
✨Demonstrate Your Communication Skills
Practice articulating your thoughts clearly and confidently. Prepare to discuss how you've effectively communicated with diverse stakeholders, especially high-profile individuals, and how you handle sensitive information professionally.
