Director of External Engagement, London

Hanson Search; Greater London; On-site; GBP 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading consultancy firm in the UK is seeking a Director of External Engagement to shape public affairs at a national level. You will lead the public affairs strategy, engage with senior stakeholders, and strengthen the organisation's presence in national policy discussions. The ideal candidate has proven experience in public affairs and strategic communications, exceptional communication skills, and strong leadership capabilities. This role is pivotal for enhancing the organisation's visibility and influence in key sectors.

Qualifications

• Proven experience in senior public affairs, external engagement, or strategic communications at a national level.
• Track record of influencing policy and managing relationships with senior stakeholders.
• Exceptional communication skills for representing the organisation externally.

Responsibilities

• Lead the development of a public affairs strategy to enhance the organisation’s presence.
• Oversee external engagement activities and strengthen the digital presence.
• Build and manage senior-level relationships with key stakeholders.

Skills

Influencing policy

Exceptional communication

Leadership

Strategic change management

Job description

Leading Public Affairs and Policy Influence at National Level

An exciting opportunity has arisen for a dynamic leader to join a prominent organisation, taking charge of the strategic direction of external engagement and public affairs. As the Director of External Engagement, you will be responsible for shaping and driving high-impact activities to elevate the organisation’s visibility, reputation, and influence across national policy discussions, public discourse, and stakeholder networks. Your efforts will ensure the organisation’s research and thought leadership play a critical role in national and international conversations.

Key Responsibilities: Public Affairs, External Engagement and Stakeholder Influence

• Lead the development and execution of a comprehensive public affairs strategy to enhance the organisation’s presence across key sectors, including Government, Parliament, and policy organisations.
• Oversee external engagement activities, ensuring strategic positioning across policy, academic, public, and commissioning sectors.
• Build and manage senior-level relationships with media, ministers, parliamentarians, civil servants, and policy bodies to influence national conversations.
• Strengthen the organisation’s digital presence, ensuring social media and digital outputs align with broader strategic goals.
• Represent the organisation at high-level national conferences, policy forums, and media platforms.
• Lead the strategy for disseminating major publications, ensuring they engage key policymakers and public audiences.
• Drive the development of strategic partnerships with key stakeholders such as government bodies, think tanks, and sector partners.
• Lead a team focused on ensuring alignment with organisational priorities and growth objectives.

Key Requirements: Senior Public Affairs and Strategic Communications Experience

• Proven experience in senior public affairs, external engagement, or strategic communications at a national level, ideally within an agency or similar setting.
• A track record of influencing policy, working with the media, and managing relationships with senior national stakeholders.
• Exceptional communication skills with the ability to represent the organisation externally and translate complex research into impactful narratives.
• Strong leadership and team management capabilities, with experience in driving strategic change.
• Deep understanding of national policy landscapes and political processes.
• Ability to think strategically, anticipate shifts in the political or social climate, and position the organisation accordingly.

If you have the relevant experience and this opportunity sounds interesting to you, please get in touch with our team, including a copy of your CV as soon as possible via the form below.

We are committed to equality of opportunity for all. You can access our Diversity and Inclusion Policy here.