At a Glance
- Tasks: Support stakeholder engagement and monitor political developments for the PLA.
- Company: Join the UK's biggest port, vital for the economy and environmental protection.
- Benefits: 28 days annual leave, medical cash plan, generous pension, and gym discounts.
- Other info: Dynamic role with opportunities for professional growth and development.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on stakeholder relationships and contribute to the Thames Vision 2050.
- Qualifications: Degree in politics or communications; experience in stakeholder engagement preferred.
The predicted salary is between 28350 - 34650 £ per year.
Working pattern: Monday to Friday, 35 hours per week.
- Occasional evening work required (approximately four evenings per year)
- Base: Walsingham House, London
Closing date: 19th August 2026 (We may close this vacancy early if sufficient applications are received ahead of the closing date)
Interview date: 1st September 2026
Who we are
We are the UK’s biggest port, central to the country’s economy and ambitions for growth. We connect the UK to the world, but we are much more than a conventional port.
We are driven by our purpose to protect and improve the 95 mile stretch of the River Thames which is tidal – from Teddington Lock on the border of Surrey, through the heart of London, Kent, Essex and out to the North Sea.
The role
This role forms an important part of the PLA’s External Affairs team, which leads the organisation’s engagement with stakeholders across politics, policy, industry and local government.
You will help monitor political and stakeholder developments, support engagement activity, and contribute to building the PLA’s reputation as a trusted and influential organisation.
Working closely with colleagues, you will support stakeholder intelligence, relationship management and engagement activity that underpins the PLA’s strategic objectives and the Thames Vision 2050.
The role provides the opportunity to work directly with stakeholders, support high‑profile engagement, and contribute to the PLA’s wider external affairs work.
Key responsibilities
- Supporting external engagement including stakeholder meetings, visits and events.
- Responding to external stakeholder enquiries and helping coordinate timely and professional communication.
- Monitoring stakeholder and political developments using a variety of platforms and tools to identify policy, political and stakeholder issues relevant to the PLA.
- Drafting stakeholder‑focused materials including first drafts of correspondence, casework responses, briefing materials, speeches, presentations and other content for internal and external audiences.
- Building and maintaining stakeholder records and acting as a CRM super user.
- Contributing to stakeholder mapping and intelligence, supporting reporting on engagement activity and progress against the Thames Vision 2050.
- Supporting positive stakeholder relationships across key audiences.
- Assisting with sensitive stakeholder issues, escalating risks appropriately and supporting responses and briefing materials.
- Undertaking any other duties as required commensurate with the role and responsibilities of the post.
What we are looking for
- Relevant degree or equivalent experience, in politics, public affairs, communications or public policy.
- Previous experience in stakeholder engagement, public affairs, external affairs, communications or a related environment.
- Experience working with or supporting engagement with politicians is desirable.
- Excellent written communication skills, with the ability to prepare clear and accurate briefing materials, correspondence and stakeholder communications.
- Confident verbal communicator, comfortable engaging with a range of audiences.
- Strong organisational skills with the ability to manage competing priorities and deadlines.
- Ability to translate complex issues into clear summaries.
- Confidence and good judgement when handling external enquiries and potentially sensitive stakeholder issues.
- Curious, proactive and willing to learn. Familiarity with Westminster, the GLA and/or local government would be advantageous.
- Strong attention to detail.
- Behaviours in line with the PLA’s Behavioural Framework: Do the Right Thing, Always Improving, One Team.
In return, we offer a competitive benefits package
- 28 days annual leave (plus Bank Holidays)
- Medical Cash Plan (Westfield Health)
- Generous pension – up to 14% employer contribution
- Employee Assistance Programme and access to Wellbeing Resources
- Discounted gym memberships and cycle to work scheme
- Salary sacrifice car scheme (Tusker Cars)
- Reward and recognition portal, with access to a range of discounts
For further information or if you would like to have an informal discussion about the position, please contact Poppy Windsor, Head of External Affairs at poppy. windsor@pla. co. uk
The PLA are not registered with the UK Home Office and do not sponsor candidates who require a visa or work permit to work in the UK, therefore an offer of employment cannot be made unless you currently hold the rights to live and work in the UK.
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Stakeholder Engagement Assistant employer: Thames Skills Academy
As a Lounge Supervisor, you will thrive in a dynamic and supportive work environment that prioritises employee growth and development. Our company fosters a culture of teamwork and excellence, ensuring that every team member is empowered to deliver exceptional service while enjoying unique benefits such as flexible scheduling and opportunities for career advancement. Located in a vibrant area, we offer a rewarding experience where your leadership skills can shine and contribute to memorable events.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Stakeholder Engagement Assistant
✨Dive into Local Government Events
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We think you need these skills to ace Stakeholder Engagement Assistant
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.
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How to prepare for a job interview at Thames Skills Academy
✨Get to Know Public Sector Values
Before your interview with Thames Skills Academy, 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!
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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 Thames Skills Academy.
