Strategic External Affairs & Stakeholder Lead

Department of Health and Social Care; Leeds; On-site; GBP 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

The Department of Health and Social Care is seeking a senior External Affairs lead to steer strategic engagement with key partners and stakeholders in the Leeds area. This maternity leave cover role will develop and deliver an external affairs strategy that supports the department’s priorities and ministers’ objectives.

You will lead a team of external affairs professionals, provide high‑level counsel to ministers, and work closely with the Government Communications profession to ensure a

Responsibilities

• Provide strategic leadership on external affairs, developing and delivering a comprehensive external affairs strategy aligned with communications objectives.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with NHS, social care providers, patient and charity organisations, and industry.
• Lead and develop a high‑performing team of external affairs professionals.
• Advise ministers and senior officials on stakeholder positioning and reputational risk.
• Collaborate with media, strategic communications and internal teams to ensure a joined‑up approach.
• Horizon-scan for emerging issues to shape engagement strategy.

Skills

Stakeholder engagement

Strategic leadership

Public health communications

Policy advisory

Job description

The Department of Health and Social Care is seeking a senior External Affairs lead to steer strategic engagement with key partners and stakeholders in the Leeds area. This maternity leave cover role will develop and deliver an external affairs strategy that supports the department’s priorities and ministers’ objectives.

You will lead a team of external affairs professionals, provide high‑level counsel to ministers, and work closely with the Government Communications profession to ensure a