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- Tasks: Lead public affairs and communications to drive meaningful change in housing across Scotland.
- Company: Join Cairn Housing Association, a top housing provider creating vibrant communities.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working, health support, tech schemes, and compassionate leave.
- Why this job: Shape the future of housing while influencing public policy and community engagement.
- Qualifications: Experience in public affairs and strategic planning; understanding of social housing.
- Other info: Dynamic role with opportunities for impactful leadership and career growth.
The predicted salary is between 67000 - 71000 £ per year.
Various office locations throughout Scotland
Closing date for applications: Tuesday 12th August 2025, 12:00
Full salary & employment details
Job Details:
- Location: Edinburgh / Bellshill / Inverness / Irvine or Thurso (with Hybrid Working)
- Contract: Permanent
- Hours: 34.5 hours per week (full-time)
- Salary: The salary for this post is £67,252 per annum rising to £70,792 on successful completion of 6-month probationary period
At Cairn Housing Association, we are proud to be one of Scotland's leading housing providers – creating vibrant communities and providing high quality homes that make a real difference. We have almost 5,000 homes in management across Scotland and operate from five regional offices in Edinburgh, Bellshill, Inverness, Thurso and Irvine. As we embark on a period of exciting transformation and innovation, we are seeking a visionary leader to join our team and help shape the future of housing across Scotland.
Responsibilities:
This is not just a job – it’s a unique opportunity to drive meaningful change. As Head of Public Affairs, Strategy & Communications, you will play a pivotal role in steering Cairn's strategic direction, elevating our public profile and connecting our mission to the communities we serve. This newly created role will also work closely with the CEO on the development and delivery of a highly effective public affairs function within Cairn aligned to Strategic Objectives, Risk and customer priorities and will have a key role in scrutinising, articulating and acting as being a lead adviser on local and national policies and strategies relevant to the success of our business.
The post holder will also lead on the development and preparation of the Cairn Business Plan and embed a high-performance culture, including innovative approach to tenant scrutiny and feedback. The role will also lead on the development of a robust inclusive communication strategy for both internal and external stakeholders setting out new and innovative ways to enhance engagement and manage the brand.
Key Responsibilities Include:
- Develop the Cairn business plan in consultation with other key stakeholders to ensure direction of travel is cohesive and fits in with overriding strategic plans and in line with regulatory requirements.
- Provide strategic leadership for the effective development and delivery of an external political engagement program, setting and pursuing clear objectives built on analysis and insight, supporting Cairn to achieve its objectives.
- Work with the CEO and Chair to build, improve and maintain relationships with key stakeholders to successfully influence public policy that impacts on our customers and business objectives.
- Establish and lead the public affairs function including monitoring the activities of Scottish Parliament and Westminster and other relevant bodies and preparing briefings for CEO, Executive Team and Board setting out alignment to Cairn strategy, risks or opportunities.
- Monitor and analyse legislative and policy developments, advising CEO and Executive Team on potential impacts.
Key Requirements:
- Substantial experience in public affairs, communications and strategic planning and / or degree qualified or equivalent experience.
- Demonstrable understanding of local and national government; the political framework and processes and mechanics of creating new or amending legislation.
- Track record of highly effective leadership and influence in complex environments.
- Understanding of the social housing sector and regulatory environment, specifically the Scottish Social Housing Charter.
- Understanding of effective ways to engage with customers in an inclusive and accessible way.
- Experience and knowledge of equalities, diversity and inclusion and understanding of legislative requirements.
- Knowledge and experience in performance management frameworks and experience of delivering a culture of continuous improvement.
- The ability to work under pressure, co-ordinate a varied and complex workload in a busy environment.
- A Full UK Drivers Licence with access to a vehicle and a Basic Disclosure is required for this role.
Employee Benefits: Why Cairn is the Best Place to Work
Join Cairn and enjoy a range of benefits including flexible and hybrid working, health and wellness support, tech and cycle schemes, compassionate leave, and more! Cairn is passionate about creating equal opportunities for everyone and warmly invites applications from all community members.
A registered Scottish Charity SC(NO):016647
Notes
Application Process:
Visit Cairn website to apply - Housing Jobs Scotland | Housing Association Charity Jobs In Scotland
For assistance, call our head office at 0800 990 3405 or email recruitment@cairnha.com.
Please note, we do not accept CVs.
Closing Date: Monday 18th August at 12 noon.
For full details, please download the job description from our website.
Interview Date & Location: 1st September 2025 at our Edinburgh or Bellshill Office
Head of Public Affairs, Strategy & Communications in London employer: Scottish Federation of Housing Associations
Contact Detail:
Scottish Federation of Housing Associations Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Public Affairs, Strategy & Communications in London
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the housing sector or public affairs. Attend events, join online forums, and don’t be shy about asking for informational interviews. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for those interviews! Research Cairn Housing Association thoroughly. Understand their mission, values, and recent projects. This will help you tailor your responses and show that you’re genuinely interested in making a difference.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your leadership skills! Be ready to discuss specific examples of how you've influenced change in previous roles. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your answers and make them impactful.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining Cairn and contributing to their mission of creating vibrant communities.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Public Affairs, Strategy & Communications in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Know Your Audience: Before you start writing, take a moment to understand who you're addressing. Tailor your application to resonate with Cairn's mission and values. Show us that you get what we're all about!
Be Clear and Concise: We love a good story, but keep it relevant! Make sure your application is straightforward and to the point. Highlight your experience in public affairs and strategic planning without waffling on.
Showcase Your Impact: Don’t just list your responsibilities; tell us about your achievements! Use specific examples to demonstrate how you've made a difference in previous roles. We want to see the impact you've had!
Follow Our Application Process: Remember, we only accept applications through our website. So, make sure you follow the instructions carefully and submit your application there. It’s the best way to ensure we see your amazing skills!
How to prepare for a job interview at Scottish Federation of Housing Associations
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you thoroughly understand Cairn Housing Association's mission and values. Familiarise yourself with their current projects and challenges in the housing sector, especially in Scotland. This will help you demonstrate your genuine interest and how your experience aligns with their goals.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a Head of Public Affairs, you'll need to exhibit strong leadership qualities. Prepare examples from your past experiences where you've successfully led teams or initiatives, particularly in complex environments. Highlight how you influenced public policy or engaged stakeholders effectively.
✨Engage with Current Issues
Stay updated on local and national government policies affecting the housing sector. Be ready to discuss recent legislative changes and how they might impact Cairn's operations. This shows that you're proactive and can think critically about the role's responsibilities.
✨Prepare Thoughtful Questions
Interviews are a two-way street! Prepare insightful questions about Cairn's strategic direction, their approach to community engagement, and how they measure success in public affairs. This not only shows your interest but also helps you assess if the role is the right fit for you.