Government Affairs Specialist

TN United Kingdom; London; On-site; GBP 35,000 - 55,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking a passionate Government Affairs Specialist to join their dynamic Corporate Affairs Team. This hybrid role offers the chance to engage in meaningful public affairs work, driving government relations in the EU and UK while promoting sustainability initiatives. The ideal candidate will have a degree in a relevant field and 2-3 years of experience in public affairs, demonstrating excellent communication and stakeholder engagement skills. Join a forward-thinking company committed to redefining packaging and making a positive impact in the world.

Benefits

Discretionary bonus

Pension scheme

Life assurance

Income protection

Employee Assistance Programme

Employee Discounts

Cycle to work scheme

Qualifications

• 2-3 years of experience in public affairs or a similar role.
• Knowledge of sustainability and environmental policies.

Responsibilities

• Monitor and analyze policy developments.
• Develop policy positions and coordinate industry involvement.

Skills

Verbal communication

Written communication

Stakeholder engagement

Policy analysis

Interpersonal skills

Education

Degree in Politics

Degree in Economics

Degree in Law

Job description

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DS Smith is the leading provider of sustainable packaging solutions, paper products, and recycling services. We have been around for over eighty years and operate in over thirty countries across the UK, Europe, and the United States. We are committed to sustainability and the circular economy. Our core purpose is to Redefine Packaging for a Changing World, working with major brands to incorporate renewable resources, minimize environmental impact, reduce complexity, and enhance profitability through supply chain optimization.

About the role

Are you passionate about public affairs and seeking a new challenge?

DS Smith offers a fantastic opportunity for a motivated, energetic self-starter to join the Corporate Affairs Team as a Government Affairs Specialist. This role is ideal for a candidate eager to be part of a dynamic business environment.

Supporting the Head of Government Affairs, you will collaborate with the Corporate Affairs and Sustainability teams to drive government relations in the EU and UK. Your responsibilities include promoting outreach and lobbying, raising awareness, and building relationships with external stakeholders, as well as ensuring compliance with new laws and legislation.

Using your policy expertise and strong communication skills, your duties will include:

• Monitoring, analyzing, and reporting on policy developments
• Developing policy positions for DS Smith
• Coordinating involvement in industry associations
• Mapping and engaging with stakeholders

If you are detail-oriented, a confident collaborator, and interested in sustainability issues, we may be looking for you!

About you

• Degree in Politics, Economics, Law, or a related field (or equivalent)
• Approximately 2-3 years of experience in public affairs or a similar role
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills
• Knowledge of a European language (French or German) is advantageous
• Understanding of UK and EU policy processes and institutions
• Knowledge of sustainability, climate, and environmental policies
• Strong interpersonal skills, proactive, and confident to build rapport with colleagues and stakeholders from diverse backgrounds

Benefits include:

• Discretionary bonus
• Pension scheme, life assurance, and income protection
• Employee Assistance Programme
• Employee Discounts
• Cycle to work scheme

Location: This is a hybrid role, based between the London Paddington office and home, with flexibility required as needed.