At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead external affairs and enhance the PLA's reputation while engaging with key stakeholders.
- Company: Join the UK's largest port, pivotal to the economy and environmental protection.
- Benefits: Enjoy 30 days annual leave, private health insurance, and a generous pension scheme.
- Other info: Dynamic role with opportunities for professional growth and a commitment to diversity.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on the Thames Vision strategy and drive policy change.
- Qualifications: Degree level education or equivalent experience in stakeholder management.
The predicted salary is between 88362 - 88362 £ per year.
Department: Corporate Affairs
Reporting to: Director of Corporate Affairs
Grade: 2
Salary: £88,362 per annum + £6,077 per annum car allowance
Contract: Fixed term (maternity cover)
Base: London (Walsingham House)
Closing date: 13 November 2026 (we may close this vacancy early if sufficient applications are received ahead of the closing date)
Interview dates: In-person interviews are scheduled to take place on 1 and 3 December 2026, with successful candidates invited to a final-stage interview on 9 December 2026.
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
We are looking for an experienced Head of External Affairs to join the team on a fixed term contract, providing maternity leave cover for the role. Whilst working with stakeholders and partners to build the PLA’s external reputation as a trusted port, you will also be responsible for increasing engagement with the Thames Vision strategy and its goals. The successful candidate will use new and established networks and industry trade bodies/representative groups, proactively engaging with MPs, Assembly Members and other elected representatives to further the PLA’s business priorities and progress toward the Thames Vision goals. You will coordinate the PLA’s role in external steering groups and memberships of representative organisations/trade bodies to ensure maximum benefit and value-for-money.
What we are looking for
- You will be educated to degree level and/or have at least ten years’ equivalent experience.
- Experience in senior-level stakeholder management in the ports/maritime/transport & logistics industries or a comparable sector; used to working in a complex stakeholder environment, turning strategy into action.
- Familiar with policy making and how to establish influence.
- Existing networks in Whitehall, Westminster and City Hall, with a particular focus on local government; effective political antenna and acumen.
- Proven ability to build and leverage networks to deliver policy change or improvements.
- Experienced line manager, able to lead an engaged and high-performing team.
- Ability to provide strategic counsel to senior leaders.
- Excellent written and verbal communications skills.
- Although maritime experience would be beneficial – transportation, logistics, police and utilities would all be an advantage.
- Experience of working in a highly unionised workforce.
Our behaviours
You naturally demonstrate our values:
- One Team – acting with integrity, delivering on commitments, and upholding safety and standards.
- Do the Right Thing – collaborating, valuing others’ expertise, and supporting colleagues.
- Always Improving – bringing fresh thinking, learning from mistakes and driving continuous improvement.
Benefits package
In return, we offer a competitive benefits package:
- 30 days annual leave + Bank Holidays
- Private Health Insurance
- Generous pension scheme – up to 14% employer contribution
- Access to Occupational Health, Mindfulness, Counselling and Physiotherapy
- Cycle to Work Scheme
- Access to MyGym Discounts
- 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 Sian Foster (Director of Corporate Affairs) via her EA.
Inclusion Statement
The PLA are committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace and welcome applications from all backgrounds, experiences and perspectives. Candidates will be assessed against the essential requirements for the role. Where candidates can demonstrate relevant transferable skills and experience, we encourage them to apply. 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.
Head of External Affairs (Maternity Cover) in London employer: Thamesacademy
Thamesacademy is dedicated to fostering a supportive work culture that prioritizes employee development and safety. With a focus on sustainability and innovation, the company provides numerous opportunities for career advancement in the recycling and waste management industry.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of External Affairs (Maternity Cover) in London
✨Get Engaged in Local Politics
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We think you need these skills to ace Head of External Affairs (Maternity Cover) in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Emphasise your understanding of public policy:In your application, make sure to highlight any knowledge or experience you have related to public policy, governance or community engagement. Show us how you can contribute to the public sector’s mission, especially if you've worked on relevant projects or initiatives before!
Tailor your CV to the sector's expectations:When crafting your CV, focus on including experiences that showcase your ability to work within government structures or similar environments. Use clear, concise language and consider adding any volunteer work or internships that reflect your commitment to public service.
Show flexibility and willingness to learn:Since this is a temporary role, it’s crucial to convey your adaptability and eagerness to pick up new skills quickly. In your cover letter, let us know how you plan to make the most of this short-term experience and what you hope to learn from it.
Include relevant certificates and training:If you've completed any training or have certifications that are relevant to the role (like public administration, project management, or data analysis), don't forget to mention them. These can really make you stand out in the application process!
How to prepare for a job interview at Thamesacademy
✨Demonstrate Your Commitment to Public Service
In the government and public sector, showing that you're genuinely passionate about serving the community is key. Get ready to share examples where you've contributed to social good or tackled community issues, as this will resonate with interviewers from Thamesacademy.
✨Prepare for Policy and Regulatory Questions
Expect questions about policies, regulations, or recently implemented government initiatives. Brush up on the latest news relating to public sector developments—being informed will help you demonstrate that you're ready to hit the ground running, especially in a temporary role.
✨Flexibility is Your Best Friend
Since this is a temporary role, emphasise your ability to adapt quickly. Share examples where you've successfully taken on new challenges or adjusted to different team dynamics, that'll show Thamesacademy that you’re reliable and can effectively support various projects without a long onboarding process.
✨Prepare to Showcase Teamwork Skills
In the public sector, collaboration is vital. Be ready to discuss past experiences working in teams, especially in diverse environments. Highlight how you've contributed positively to group settings—this could really set you apart from other candidates in this temporary role.
