About the role

An exciting opportunity to work with us as Head of Public Affairs, you will ensure day-to-day delivery of the UK Policy & Public Affairs work, including building and leading a high-performing public affairs team facing Westminster and working closely with related posts in other parts of the UK.

Through leading parts of the development of Sustrans’ overall political strategy for the charity you will support our ambition to achieve impact at scale. You will be working on Sustrans' political strategy as we approach the next general election as well as providing strategic support to geographical directors, whilst identifying and managing any potential political risks to our reputation.

At the same time as building and managing these internal and external relationships, the postholder will also provide specialist advice and expert support with people such as the Executive Director, External Affairs, and other senior members of staff on all matters relating to political strategy and key relationships with external bodies.

the focus of this role will be London/Bristol, and we may occasionally need you to travel further during your work including occasional overnight stays. We offer true hybrid working, a flexible mix of working from home and occasional travel to a nearby London/Bristol office/ hub.

About you

You should have experience in leading, motivating, and managing a team, with the ability to build good working relationships across a wide range of people both internally and externally.

We are seeking extensive specialist experience in advocacy, policy, politics and government, with skills in providing strategic counsel to high-level individuals within and outside own organisation.

Seeking excellent communication skills with the ability to communicate policies, ideas, and concepts both verbally and in writing for a political, media, and public audience. Knowledge of working within a transport policy or political environment would be beneficial.

Sustrans has a long-term commitment to being a charity for everyone - reducing inequality, valuing diversity, enabling inclusion and ensuring all people are treated with dignity and respect. We aim to be a truly inclusive employer and welcome applications from people from all communities, in particular from under-represented groups.