AddressUK Public Affairs Manager
National Oceanography Centre, Southampton or Liverpool
Permanent
Full time : 37 hours per week
£50,017 per annum (Band 5)
Who are we?
We are the National Oceanography Centre (NOC) - the UK's centre of excellence for oceanographic sciences. We are a national research organisation, delivering integrated marine science and technology from the coast to the deep ocean.
We are made up of a dynamic and vibrant community whose focus is on improving the world in which we live. Our work is balanced by our strong sense of purpose, values and behaviours and an unwavering commitment to a ‘one NOC’ approach.
We have a rich history dating back to 1949, and our future has never looked more exciting as we aim to be the world’s most innovative oceanographic institution.
About the role
This is a UK facing Public Affairs role that is responsible for developing and implementing appropriate strategies to map, build and maintain the National Oceanography Centre’s relationship with stakeholders, regionally and nationally. The main focus of the role is growing our UK Government partnerships, influencing ocean policy and associated funding, and ensuring NOC retains its position as the key expert in ocean issues, as well as ensuring strong relationships with key stakeholders in our space whilst developing new and exciting relationships.
Other main duties include:
Monitor political activity in key UK government departments (DSIT; DEFRA; FCDO; Transport; MOD) and provide strategic input to senior leaders and the wider team on the policy, procedural and political challenges facing NOC.
Manage NOC’s relationships with parliamentarians and their staff
Horizon scan to identify possible issues/opportunities in the evolving public policy environment and lead the development of solutions that position NOC as a trusted science partner
Lead NOC’s role in the All-Party Parliamentary Group for the Ocean
Lead NOC’s input into parliamentary inquiries, events and select committees
Draft policy papers, briefings, consultation, and committee responses
Advise the UK Government and a wide range of industry partners on NOC’s scientific and technological capabilities and position the relevant experts to provide advice.
About you
We are looking for an individual with exceptional communication and influencing skills with experience working with navigating sectors such as media, Public relations, lobbying and brand development, who will be able to objectively recognise the value relationships could bring to NOC and have experience of monitoring and upkeeping those important links. Experience in working in a technical or scientific organisation would be desirable for the ability to clearly translate science and research for different audiences, and relate those concepts to accessible areas of interest and calls to action for NOC.
We also need to see demonstrated knowledge and experience of developing policy asks and working with government bodies, regulatory bodies or NGOs.
We are looking for a pro-active and flexible individual who can navigate changing political landscapes to develop strong external relationships as well as being comfortable making recommendations at executive and board level.
You will be a considerate communicator with both the outward facing responsibilities and all-important internal relationship building to stay abreast of the variety of NOC’s interactions with Government through a wide variety of personnel, as well as being a trusted advisor to senior leadership.
Why the NOC?
We offer a generous set of benefits including 30 days annual leave, plus 3.5 local closure days and 8 public bank holidays, and a contributory Group Personal Pension Plan.
We promote an inclusive and supportive environment where our people can meet their full potential.
The NOC is an equal opportunities employer and welcomes applications from all sections of the community. There is a guaranteed interview scheme for suitable candidates with a disability and we welcome applications from ethnic minorities currently under-represented. The NOC is an Investors in People organisation.
Location
This position can be based in Southampton or Liverpool. Our Southampton site is well connected by public transport and has ample cycle parking in addition to free onsite car-parking. The Liverpool centre is part of the University campus and is only a short walk from the city centre and Lime Street station.
The NOC has a hybrid working approach where for most positions staff can work from home up to 2 days per week. If you are interested in this position, but require a more flexible working arrangement, please contact the recruitment team using the contact details below.
We can support visa applications where required. For overseas applicants who are willing to move to the UK we may be able to offer financial support with relocation.
How to apply:
Please click ‘Apply for this job’ and submit an up-to-date CV and cover letter. If you are unable to apply online, please contact the NOC recruitment team at careers@noc.ac.uk / 07590 805967
Before submitting your application, please ensure you have reviewed the attached job description and person specification.
Date advert posted: 07/03/2024
Closing date: 04/04/2024. Please note this vacancy may close earlier depending on the number of applicants.
Please note we are not accepting applications via recruitment agencies for this position.
Assessing applications
All applications to the NOC are reviewed by a real-life person, not a computer programme. Attached to our adverts you will find a ‘Job Description and Person Specification’ document which clearly sets out the criteria against which applications are assessed. Once assessed the most suitable candidates will be invited to interview.
