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. EA is a non‑departmental public body and is committed to providing value for money while utilising Central Government frameworks and contracts for external recruitment needs.
We’re looking for an experienced Strategy and Policy Specialist to be part of a central team – the Strategic Design and Transition Programme – looking at what the recommendations in the Independent Water Commission’s report into the water sector and its regulation mean for the future of the Environment Agency. This includes considering the options for 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 sit 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, in particular 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 whilst 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. Although the team is still forming, 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
* Experience of working with 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 issue and information into simple, targeted advice often at short notice.
* Experience of working across boundaries and influencing at all levels.
Contact and 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 will be required and may occasionally include an overnight stay.
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 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 – 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?
Additional Information
We also have a Guaranteed Interview Policy to support those with a disability who are seeking employment. We commit to guaranteeing an interview to anyone with a disability whose application meets the minimum criteria for the post.
Artificial intelligence can be a useful tool to support your application, however, all examples and statements provided must be truthful, factually accurate and taken directly from your own experience. Plagiarism or AI-generated content presented as your own may lead to withdrawal of application or disciplinary action. Please review the guidance on appropriate use of AI from the Civil Service Careers website for more information.
For further information, please see the Job Profile. Any queries, contact james.gingell@environment-agency.gov.uk.
Seniority level
* Mid‑Senior level
Employment type
* Full‑time
Job function
* Design, Art/Creative, and Information Technology
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