Policy & Public Affairs Advisor (Wales)

The Law Society; Cardiff; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Hybrid working

Flexible benefits

Friendly working environment

Career development

Job summary

The Law Society in Wales is seeking a policy and public affairs lead to shape legal and justice policy, influence decisions, and strengthen relationships with Welsh Government, Senedd members and legal partners. You will develop evidence-based policy positions and advise on emerging issues affecting solicitors and access to justice in Wales.

This role combines policy expertise, political insight and strategic relationship management, offering hybrid working and opportunities to drive outcomes

Qualifications

• Proven ability to influence public policy and public affairs in Wales.
• Strong understanding of Welsh and UK political/legal landscape.
• Experience researching and interpreting complex policy issues.
• Excellent written and verbal communication to diverse audiences.
• Strong relationship-building with colleagues, government officials and partners.

Responsibilities

• Lead development and delivery of public affairs in Wales.
• Influence outcomes by developing evidence-based policy positions.
• Monitor political and legislative developments and provide strategic advice.
• Build and maintain relationships with Welsh Government officials, Senedd members and partner organisations.

Skills

Policy influence

Public affairs

Stakeholder engagement

Welsh political landscape

Research & analysis

Clear written & verbal comms

Job description

This is an exciting opportunity to play a leading role in shaping legal and justice policy in Wales. Working within the Law Society's Wales Office, you will help influence policy development, strengthen relationships with key decision-makers, and ensure the voice of solicitors is heard across the Welsh political and legal landscape. Drawing on your expertise in policy and public affairs, you will provide strategic advice, monitor political and legislative developments, and contribute to campaigns that support the legal profession and access to justice in Wales.

You will lead the development and delivery of public affairs activity in Wales, working closely with colleagues, members, policymakers and stakeholders to develop evidence-based policy positions and influence outcomes that support the Law Society's strategic priorities. You will build and maintain strong relationships with Welsh Government officials, Members of the Senedd, regulators, representative bodies and other partners, while providing expert analysis and clear recommendations on emerging policy issues affecting the profession.

This is a varied and rewarding role where your ability to combine policy expertise, political insight and relationship management will make a tangible difference to solicitors, the justice system and access to justice throughout Wales.

What we're looking for

We're looking for someone experienced in policy and public affairs delivery, within the Welsh political and policy environment, who can build credibility quickly, navigate complex political situations and deliver impactful outcomes. You will bring:

• Proven experience of influencing public policy and public affairs activity in Wales, developing persuasive policy positions and recommendations, and building support among key stakeholders.
• A strong understanding of the Welsh and wider UK political and legal landscape, with an ability to quickly develop expertise in emerging issues affecting the legal profession and justice system.
• Experience of researching, analysing and interpreting complex policy issues, with the ability to provide clear, evidence-based recommendations.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to explain complex legal and public policy issues clearly and persuasively to a range of audiences.
• Strong relationship-building skills and the ability to work effectively with colleagues, elected representatives, government officials, members and partner organisations.

You will also be highly organised, self-motivated and comfortable managing multiple priorities, while working collaboratively to support wider organisational objectives.

What's in it for you

The successful candidate will join a strong brand with a reputation for excellence and legal expertise, committed to promoting equality, diversity and inclusion, and a culture of trust, clarity, excellence and respect.

We offer hybrid working, a generous flexible benefits package, a friendly working environment and the opportunity to develop your career within a professional organisation.

The Law Society represents solicitors in England and Wales. From influencing government and regulators to providing advice, support and professional development opportunities, we are here to help, protect and promote solicitors.