Post Graduate Project - working with the Head of PA to deliver a plan for stakeholder engagement and advocacy - 12 Month Fixed Term Contract

We are offering a great opportunity for someone to join the Public Affairs team of a major UK retailer, and to secure a 12 month placement in a fast-paced, rewarding and challenging environment. You will get involved in a range of key policy areas for the business, from the environment to employment, and support the team in maintaining relationships with national and local stakeholders including MPs, local councillors and civil servants.

This is your chance to work with our Public Affairs team to deliver a plan for stakeholder engagement and advocacy, to promote the values of Sainsbury’s Group. In particular, you will focus on supporting and helping to maintain a contact management programme, designed to raise awareness of the things that make us different. Senior colleagues will rely on you to write policy briefings to support them as they promote Sainsbury’s work in communities across the UK.

You should already have an understanding of Parliamentary procedures and the current policy challenges facing retailers. But you will be given the opportunity to deepen your understanding of the current regulatory, legislative and political landscape, while learning how to engage senior colleagues. You will witness the many ways our fast-moving retail business interacts with the public policy landscape, as you broaden your commercial awareness.

Your team colleagues and line manager will play an active part in supporting your development. You will enjoy a full induction plus access to training and learning, guidance and coaching. This is sure to be a really memorable internship that will offer a great step forward in your career.

You will have a relevant undergraduate degree, ideally in a subject like politics or economics, and you are likely to have conducted postgraduate study too. You should demonstrate an interest in current affairs, a grasp of policy and the challenges facing retailers, and show a clear track record of taking initiative during relevant work experience.