Strategic Design and Transition Programme - Strategy Policy Specialist
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 be part of a central team – the Strategic Design and Transition Programme – examining what the Independent Water Commission’s report recommendations mean for the future of the EA. This includes considering options for the agency’s future shape and design, and developing a plan to protect and enhance the environment while supporting sustainable growth. This is a unique opportunity to be at the forefront of shaping the future of the EA.
Responsibilities
* Support 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.
* Support engagement with colleagues across Government, within the EA and with other regulators to ensure others are brought along as we develop our thinking.
* Embrace constructive challenge and diverse thinking while keeping pace in an often fast‑moving working environment.
* Take a flexible approach and have a willingness to assist other projects and workstreams within the programme as the need arises.
* Be an active member of the Programme team, playing a role in creating the 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, rewarding environment where your personal development will be supported.
Experience / Skills Required
* Experience of working with central government to develop policy, including collaborating 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.
Additional Information
You’ll have an EA Office base location; as a national role the working location is flexible. Some travel will be required, including occasional overnight stays.
Length of contract: Up to 12 months.
Competence Questions
Competence 1 – Shapes organisational approach & delivery
Describe a time when you were part of a team developing policy options against a demanding timetable. How did you draw on 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 – Leading and communicating
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?
Legal and EEO Statements
We are fully committed to having a diverse and inclusive workforce. We welcome flexible working patterns and have a guaranteed interview policy for candidates with disabilities. The EA is a Non‑Departmental Public Body and does not engage directly with the market via post, email or phone calls for recruitment. For more information, see the applicable Defra and Civil Service guidelines.
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