36747 - Policy Specialist - National

Environment Agency; National (WA); On-site; USD 61,000 - 87,000; Full time

Job summary

The Environment Agency is seeking an experienced Policy Specialist to join the water reform programme team. The role sits at the centre of the EA, shaping operational policy and considering the implications of reforms for the agency's future.

You will work with colleagues across government, the EA and other regulators to build relationships, ensure coherent approaches, and support robust regulatory outcomes in a fast-paced environment.

Qualifications

• Experience in water policy reform and working with government bodies.
• Ability to work at pace and handle diverse perspectives in a high‑profile team.

Responsibilities

• Shape the Environment Agency's policy positions on water reform and the future regulatory landscape.
• Collaborate across policy, strategy, communications and engagement to translate reforms into practice.
• Build and maintain relationships with government colleagues, regulators and stakeholders.
• Support coherence and shared understanding as thinking evolves in a fast-moving programme.

Job description

Please note: Vacancy information displayed on Find a Job may be subject to system limitations. The Environment Agency vacancy page contains the most accurate and up-to-date information for this role. Applicants should refer to the Environment Agency vacancy page for the full job details, including working arrangements, location requirements, and role-specific information.

The Environment Agency are fully committed to having an inclusive workforce to reflect the communities we serve. We don't just talk about diversity; we seek it, embrace it, and live it, for the benefit of our staff, our communities, and our environment.

We’re looking for an experienced Policy Specialist to be part of the EA’s water reform programme team. This is a high profile, fast-paced team sitting at the centre of the EA working on water sector and system reform. This includes helping to shape future operational policy as well as considering what reforms mean for the future of the Environment Agency. This is a unique opportunity to work on an issue of high importance to government and the public in a role with direct access to senior officials within the EA and wider government.

The team

The water reform programme team is leading the Environment Agency’s work to help implement the government’s ambition to reorganize the water sector to deliver safe supplies, protect the environment, and balance customer and investor outcomes. Key work areas for the team are to work closely with Defra on the forthcoming Water Bill (which will include establishing a new water regulator) and improved collaborative working with Ofwat, the Drinking Water Inspectorate and Natural England.

You will help shape the Environment Agency’s response to government ambitions for water system reform, including the creation of a new water regulator. Working across policy, strategy, communications and engagement, you will support the development of EA policy positions and help translate what changes could mean for the future design and role of the organisation.You will work with colleagues across government, the EA and other regulators to build relationships, improve coordination and support better regulatory outcomes. You will help bring people together, create shared understanding, and ensure approaches remain coherent as thinking develops. The role requires someone comfortable working at pace, embracing constructive challenge and diverse perspectives, and contributing positively to a resilient, agile and high-performing team.