Strategic Design and Transition Programme – Strategy & Policy Specialist (ID 32182)
The Environment Agency (EA) is fully committed to having an inclusive workforce that reflects the communities we serve. We are looking for an experienced Strategy and Policy Specialist to be part of our central Strategic Design and Transition Programme. Your role will focus on evaluating the recommendations of the Independent Water Commission (IWC) report and shaping the future of the EA’s structure and regulatory approach.
Responsibilities
* Provide high‑quality, balanced, evidence‑based advice to support future thinking around the IWC report recommendations, particularly the proposal to create a single water regulator.
* Engage with colleagues across Government, within the EA and other regulators to ensure collaborative development of our thinking.
* Embrace constructive challenge and diverse thinking while keeping pace in a fast‑moving environment.
* Take a flexible approach and assist other projects and workstreams within the programme as required.
* Act as an active member of the Programme team, contributing to a high‑performing, agile, and resilient team environment.
Team
You will 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, an engaging environment, and robust support for your personal development.
Experience and Skills Required
* Experience working with central government to develop policy, including collaboration with economists and scientists.
* Strategic thinking and the ability to act at the strategic level.
* Excellent communication and engagement skills: translate complex or ambiguous issues into simple, targeted advice often at short notice.
* Experience working across boundaries and influencing at all levels.
Additional Information
Location: EA Office base; national role with flexible working location. Travel: Some travel required, including occasional overnight stays. Contact: james.gingell@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 Assessment
Competence 1 – Shapes organisational approach & delivery
Describe a time when you have been part of a team developing policy options against a demanding timetable. How did you draw from expertise and stakeholder views to present credible choices?
Competence 2 – Influences and Persuades Others
Describe a time when you engaged with, influenced and galvanised a wide range of stakeholders around a common goal. What approaches and techniques did you use?
Competence 3 – Leads and communicates
Describe a time when you have led others to deliver in a situation where desired outcomes were ambiguous and/or there was uncertainty.
Competence 4 – Technical Skills
Based on your understanding of the water sector and environmental regulation, what do you see as the key challenges and opportunities in implementing the Independent Water Commission’s recommendation for a single integrated water regulator?
Eligibility and Equality Statements
We are fully committed to having a diverse and inclusive workforce. Flexible working patterns are available, including job share. We provide a guaranteed interview policy for candidates with disabilities meeting the minimum criteria. Please include any information about your preferred working arrangements in your application. The EA is not part of HM Civil Service; therefore, appointment will not confer Crown Servant status or continuous service.
Artificial intelligence may support your application, but all statements must be truthful and derived from your own experience. Plagiarism or false claims may lead to application withdrawal or disciplinary action.
Regulatory Framework
The EA, as a Non‑Departmental Public Body, delivers value for money using Central Government frameworks and contracts for all external recruiting. For support suppliers, 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.
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