Public Affairs Officer

We're looking for a Public Affairs Officer to join our Public Affairs team.

As a charity operating nationally, with a cause that spans heritage, climate and nature, we have a strong interest in influencing public debates on a wide range of subjects. Our Public Affairs team communicates core advocacy and campaigns messages and promote our cause with key policy, political and other influential audiences.

Please note the advertised salary is inclusive of the Inner London Weighting Allowance, currently £4,465 per annum.

What it's like to work here

As this is a national role, there is flexibility on your contractual place of work. Our hybrid working policy means you can balance office and home working with site visits and meetings at other National Trust places. We'll talk about this in more detail at interview, but you should expect to be at a National Trust site for 40-60% of your working week.

What you'll be doing

As part of this dynamic team, you'll be responsible for building relationships with key external audiences (primarily political and policy audiences), understanding how best to position our work to develop the National Trust's influence and policy impact.

You'll identify and advise on opportunities for advocacy and campaign messages to be communicated to external target audiences and work with National Trust staff and external partners to implement plans to deliver them. Supporting the Head of Public Affairs, you'll need to build and maintain relationships with key political and policy stakeholders, sector partners and others, helping to identify who is key to support the National Trust's agenda.

You'll also be working to grow the capabilities of colleagues to influence external audiences in support of the Trust's strategic priorities at a local or national level, through great research, active listening and networking. You will understand what forms and styles of communication work for target audiences, be confident in the production of campaign materials and capable in writing copy for external audiences.

Who we're looking for

Applications from redeployees are assessed against the minimum criteria for the role. In your application, please provide details of how you meet the minimum criteria below:

• Knowledge of UK political systems (local and national) and campaigning.
• Understanding and some experience with public policy.
• Ability to work with complex information.
• Strong written and verbal communication.
• Experience managing stakeholder relationships.

Criteria for all other applicants:

• A relevant degree or equivalent experience in communications or campaigning.
• Broad understanding of government and related legislation.
• Knowledge of stakeholders in the natural/historic environment and ability to build collaborative relationships.

The package

The National Trust has the motto 'For everyone, for ever' at its heart. We're working hard to create an inclusive culture, where everyone feels they belong. It's important that our people reflect and represent the diversity of the communities and audiences we serve. We welcome and value difference, so when we say we're for everyone, we want everyone to be welcome in our teams too.

• Substantial pension scheme of up to 10% basic salary
• Free entry to National Trust places for you, a guest and your children (under 18)
• Rental deposit loan scheme
• Season ticket loan
• EV car lease scheme (for roles that meet the salary criteria)
• Perks at work discounts such as gym memberships, shopping discount codes, cinema discounts
• Holiday allowance up to 32 days relating to length of service, plus holiday purchase scheme, subject to meeting minimum criteria.
• Flexible working whenever possible
• Employee assistance programme
• Free parking at most Trust places