At a Glance
- Tasks: Shape public policy in Wales and advocate for those affected by problem debt.
- Company: Join a mission-driven charity focused on social justice and equality.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible working, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on lives across Wales and influence key decision-makers.
- Qualifications: Experience in public affairs and strong communication skills required.
- Other info: Dynamic role with a focus on equality, diversity, and inclusion.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Are you ready to shape public policy for lasting social change?
Do you want to influence decision-makers and champion the voice of those affected by problem debt?
Are you driven to turn insight into action that improves lives across Wales?
We\’re looking for a Senior Policy and Public Affairs Advocate to join our External Affairs team. You\’ll be at the forefront of our work in Wales—connecting StepChange with key stakeholders, driving policy change, and amplifying our mission to create a society free from problem debt. This is a high-impact role where your insight and influence will help shape the future of debt policy and support vulnerable communities.
Location: This is a remote role, with regular travel required to Cardiff and travel to London once a month for meetings/events.
What you\’ll be doing
You\’ll lead targeted lobbying campaigns and produce compelling evidence-based reports, briefings, and articles to influence public policy and regulatory practices.
You\’ll build and manage relationships with the Welsh Government and Parliament, and other influential figures and organisations across Wales.
You\’ll monitor developments in legislation, policy, and research—providing strategic advice on emerging threats and opportunities.
You\’ll represent StepChange at high-profile meetings, conferences, and media engagements, acting as a trusted voice for the charity.
You\’ll organise thought leadership events and roundtables and support senior leaders with speeches and briefings that drive our advocacy forward.
You\’ll ensure our work remains politically impartial and compliant with all relevant regulations, including Charity Commission rules and the Lobbying Act.
About you
Significant experience in public affairs or public policy within Wales.
Deep understanding of the Welsh Senedd, Welsh Government, and the broader policy‐making landscape.
Proven ability to influence senior stakeholders and deliver impactful policy change.
Strong written and verbal communication skills, with a flair for strategic thinking and political judgement.
Skilled at building influential networks across government, charities, and civil society.
Organised, proactive, and passionate about social justice and equality.
Comfortable working independently and collaboratively in a fast‐paced, purpose‐driven environment.
Equality, Diversity, and InclusionEquality, diversity, and inclusion are incredibly important to us; we have a culture of belonging. We\’re always looking to increase the diversity of our workforce to ensure we can provide the best service possible for everyone. It\’s not just about the professional experience you bring – we\’re interested in who you are and your potential. If there\’s an adjustment to our recruitment process that would help you to be your best, speak to our team and they\’ll be happy to help.
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Senior Policy and Public Affairs Advocate - Wales employer: StepChange
Contact Detail:
StepChange Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Policy and Public Affairs Advocate - Wales
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with people in the public affairs scene. Attend events, join relevant groups, and don’t be shy about reaching out to folks on LinkedIn. The more connections you make, the better your chances of landing that dream role.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your expertise! Create a portfolio of your work that highlights your experience in public policy and advocacy. Share articles, reports, or even social media posts that demonstrate your insights and influence. This will help you stand out when you’re chatting with potential employers.
✨Tip Number 3
Be proactive in your job search! Don’t just wait for roles to pop up on job boards. Reach out directly to organisations you admire, like StepChange, and express your interest in working with them. You never know when an opportunity might arise!
✨Tip Number 4
Keep your finger on the pulse! Stay updated on the latest developments in Welsh policy and public affairs. Follow relevant news sources and engage in discussions online. This knowledge will not only prepare you for interviews but also show potential employers that you’re genuinely passionate about the field.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Policy and Public Affairs Advocate - Wales
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the Senior Policy and Public Affairs Advocate role. Highlight your experience in public affairs within Wales and how it aligns with our mission at StepChange. We want to see how you can make a difference!
Showcase Your Skills: Don’t hold back on showcasing your strong written and verbal communication skills. Use examples from your past experiences where you've influenced stakeholders or driven policy change. This is your chance to shine, so let us know what you’re capable of!
Be Authentic: We’re interested in who you are as much as your professional experience. Share your passion for social justice and equality in your application. Let us see your personality and what drives you to make a difference in the lives of those affected by problem debt.
Apply Through Our Website: To ensure your application gets the attention it deserves, please apply through our website. It’s the best way for us to keep track of your application and connect with you directly. We can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at StepChange
✨Know Your Policy Landscape
Before the interview, dive deep into the current public policy issues in Wales, especially those related to problem debt. Familiarise yourself with recent legislation and how it impacts vulnerable communities. This will not only show your passion but also your readiness to engage with key stakeholders.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
Prepare to demonstrate your strong written and verbal communication skills. Bring examples of reports or briefings you've created that influenced policy change. Practising how you articulate complex ideas clearly will help you stand out as a candidate who can effectively represent StepChange.
✨Build Your Network Knowledge
Research influential figures and organisations within the Welsh Government and civil society. Be ready to discuss how you’ve built relationships in the past and how you plan to leverage these connections for advocacy. This shows you understand the importance of networking in public affairs.
✨Emphasise Your Passion for Social Justice
Make sure to convey your commitment to social justice and equality during the interview. Share personal stories or experiences that highlight your dedication to these values. This will resonate with the organisation's mission and demonstrate that you're not just looking for a job, but a purpose-driven role.