Summary
Salary: Competitive Salary & Benefits
Grade: 3A
Reporting Line: Head of Public Affairs & Policies
Contact Type: Fixed Term Contract - 9 Months
Location: London
Closing Date: 15th June 2026
What to expect
As an External Affairs Specialist you will join us on our journey and undertake a valuable role reporting to Head of Public Affairs & Policies
The External Affairs Specialist is a key member of the Corporate Affairs team, responsible for the delivery of functional strategies, always modelling the Post Office behaviours and demonstrating a Postmaster first mindset. Acting as an expert advisor, the External Affairs Specialist will apply advanced knowledge of the external political and stakeholder environment, to ensure they support the Post Office strategy as well as broad knowledge of Communications.
The External Affairs Specialist will lead on stakeholder engagement and policy advocacy across UK parliament, devolved assemblies and local councils across the function’s strategic priorities. They will drive a culture of inclusion, continuous improvement, and high performance across their teams, delivering high-quality engagement and stakeholder management and supporting decision-making across Corporate Affairs team.
What we can do for you
Now, more than ever, we understand that attracting the right talent is pivotal in driving the positive change needed throughout our organisation. Beyond a competitive salary, we offer a comprehensive benefits package that includes:
* 27.5 days annual leave that increases with tenure
* Up to 18% individual performance based – incentive scheme
* Car allowance
* Generous pension contribution
* Life assurance
* Income protection after 12 months service
* Full support from our employee assistance programme and access to our employee benefits platform
* Ever-evolving learning and development opportunities
Our commitment to embracing diversity extends beyond just words. We actively foster an inclusive workplace that values the unique perspectives and contributions from all colleagues. We hold the belief that Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion are not just vital but fundamental to our success and growth. Our priority lies in shaping a business that mirrors the diverse communities we reach, truly making Post Office 'Everybody's Business'. As an equal opportunity employer, we value and celebrate the differences among our people, ensuring that our practices reflect our dedication to inclusivity and equal representation for all.
What you’ll need to succeed
Experience and Qualifications
* Substantial experience in public affairs, policy advocacy or government relations, gained in-house, consultancy, Parliament, Government or a public policy environment.
* Experience of political lobbying and of engaging at a senior level, with an appreciation of what interests and motivates decision-makers.
* A strong interest in current affairs, with the ability to rapidly build knowledge across multiple policy domains.
* Experienced People Manager with proven experience collaborating with peers and senior managers, to contribute to the development of, and deliver, a functional strategy to achieve business objectives.
* Substantial experience in establishing successful, cross-functional, stakeholder relationships.
* Demonstrable experience of delivering projects to achieve key objectives.
* A good undergraduate degree or equivalent
* Experience of integrating public affairs within broader communications strategies
Skills and Capabilities
* Excellent influencing and communication skills with the ability to utilise a range of techniques to deliver messages effectively, make an impact, and drive a successful outcome.
* Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to speak with knowledge and confidence on nuanced policy topics in Westminster settings.
* Ability to develop and maintain strong relationships with senior stakeholders and leaders to build support for functional plans and activity.
* An enabler who can speak with knowledge and confidence in their subject matter, guiding their team to success.
* Acts as an expert advisor, applying advanced knowledge of their own specialism as well as broad knowledge of related areas.
* Strong commercial business acumen and ability to make data-driven business decisions.
* Demonstrates a strong commitment to upholding the values and principles of Post Office.
* A track record of actively promoting equality, diversity, and inclusion within all areas of responsibility and in particularly in the Corporate Affairs function.
* Ability to work to tight deadlines and manage competing priorities
About us
At Post Office Ltd, we’re proud to be at the heart of communities across the UK, upheld by the dedication and service of our postmasters. We offer essential services that people rely on every day, from parcels and banking to identity and government services. While we continue to evolve with digital innovation, our commitment to personal, face-to-face service remains core to who we are.
Our journey is one of reflection, growth, and meaningful change. We’re looking for people who think differently. Those with resilience, purpose, and a deep sense of responsibility to our postmasters, partners and the communities they serve.
If you're driven by the chance to make a real impact and help shape a future, built on progress and integrity, we’d love to hear from you. For more details visit
Application Guidance
Our commitment to embracing diversity extends beyond just words. While we’ve outlined key skills above, we recognise that great candidates come from a variety of backgrounds. We value diverse perspectives and are committed to building an inclusive workplace where everyone can thrive.
We’re thrilled by your interest in this opportunity and truly value every application we receive. Please note the advert may close early if we receive a high volume of applications. Unfortunately, we’re unable to provide individual feedback on all submissions.