Senior Policy & Public Affairs Manager

We are looking for a dynamic and experienced individual to help us increase our policy influence and raise the profile of the Design Council, the role and value of design, and our Design for Planet mission. You will be joining us at an exciting time, playing a key role in; overseeing and implementing our government champion strategy; developing a policy, advocacy and public affairs strategy to support our skills mission; and driving forward our four policy priorities. ​

About the role:

Core responsibilities:​

• Developing and managing a strategic policy, advocacy and public affairs plan that builds the Design Council’s reputation and position as the National Strategic Advisor on design.​

• Managing strategic policy-related projects aligned to the Design Council's Design for Planet mission; communicating a clear vision for these projects, ensuring they align to our organisational strategy and team objectives as part of business planning.​

• Building and managing strong relationships with relevant Ministers, parliamentarians, civil servants, policy makers, partner organisations and other external agencies to inform the Government’s agenda.​

Additional responsibilities:​

• Leading the development of key policy publications in line with key moments in the political calendar, including policy briefs, evidence statements, consultation responses, speeches and blogs.​

• Maintaining an effective parliamentary and political monitoring system.​

• Overseeing the preparation of agile briefs and political insight for senior internal and external stakeholders, drawing on our own research and evidence, and engagement with key stakeholders.​

• Representing the Design Council at external events incl. policy roundtables, steering groups and advisory boards.​

• Political media management and engagement, including writing press releases, articles and taking part in interviews. ​

• Management of budget and resources relating to policy, advocacy and public affairs work.​

• Monitoring and measuring the effectiveness of our policy, advocacy and public affairs strategy and work.​

Skills & Experience

• Strong policy, public affairs and advocacy capability – at least 5 years' experience working in a relevant role, with a track record of impact​.

• Excellent internal and external relationship and stakeholder management skills, with an established policy network​.

• A strong understanding of how Westminster works​.

• Excellent communication, facilitation and presentation skills (both written and verbal)​.

• Track record of engaging and influencing a wide range of senior stakeholders including MPs, Ministers, Mayors etc. through a variety of approaches.

• Ability to quickly analyse and distil complex data, research and policy documents into a focused strategy with actionable priorities​.

• Ability to work collaboratively – develop effective working relationships and understand diverse perspectives​.

• Leadership and line management experience​.

• Strong planning, budget and resource management skills​.

• Passionate about our Design for Planet mission​.

Ideally expertise in one (or more) of the following policy areas:​

• Design and innovation​

• Education and skills​

• Net zero and the green transition​

• Housing and infrastructure​

Our values and behaviours

• Boundless Curiosity. Dynamic scoping of new ideas and best working practices to create and demonstrate impact. 
• Inspire Possibility. Brilliant team and project leadership so we clearly communicate the value and impact of design. 
• Powerful Together. Role modelling how to get the best out of everyone so we all maximise our contribution to Design for Planet.

Corporate responsibilities

• Proactively identify and manage risks and financial controls in relation to the Design Council and your specific area of responsibility.
• Comply with the Design Council’s operational policies and procedures including financial and risk management, project management and evaluation processes, brand guidelines, GDPR, information security and internal health and safety policy.

Applications

Please submit your application by 10 January 2025.

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Please email Ishbel Allotey, HR Manager recruitment@designcouncil.org.uk if you have questions about the role.

The Design Council is fully committed to being a diverse and inclusive organisation.  We welcome applications from everyone who meets the criteria.  If you need any additional support, please do send in an early alert to our email address above.​