At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead public affairs strategies and manage client relationships while mentoring a talented team.
- Company: Join Whitehouse Communications, a dynamic agency shaping political communications in London and Brussels.
- Benefits: Enjoy hybrid working, 25 days holiday, a bonus scheme, and personal development opportunities.
- Other info: Applications are rolling, so apply early to secure your chance!
- Why this job: Be part of a supportive culture that values your input and drives impactful change in public affairs.
- Qualifications: 7+ years in public affairs with strong client management and strategic leadership skills required.
The predicted salary is between 51000 - 63000 € per year.
We are seeking a dynamic and experienced Associate Director to join our UK Public Affairs team. As an Associate Director, you will play a pivotal role in helping us grow and drive the success of our clients' public affairs strategies by ensuring the delivery of high-quality services. This is an internal leadership, external facing and client servicing role that would suit an individual who thrives on direct communication, developing engaging campaign strategies, and enjoys building relationships with stakeholders at all levels.
We care about our team and are looking for an individual who will embrace our management style based on a supportive culture and who will get on board with our mission to remain an effective influence for better in the world of public affairs.
Essential requirements:
- Minimum of 7 years’ experience in public affairs roles.
- Extensive experience in public affairs agencies is essential.
- Parliamentary/political/government experience is essential.
- Proven track record of successfully managing client relationships, developing public affairs strategies and delivering impactful campaigns.
- Proven track record of generating new business and/or expanding existing contracts.
- Proven track record of managing and leading a team, with the ability to inspire, motivate and mentor colleagues.
- Deep understanding of the UK policy landscape, political dynamics and legislative process.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build relationships with diverse stakeholders.
- Strategic thinking, problem-solving abilities and pro-active attitude.
- Excellent spoken and written English (native-speaker level or equivalent). Any additional languages will be considered an asset.
- Experience in tech, digital or financial policy will be considered an asset.
Core competencies:
- Strategic leadership: Devise and execute effective public affairs strategies and advocacy campaigns that achieve tangible results for our clients.
- Strategic counsel: Provide strategic counsel on policy trends, political opportunities, impactful messaging and effective stakeholder engagement.
- Client servicing: Serve as the senior point of contact for clients, helping account managers and/or account directors maintain and deepen relationships, anticipate client needs and proactively offer solutions and opportunities. Ensure client satisfaction through the team’s consistent, high-quality service delivery. Conduct regular reviews of project performance, identifying areas for improvement and cost optimisation. Ensure effective account delivery. Overall responsibility for client retention and profitability within your team structure.
- Business growth: Take a proactive approach in contributing to the growth of the business through active networking. Leading on new business proposals and pitches. Stay ahead of industry trends to position the agency as leaders in the space. Cultivate strong connections and build trust with policymakers, parliamentarians, government officials, industry representatives and journalists.
- Team Management: Lead and mentor a team of talented professionals, providing guidance, support, and fostering a collaborative and high-performing work environment that encourages excellence and accountability. Line management of members of the consulting team and developing junior members of staff.
- Brand ambassadorship: Contribute to the agency’s thought leadership by producing internal and external articles, contributing quotes to the media and participating in industry forums and events. Represent our company with pride, both internally and externally.
- Senior leader: Through membership of the Senior Leadership Team, supporting the Managing Director and Directors in the development and delivery of the company’s business plan. Ensuring that all aspects of the business are properly managed, including the staff, client relationships, budgets, assets and resources, to make best use of them and increase the company’s profitability.
Compensation and Benefits:
- Salary: £61,000-£75,000 per annum based on experience.
- 25 days holiday + 1 additional day per each year of service until reaching 30-day limit; Birthday off; Company bonus scheme; Pension scheme; Private medical insurance; Hybrid working arrangement (1 mandatory day per week in the office, the other 4 voluntary) with great offices in the heart of Central London; Flexible working available; 1 month paid sabbatical after 5 years of service; Bi-annual reviews focusing on personal development; Investment in personal growth: hands-on internal training from public relations and public affairs colleagues and opportunities for external training; Regular socials and outings; Fortnightly Deliveroo allowance; Cycle-to-work scheme; Free eye tests.
How to Apply:
If you are passionate about UK public affairs and meet all of the requirements described above, we would love to hear from you. Please send your CV to us at recruitment@whitehousecomms.com for the attention of Max Wilson by 5th June. Applications will be considered on a rolling basis, so we encourage applicants to submit your CV as soon as possible. Due to the high number of applications received, only selected candidates will be contacted. The first round of interviews will be conducted online with a second round taking place in person in our London offices.
About us:
Whitehouse Communications is an independent issues-led political communications agency based in London and with presence in Brussels, specialising in public affairs, political communications, policy analysis, advocacy campaigns and media relations. We advise clients on how to effectively and positively engage with key decision-makers in Brussels, Westminster, Whitehall, and local government.
Equal opportunities statement:
We are committed to promoting equal opportunities in employment and to make full use of the talents and resources of all employees and to provide a healthy environment that will encourage good and productive working operations within the organisation. You and any job applicant will receive equal treatment regardless of age, disability, gender reassignment, marital or civil partner status, pregnancy or maternity, race, colour, nationality, ethnic or national origin, religion or belief, sex or sexual orientation.
Public Affairs Associate (London Area) employer: Whitehouse Communications
At Whitehouse Communications, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer that fosters a supportive and collaborative work culture in the heart of Central London. Our commitment to employee growth is evident through our investment in personal development, flexible working arrangements, and a generous benefits package, including a month-long paid sabbatical after five years. Join us to make a meaningful impact in public affairs while enjoying a vibrant team environment and opportunities for professional advancement.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Public Affairs Associate (London Area)
✨Tip Number 1
Network actively within the public affairs community. Attend industry events, seminars, and workshops to meet key players in the field. Building relationships with stakeholders can give you insights into potential job openings and help you stand out.
✨Tip Number 2
Stay updated on current UK political trends and policy changes. Being knowledgeable about the latest developments will not only prepare you for interviews but also demonstrate your passion and commitment to the role.
✨Tip Number 3
Consider reaching out to current or former employees of Whitehouse Communications on platforms like LinkedIn. They can provide valuable insights into the company culture and expectations, which can help you tailor your approach during the interview process.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare to discuss specific examples of your past successes in public affairs. Highlight your experience in managing client relationships and delivering impactful campaigns, as these are crucial for the Associate Director role.
We think you need these skills to ace Public Affairs Associate (London Area)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV highlights your relevant experience in public affairs, especially your 7+ years in the field. Emphasise your achievements in managing client relationships and delivering impactful campaigns.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Write a cover letter that showcases your understanding of the UK policy landscape and your strategic leadership skills. Mention specific examples of how you've successfully developed public affairs strategies and engaged with stakeholders.
Highlight Relevant Skills:In your application, clearly outline your communication and interpersonal skills. Provide examples of how you've built relationships with diverse stakeholders and led teams effectively.
Showcase Your Passion:Convey your enthusiasm for public affairs and the mission of the company. Explain why you want to work with them and how you can contribute to their goals, particularly in terms of business growth and client servicing.
How to prepare for a job interview at Whitehouse Communications
✨Showcase Your Experience
With a minimum of 7 years in public affairs roles required, be ready to discuss your past experiences in detail. Highlight specific campaigns you've managed, the strategies you implemented, and the results achieved. This will demonstrate your capability and fit for the role.
✨Understand the Political Landscape
Make sure you have a solid grasp of the current UK policy landscape and political dynamics. Be prepared to discuss recent developments and how they might impact public affairs strategies. This knowledge will show your commitment and expertise in the field.
✨Demonstrate Leadership Skills
As this role involves team management, be ready to share examples of how you've led and mentored teams in the past. Discuss your approach to inspiring and motivating colleagues, as well as any challenges you've faced and how you overcame them.
✨Prepare for Client-Focused Questions
Since client servicing is a key aspect of the role, think about your experience in managing client relationships. Prepare to discuss how you've anticipated client needs, provided solutions, and ensured satisfaction. This will highlight your ability to thrive in a client-facing environment.
