Policy Manager

British Veterinary Association; Bristol; Remote; GBP 10,000 - 40,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player seeks a passionate Policy Manager to influence key policy issues impacting the veterinary sector. This role offers a unique opportunity to collaborate with senior leaders and external partners, driving advocacy strategies that support animal welfare and the profession. You'll engage with stakeholders, monitor legislative developments, and prepare insightful briefings. If you're a mid-level professional with a knack for building relationships and navigating the political landscape, this role is perfect for you. Join a mission-driven team committed to making a difference in the veterinary world.

Benefits

5 weeks’ holiday plus bank holidays

Birthday as a paid day off

Cycle to work scheme

Discounted staff pet care

Company pension

Employee Assistance Programme

Single Private Healthcare

Family-friendly policies

Qualifications

• 6+ years in public affairs or policy-related roles.
• Strong knowledge of UK political landscape and legislation.

Responsibilities

• Build relationships with stakeholders, including government and NGOs.
• Develop advocacy strategies aligned with business objectives.

Skills

Public Affairs

Policy Analysis

Stakeholder Relationship Management

Advocacy Strategies

Legislative Processes

Communication Skills

Education

Bachelor's Degree in Political Science or Related Field

Master's Degree (Desirable)

Job description

UK, remote-based within Central London commuting distance.

Healthy Animals, Happy Owners – that’s the goal.

We are IVC Evidensia and are on a mission to build the world’s best veterinary group. Investing in people, premises, and processes, we deliver outstanding care in around 2,500 locations globally.

We are looking for aPolicy Managerto join us and play a key role in shaping and implementing our approach to policy, political, and regulatory matters across the UK and Europe. You’ll have the opportunity to collaborate with senior leaders and external partners to positively influence key policy issues impacting the veterinary sector, animal welfare, and other areas relevant to our mission. Your focus will be on building relationships with stakeholders and driving advocacy strategies that support our business and the wider profession.

Day to day, the Policy Manager will be involved in:

• Building and maintaining relationships with key stakeholders, including government agencies, regulatory bodies, NGOs, and industry associations.
• Supporting the development of policy positions on animal welfare, sustainability, governance, and workforce issues.
• Developing and delivering advocacy strategies aligned with IVC’s business objectives.
• Preparing clear, concise briefing documents and content for key meetings and stakeholder engagements.
• Collaborating with internal teams to align policy initiatives with business priorities.
• Monitoring legislation and policy developments, providing actionable insights and recommendations.
• Contributing to government consultations and ensuring our views are represented.

Experience/Capabilities

• We are looking for a mid-level policy and public affairs professional, with 6+ years of previous experience in one or more of the following environments:
• UK Parliament
• UK Civil Service
• Public affairs consulting firm
• In-house government affairs
• Similar experience in other European countries aside from the UK would be helpful, but not essential.

In return, you will benefit from:

• 5 weeks’ holiday, plus bank holidays.
• Your birthday as a paid day off each year.
• Cycle to work scheme.
• Discounted staff pet care.
• Company pension.
• Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) and supportive well-being initiatives.
• Single Private Healthcare.
• Family-friendly policies.

Ideally, the Policy Manager will have:

• 6+ years’ experience in public affairs, policy, or government relations (e.g., UK Parliament, Civil Service, public affairs consulting).
• Strong knowledge of the UK political landscape, legislative processes, and policy analysis.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, able to translate complex information into accessible briefings.
• Proven ability to build and maintain stakeholder relationships.
• Experience in developing and executing advocacy strategies.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and work in a fast-paced, fluid environment.
• Strong judgement and strategic foresight.

Desirable experience:

• Familiarity with European policy and public affairs.
• Experience in the veterinary, healthcare, or retail sectors.
• Knowledge of European languages of benefit.
• Following receipt of your application, you will be contacted by one of our experienced recruitment team.

At IVC Evidensia we are a committed to Diversity, Equality, Inclusion and Belonging, we are keen to hear from candidates from all minority and diverse groups. As a Disability Confident Employer, we are keen to hear from candidates with disabilities and long-term health conditions and would be happy to discuss any reasonable adjustments needed during the recruitment process.