We are recruiting an External Affairs Manager to join our External Affairs team.

This role can be based at any of our following offices: Newcastle, Stockton-on-Tees, Durham or Leeds - with regular travel across the region.

Reporting to the Head of External Affairs (Yorkshire & North East), you will work closely with Managing Directors and regional teams in a hands-on role focused on managing reputation and building strong relationships with key political stakeholders.

You will play a central role in delivering our external affairs strategy across six operating businesses: leading engagement with councillors, MPs, officers, media and local communities.

This role would suit someone ready to step up into their first manager role, or an experienced external affairs or communications professional looking for broader responsibility.

What you’ll be doing:
• Organising and leading stakeholder engagement to support planning applications; working directly with councillors, MPs, officers and local communities
• Responding to media enquiries, identifying proactive PR opportunities and promoting positive stories
• Drafting clear, high-quality communications including press releases, briefings and stakeholder correspondence
• Advising senior colleagues on political, reputational and communications issues
• Monitoring political and policy developments; identifying risks and opportunities
• Anticipating and helping manage reputational risks
• Ensuring consistent messaging across external affairs, press and internal communications

What we need from you?
• Experience engaging with political, community or business stakeholders
• Background in public affairs, communications, PR or a political environment; this could include roles in local authorities, consultancies/agencies or working in an MP’s office
• Strong attention to detail and ability to manage multiple priorities
• Proven ability to deliver proactive communications or PR opportunities
• Confidence working with senior stakeholders and advising on approach
• Experience in a large or complex organisation would be advantageous

What’s in it for you?
Salary and benefits package
• Competitive Salary
• Company Car / Car Allowance
• Pension
• Life Assurance
• Bonus
• Health Care
• Flexible working available