Strategic Design and Transition Programme – Strategy Policy Lead
The Environment Agency (EA) is fully committed to having an inclusive workforce to reflect the communities we serve. We don’t just talk about diversity; we seek it, embrace it, and live it, for the benefit of our staff, our communities, and our environment.
We’re looking for an experienced Strategy and Policy Specialist to take a lead role in the new EA team, the Strategic Design and Transition Programme. The role will assess the recommendations in the Independent Water Commission’s report into the water sector and its regulation, considering the EA’s future shape and design and developing a plan to ensure we continue to protect and enhance the environment and support sustainable growth.
This is a unique opportunity to be at the forefront of shaping the future of the EA.
Key Responsibilities
* Lead work to provide high quality, balanced and evidence‑based advice to support future thinking in light of the IWC report recommendations, particularly the recommendation to create one single water regulator.
* Lead engagement with colleagues across Government, within the EA and other regulators to ensure others are brought along as we develop our thinking.
* Support work to seek and make 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.
* Be an active member of the team, playing a role in creating conditions for a high‑performing and agile team to thrive and be resilient often in the face of high demand and ambiguity.
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 to work in, where your personal development will be supported.
Experience and Skills Required
* Knowledge and understanding of environmental management and/or the water sector, how it is managed and regulated, and the EA’s role in that.
* 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.
Location and Working Arrangements
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, and this may occasionally include an overnight stay.
Application and Contact
Please see the Job Profile for more information. For any queries, contact 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.
Contract Details
Length of contract: Up to 12 months.
Diversity and Inclusion
The Environment Agency is fully committed to having a diverse and inclusive workforce to reflect the communities we serve. We welcome flexible working patterns for all vacancies, including job share, so please include any information regarding your preferred working arrangements on your application. We also have a Guaranteed Interview Policy to support those with a disability who are seeking employment.
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. Applications may be withdrawn for plagiarism or for falsely claimed experiences.
#J-18808-Ljbffr