Strategic Design and Transition Programme - Strategy Policy Lead - 32167
The Environment Agency (EA) is committed to an inclusive workforce that reflects the communities we serve. We are looking for an experienced Strategy and Policy Specialist to lead work in the new Strategic Design and Transition Programme, focusing on the implications of the Independent Water Commission’s report and the future shape of the EA.
Responsibilities
* Lead work to provide high‑quality, balanced and evidence‑based advice to support future thinking in light of the IWC report recommendations, especially the recommendation to create a single water regulator.
* Lead engagement with colleagues across government, within the EA and other regulators to ensure our thinking is shared and informed.
* Support work to seek and implement improvements to water regulation ahead 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.
* Act as an active member of the team, creating conditions for a high‑performing and agile team to thrive, even under high demand and ambiguity.
Experience and Skills Required
* Knowledge and understanding of environmental management and/or the water sector, including its regulation and EA’s role.
* Experience working in central government developing policy, with specialists such as economists and scientists.
* Strategic thinking and decision‑making ability.
* Excellent communication and engagement skills, translating complex or ambiguous issues into clear, targeted advice at short notice.
* Experience working across boundaries and influencing at all levels.
Additional Information
You will be based at an EA Office; the role is national and the working location is flexible. Some travel and occasional overnight stays may be required. The contract is up to 12 months.
Competence Assessment 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?
Application Process
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.
Seniority level
* Mid‑Senior level
Employment type
* Full‑time
Job function
* Design, Art/Creative, and Information Technology
Equality, Diversity and Inclusion
We are fully committed to having a diverse and inclusive workforce. Flexible working patterns, including job share, are available for all vacancies. The EA has a guaranteed interview policy to support applicants with a disability whose application meets the minimum criteria.
Please contact Emma Harding (Emma.Harding2@environment-agency.gov.uk) with any queries. For more information about the EA’s commitments to value for money and framework contracts, 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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