At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead public affairs strategy and advise senior leaders on political risks and opportunities.
- Company: The Crown Estate, a key player in shaping policy and engaging with government.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible working, private healthcare, and 28 days holiday.
- Other info: Join a supportive team committed to innovation and work-life balance.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on policy while working at the heart of an influential organisation.
- Qualifications: Experience in public affairs and strong communication skills required.
The predicted salary is between 80000 - 100000 € per year.
The Public Affairs and Policy Strategic Director will play a pivotal role in shaping how The Crown Estate engages with government, Parliament and the wider policy landscape. The role leads our enterprise‑wide public affairs strategy, ensuring we anticipate political developments, influence effectively, and protect and enhance our reputation. Working at the heart of the organisation, the postholder will advise senior leaders, including the CEO and Chair, on the most significant policy risks and opportunities facing the business.
Context of Opportunity / Main Accountabilities:
- Lead the design and delivery of an enterprise‑wide Public Affairs and Policy Strategy aligned to The Crown Estate’s purpose and long‑term priorities.
- Act as a senior advisor to the CEO, Chair, ExCo and Board on political risk, reputational issues and emerging policy developments.
- Provide systems‑level insight on how political and policy changes impact our work across the UK.
- Drive innovation in public affairs, using data and technology (including AI) to enhance insight and influence.
- Lead and develop the Public Affairs and Policy team, fostering a high‑performing, politically astute culture.
- Shape organisational policy positions, ensuring they are evidence‑based, coherent and influential.
- Build and maintain strategic relationships with Ministers, senior officials, parliamentarians, advisers and regulators.
- Oversee government and parliamentary engagement, ensuring timely, high‑quality responses to inquiries and scrutiny.
- Act as a strategic connector across Corporate Affairs, ensuring alignment of messaging and engagement.
- Lead cross‑cutting work on sustainability policy, working closely with the Chief Sustainability Officer.
- Manage agency partners and budgets, ensuring value and measurable impact.
Most Important Skills‑Based Requirements:
- Significant experience in government or public affairs, with a deep understanding of UK political systems and parliamentary processes.
- Proven ability to advise senior leaders on complex, high‑profile issues.
- Strong track record of building trusted relationships with senior political and policy stakeholders.
- Experience leading teams through change, ambiguity or organisational transformation.
- Ability to translate complex policy and political information into clear, actionable insight.
- Skilled communicator, able to influence at the highest levels internally and externally.
- Confident working at pace, prioritising effectively and delivering high‑quality outputs under pressure.
- Commitment to innovation, including the use of technology and data to enhance public affairs work.
We encourage applications from candidates who may feel they do not meet every essential requirement. The Crown Estate is committed to skills‑based hiring and recognises transferable experience.
Our Offering / Benefits:
As well as a competitive salary, pension and performance‑related bonus offering, we have a wealth of benefits available ranging from flexible working; market‑leading family policies and shopping discounts in the West End, to private healthcare; life and critical illness cover and 28 days’ holiday with the option to buy more. We value work–life balance and your wellbeing highly, enabling you to be your best self at work.
Disability Disclaimer:
We are a proud Disability Confident Employer and operate the Offer of Interview Scheme. We are happy to offer alternative application methods or formats and can be flexible in our process to ensure you have the best opportunity. If you have any questions about our recruitment process or would like to discuss adjustments, please contact us directly or at careers@thecrownestate.co.uk.
Please note that if we receive a high volume of applications, we may close this advert early. We encourage you to apply as soon as possible.
Public Affairs and Policy Strategic Director in London employer: The Crown Estate
The Crown Estate is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment in the heart of London where innovation and strategic thinking thrive. With a strong commitment to employee wellbeing, we provide a competitive salary, flexible working options, and extensive benefits including market-leading family policies and private healthcare. Our culture fosters professional growth and collaboration, empowering you to influence significant policy developments while working alongside senior leaders in a supportive and inclusive atmosphere.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Public Affairs and Policy Strategic Director in London
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with people in the public affairs and policy space. Attend events, join relevant groups, and don’t be shy about reaching out to folks on LinkedIn. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for those interviews! Research The Crown Estate and understand their public affairs strategy. Be ready to discuss how your experience aligns with their goals and how you can help them navigate political landscapes. Show them you’re not just another candidate!
✨Tip Number 3
Follow up after interviews! A quick thank-you email can go a long way. It shows your enthusiasm for the role and keeps you fresh in their minds. Plus, it’s a great chance to reiterate why you’re the perfect fit for the team.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take that extra step to engage with us directly.
We think you need these skills to ace Public Affairs and Policy Strategic Director in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to reflect the specific skills and experiences mentioned in the job description. We want to see how your background aligns with the role of Public Affairs and Policy Strategic Director.
Showcase Your Experience:Highlight your significant experience in government or public affairs. We’re looking for examples that demonstrate your ability to advise senior leaders and build trusted relationships with key stakeholders.
Be Clear and Concise:When writing your application, keep it clear and to the point. Use straightforward language to convey complex ideas, as this will show us your communication skills and ability to translate policy information effectively.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to submit your application through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. Don’t wait too long; apply early to avoid missing out!
How to prepare for a job interview at The Crown Estate
✨Know Your Political Landscape
Before the interview, make sure you’re up to speed on current political developments and how they might impact The Crown Estate. Familiarise yourself with recent legislation, key government figures, and any relevant public affairs strategies that could influence the organisation.
✨Showcase Your Advisory Skills
Be prepared to discuss your experience advising senior leaders on complex issues. Think of specific examples where your insights made a difference, especially in high-pressure situations. This will demonstrate your ability to navigate the intricacies of public affairs effectively.
✨Build Relationships in the Room
During the interview, focus on how you can build and maintain strategic relationships. Share examples of how you've successfully engaged with senior political stakeholders in the past, and highlight your approach to fostering trust and collaboration.
✨Emphasise Innovation and Technology
The role requires a commitment to innovation, so be ready to discuss how you’ve used data and technology in your previous roles. Whether it’s leveraging AI for insights or enhancing public affairs strategies, showcasing your forward-thinking mindset will set you apart.