Strategic Design and Transition Programme - Strategy Policy Lead - 32167
The Environment Agency (EA) is fully committed to having an inclusive workforce to reflect the communities we serve. We do not just talk about diversity; we seek it, embrace it, and live it for the benefit of our staff, communities, and environment.
We are looking for an experienced Strategy and Policy Specialist to lead a new EA team within the Strategic Design and Transition Programme. The role focuses on the implications of the Independent Water Commission's report and shaping the future of the Environment Agency, including future shape, design, and a plan to protect and enhance the environment while supporting sustainable growth.
Responsibilities
* Lead work to provide high quality, balanced, evidence-based advice to support future thinking regarding the IWC report recommendations, including the recommendation to create one single water regulator.
* Lead engagement with colleagues across Government, within the EA and other regulators, to ensure shared development of our thinking.
* Support work to seek and implement improvements to water regulation in advance of any future legislative change.
* Lead work to support Government Departments as they shape future policy by coordinating EA views and advice.
* Embrace constructive challenge and diverse thinking while keeping pace in a fast-moving environment.
* Take a flexible approach, assisting other projects and workstreams within the programme as needed.
* Actively contribute to a high-performing, agile team, fostering resilience amid high demand and ambiguity.
The team
You’ll be an essential part of a small, motivated team working directly with the Strategic Design and Transition Programme Director and Deputy Directors. The team is still forming, but you can expect a friendly welcome and an engaging and rewarding environment where your personal development will be supported.
Experience / Skills Required
* Knowledge and understanding of environmental management and/or the water sector, how it is managed and regulated, and the EA’s role.
* Experience of working in central government to develop policy, including working with specialists such as economists and scientists.
* Ability to think and act strategically.
* Excellent communication and engagement skills, including the ability to translate complex or ambiguous issues and information into simple, targeted advice often at short notice.
* Experience of working across boundaries and influencing at all levels.
Contact & Additional Information
You’ll have an EA Office base location; as a national role, the working location is flexible. We use smart tools to stay connected and reduce travel. Some travel may be required, occasionally including an overnight stay.
For more information, see Job Profile. Queries: Emma.Harding2@environment-agency.gov.uk.
Applications are “blind” assessed using your answers to the questions asked. Interviews will be held via MS Teams within two weeks of the closing date.
Length of contract: Up to 12 months.
Competence questions
Competence 1: Shapes organisational approach & delivery
Describe a time when you led strategic thinking or direction within a complex programme or organisation. How did you ensure alignment across different stakeholders and maintain momentum in a fast‑paced environment?
Competence 2: Embraces Change
Describe a situation where you had to embrace ambiguity and constructive challenge while working on a policy or strategy. How did you ensure diverse perspectives were considered and integrated into the final outcome?
Competence 3: Making effective decisions
Give an example of how you’ve used evidence-based analysis to inform policy development or strategic advice. How did you work with technical specialists (e.g., economists, scientists) to ensure your recommendations were robust and credible?
Competence 4: Influences and Persuades Others
Describe how you’ve navigated cross‑government or multi‑agency environments to influence policy or strategic outcomes. What approaches did you use to build relationships and ensure your organisation’s voice was heard?
Additional information for applicants
The Environment Agency is not part of HM Civil Service; therefore, you will not be a Crown servant if appointed. Applicants who currently work in local government or other bodies listed in the Redundancy Payments (Continuity of Employment in Local Government etc.) (Modification) Order 1999 may be eligible for continuous service. Contact your HR team if unsure.
We are fully committed to having a diverse and inclusive workforce. Flexible working patterns are welcomed for all vacancies, including job share. Please indicate preferred working arrangements in your application.
We have a Guaranteed Interview Policy to support those with a disability who are seeking employment. We guarantee an interview to any applicant with a disability whose application meets the minimum criteria for the post.
As a Non‑Departmental Public Body, the Environment Agency is committed to providing value for money and utilizes Central Government frameworks and contracts for all external recruitment needs. For more information on becoming a supplier, visit https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/become-a-crown-commercial-service-supplier/becoming-a-supplier-through-the-crown-commercial-service-what-you-need-to-know.
Artificial intelligence can be a useful tool to support your application. However, all examples and statements provided must be truthful and taken directly from your own experience. Where plagiarism has been identified, applications may be withdrawn and internal candidates may be subject to disciplinary action. The Environment Agency aligns with the candidate guidance on the use of artificial intelligence found on the Civil Service Careers website. Please review for more information on appropriate and inappropriate use.
Seniority level
* Mid‑Senior level
Employment type
* Full‑time
Job function
* Design, Art/Creative, and Information Technology
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