Leadership That Makes a Real Difference - Lead the National Conversation on Epilepsy Epilepsy affects more than 630,000 people in the UK, yet it remains misunderstood, underfunded, and too often overlooked. As our Head of External Affairs, you will change that. This is a rare opportunity to shape national debate, influence government policy, and elevate the voices of people living with epilepsy to the highest levels of power. You will lead our communications, advocacy, and information services with strategic vision and hands‑on energy - driving high‑impact campaigns, securing meaningful policy wins, and strengthening our reputation as the UK’s leading epilepsy charity. From building relationships with senior journalists, MPs, Ministers, and sector leaders, to guiding our spokespeople and shaping our public narrative, you will be at the forefront of transforming how the UK understands and responds to epilepsy. This is a pivotal leadership role for someone who thrives in fast‑paced environments, brings senior communications and political experience, and wants their work to deliver real, measurable change. You’ll help set the direction of a growing organisation, expand the reach of our external affairs function, and ensure that the lived experience of people with epilepsy drives everything we do. If you’re ready to make a national impact and champion a cause that urgently needs a stronger voice, we’d love to hear from you. About Epilepsy Society Epilepsy Society is the UK’s leading charity dedicated to transforming the lives of people affected by epilepsy through world‑class research, specialist medical care, and an unwavering commitment to ensuring every voice is heard. For more than a century, we have stood alongside those living with the condition - driving scientific progress, challenging stigma, and pushing for better services and support. Epilepsy is one of the most common serious neurological conditions yet it remains widely misunderstood, chronically underfunded, and too often absent from national debate. Many still face discrimination, delayed diagnoses, and inconsistent access to treatment, leaving countless families feeling isolated or overlooked. We are determined to change this. Our pioneering research is advancing the future of epilepsy treatment and understanding - from genetics to cutting‑edge diagnostics. Our specialist clinicians deliver life‑changing care for those with the most complex needs. Our Helpline and information services provide trusted guidance when it matters most. And our advocacy ensures that lived experience shapes policy, practice, and public conversation. But the scale of the challenge demands a stronger national voice - one capable of influencing government, shifting public attitudes, and securing the investment this community urgently deserves. That is why this role is so important. Joining Epilepsy Society means becoming part of a charity with ambition, momentum, and a clear mission: to create a UK where people with epilepsy are understood, supported, and empowered to live the lives they choose. You will join a passionate, driven team united by the belief that meaningful change is not only possible -it is essential. About You You are an accomplished communications and public affairs leader who thrives at the intersection of strategy, influence, and impact. You bring: Extensive senior‑level experience across communications, media, and public affairs, with a sophisticated understanding of parliamentary processes, political dynamics, and how to shape them. A track record of designing and delivering high‑impact, integrated campaigns that shift opinion, influence policy, and elevate organisational profile across multiple audiences. The credibility and confidence to operate at the highest levels, engaging effectively with MPs, Ministers, civil servants, journalists, and sector leaders - building trust, shaping conversations, and opening doors. A strategic mindset paired with hands‑on agility - you can set long‑term direction while also stepping in to craft a briefing, shape a message, or respond to a fast‑moving issue when needed. Proven leadership experience, with the ability to inspire, develop, and guide a growing team while expanding the ambition, capability, and influence of the external affairs function. Sound judgement, political awareness, and a calm, solutions‑focused approach, particularly when navigating sensitive issues or high‑pressure situations. A commitment to amplifying lived experience, ensuring that the voices of people affected by epilepsy inform and strengthen everything you deliver. For an informal conversation please contact: Oliver Startup: oliver.startup@gatenbysanderson.com Liz Dean: liz.dean@gatenbysanderson.com Key Dates Closing date: 13th February Preliminary Interviews: w/c 23rd February Final Panel Interviews: w/c 9th March