Senior Public Affairs Leader — Hybrid, London (Science Policy)

ROYAL SOCIETY; Greater London; Hybrid; GBP 60,000 - 85,000; Full time

Job summary

The Royal Society is seeking a Senior Public Affairs Manager to lead our public affairs programme in London. You will shape strategies to influence policy, manage relationships with Parliament and government, and coordinate content across our channels.

This senior role reports to the Head of Public Affairs and oversees a small team. You will contribute to high-impact campaigns, build networks with policy makers, and ensure evidence-based messaging across all engagements.

Qualifications

• Degree level education or equivalent.
• 3–5 years in policy, parliament or public affairs.
• Strong understanding of the UK Parliament and Whitehall policymaking.
• Excellent written and oral communication.
• Interest in science, innovation, technology and education policy.
• Politically astute with senior stakeholder interaction.
• Experience managing people.
• Knowledge of the scientific research system and policy analysis.
• Experience designing and running public affairs campaigns and sector policy forums.

Responsibilities

• Support the Head of Public Affairs to implement the Society's public affairs strategy for maximum exposure and influence among policy makers.
• Identify opportunities and devise public affairs strategies to communicate priority messages to decision-makers.
• Lead and deliver projects and long-term influencing programmes, including events, networks, and analysis to underpin Society advice.
• Coordinate responses and tailored briefings on emerging opportunities and consultations.
• Build relationships with key political contacts and maintain an engagement database.
• Advise leadership and committees on public affairs aspects of their work.
• Oversee the work of the Public Affairs Manager and Coordinator.
• Coordinate tailored content to communicate Society activity to political decision-makers via blogs and social media.
• Produce an annual report evaluating the quality and impact of public affairs activity.
• Maintain contacts with Parliamentarians, government and policy makers.

Skills

Policy engagement

Stakeholder management

Parliamentary process

Strategic thinking

Team leadership

Public affairs campaigns

Communication (oral and written)

Policy communication

Education

Degree or equivalent

Job description

The Royal Society is seeking a Senior Public Affairs Manager to lead our public affairs programme in London. You will shape strategies to influence policy, manage relationships with Parliament and government, and coordinate content across our channels.

This senior role reports to the Head of Public Affairs and oversees a small team. You will contribute to high-impact campaigns, build networks with policy makers, and ensure evidence-based messaging across all engagements.