Senior Policy and Public Affairs Advocate - Wales

StepChange Debt Charity; Cardiff; Hybrid; GBP 38,000 - 45,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading charity focused on debt issues is seeking a Senior Policy and Public Affairs Advocate to join their External Affairs team in Cardiff. This role involves leading lobbying campaigns, managing relationships with government entities, and driving policy change to support vulnerable communities. The ideal candidate will have substantial public affairs experience, excellent communication skills, and a deep understanding of the Welsh policy landscape.

Qualifications

• Deep understanding of the Welsh Senedd and Welsh Government.
• Proven ability to influence senior stakeholders and deliver impactful policy change.
• Passionate about social justice and equality.

Responsibilities

• Lead targeted lobbying campaigns and produce reports to influence public policy.
• Build and manage relationships with Welsh Government and Parliament.
• Monitor developments in legislation and provide strategic advice.

Skills

Public affairs experience

Stakeholder influencing

Strong communication skills

Strategic thinking

Organisational skills

Job description

Salary up to £45,000
Location: Cardiff Office Based - Hybrid working with frequent travel to the London office
Shift Pattern: Monday to Friday 9am - 5pm
Contract Type: Fixed Term
Duration: 3 years fixed term contract on a full-time basis
Hours of Work per Week: 35
Closing Date: 08/10/2025
Ref No: 2315

Overview

Are you ready to shape public policy in Wales for lasting social change? Do you want to influence decision-makers and champion the voice of those affected by problem debt? Are you driven to turn insight into action that improves lives across Wales? We’re looking for a Senior Policy and Public Affairs Advocate to join our External Affairs team. You’ll be at the forefront of our work in Wales—connecting StepChange with key stakeholders, driving policy change, and amplifying our mission to create a society free from problem debt. This is a high-impact role where your insight and influence will help shape the future of debt policy and support vulnerable communities.

What you’ll be doing

• Lead targeted lobbying campaigns and produce compelling evidence-based reports, briefings, and articles to influence public policy and regulatory practices.
• Build and manage relationships with the Welsh Government and Parliament, and other influential figures and organisations across Wales.
• Monitor developments in legislation, policy, and research—providing strategic advice on emerging threats and opportunities.
• Represent StepChange at high-profile meetings, conferences, and media engagements, acting as a trusted voice for the charity.
• Organise thought leadership events and roundtables and support senior leaders with speeches and briefings that drive our advocacy forward.
• Ensure our work remains politically impartial and compliant with all relevant regulations, including Charity Commission rules and the Lobbying Act.
• Significant experience in public affairs or public policy within Wales.

Qualifications

• Deep understanding of the Welsh Senedd, Welsh Government, and the broader policy-making landscape.
• Proven ability to influence senior stakeholders and deliver impactful policy change.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with a flair for strategic thinking and political judgement.
• Skilled at building influential networks across government, charities, and civil society.
• Organised, proactive, and passionate about social justice and equality.
• Comfortable working independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced, purpose-driven environment.

Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion

Equality, diversity, and inclusion are incredibly important to us; we have a culture of belonging. We\'re always looking to increase the diversity of our workforce to ensure we can provide the best service possible for everyone. It\'s not just about the professional experience you bring - we\'re interested in who you are and your potential. If there\'s an adjustment to our recruitment process that would help you to be your best, speak to our team and they\'ll be happy to help.