Strategic Design and Transition Programme – Strategy Policy Lead – 32167
Job Description
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 Strategic Design and Transition Programme. The role will focus on the implications of the Independent Water Commission’s report and its recommendations for the future shape and design of the Environment Agency, and will develop a plan to ensure we continue to protect and enhance the environment and support sustainable growth. This is a unique opportunity to help shape the future 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, particularly the recommendation to create one single water regulator.
* Lead engagement with colleagues across Government, within the EA, and other regulators to ensure alignment 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 that thrives and remains resilient in the face of high demand and ambiguity.
Experience / Skills Required
* Knowledge and understanding of environmental management and/or the water sector, including its management, regulation, and the EA’s role.
* 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.
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, occasionally with overnight stay, will be required.
Please see the Job Profile for more information. For any queries, contact Emma Harding at 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. The contract is up to 12 months.
Competence 1 – Shapes organisational approach & delivery
Description: 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
Description: 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
Description: 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
Description: 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?
EEO Statement
The Environment Agency, as a Non‑Departmental Public Body, is committed to providing value for money and utilises Central Government frameworks and contracts for all external recruitment needs. The EA welcomes flexible working patterns for all vacancies and maintains a Guaranteed Interview Policy to support applicants with a disability.
Legal and Compliance
Artifical intelligence may support your application, but all examples and statements must be truthful and taken from your own experience. The Environment Agency adheres to the Civil Service Careers guidance on AI use. EOE statements, guaranteed interview policy, and employment frameworks have been included to meet legal obligations.
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