At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead public affairs strategy and advise senior leaders on political risks and opportunities.
- Company: The Crown Estate, a unique business with a rich heritage and diverse portfolio.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible working, private healthcare, and 28 days holiday.
- Other info: Inclusive hiring practices and commitment to work-life balance.
- Why this job: Shape policy engagement and make a real impact in a dynamic environment.
- Qualifications: Experience in public affairs, strong communication skills, and ability to influence at high levels.
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.
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.
Qualifications
- 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.
Inclusion & Applications
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. 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 at careers@thecrownestate.co.uk.
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.
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 employer: The Crown Estate
The Crown Estate is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment where innovation and strategic thinking are at the forefront of public affairs and policy engagement. With a commitment to employee wellbeing, flexible working arrangements, and a strong focus on professional development, we empower our team to thrive while shaping impactful policies that resonate across the UK. Our unique portfolio and heritage provide a stimulating backdrop for meaningful work, making us an attractive choice for those seeking to influence the future of public affairs.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Public Affairs and Policy Strategic Director
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with people in the public affairs and policy scene. 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
Show off your expertise! When you get the chance to chat with potential employers or during interviews, make sure to highlight your understanding of UK political systems and how you've navigated complex issues in the past. This will set you apart from the crowd.
✨Tip Number 3
Be proactive! Don’t just wait for job postings to pop up. Reach out directly to organisations you admire, like The Crown Estate, and express your interest in contributing to their mission. A well-timed email can open doors you didn’t even know existed.
✨Tip Number 4
Keep it fresh! Stay updated on current political developments and trends in public affairs. Being able to discuss recent changes and their implications during interviews shows that you’re not just knowledgeable but also genuinely passionate about the field.
We think you need these skills to ace Public Affairs and Policy Strategic Director
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 The Crown Estate's values and mission. Show us that you get what we do and how you can contribute!
Be Clear and Concise:We love a good story, but keep it relevant! Use clear language and avoid jargon where possible. Highlight your key achievements and experiences that align with the role, making it easy for us to see why you're the perfect fit.
Showcase Your Impact:When detailing your experience, focus on the impact you've made in previous roles. Use specific examples that demonstrate your ability to advise senior leaders and navigate complex political landscapes. We want to see how you can bring that expertise to us!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets into the right hands. Plus, it shows us you're keen and ready to engage with our process from the get-go!
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 policy changes. This will show that you’re not just interested in the role but also engaged with the wider context.
✨Prepare to Advise at the Highest Level
Since this role involves advising senior leaders, think about how you can demonstrate your experience in providing strategic insights. Prepare examples of past situations where you successfully navigated complex political issues or advised on high-profile matters. Be ready to discuss how you can bring that expertise to The Crown Estate.
✨Showcase Your Relationship-Building Skills
Building trusted relationships is key in public affairs. Come prepared with examples of how you’ve developed and maintained strategic relationships with political stakeholders. Highlight your communication skills and how you’ve influenced decisions at a senior level, as this will be crucial for the role.
✨Emphasise Innovation and Data Use
The job description mentions a commitment to innovation, particularly through technology and data. Think about how you’ve used data-driven insights in your previous roles to enhance public affairs strategies. Be ready to discuss specific tools or technologies you’ve employed and how they’ve made an impact.
