Overview
Public Affairs Manager | Location: Durrington (hybrid working) | Contract Type: Permanent | Hours: Full time (flexible working and job share considered) | Salary: Up to £50,000 per annum
Responsibilities
* Taking ownership of key political and stakeholder relationships across our operating region, including MPs and local authorities
* Supporting the delivery of high‑impact public affairs projects, campaigns and engagement activity
* Preparing high‑quality briefings, correspondence and political insight for senior leaders, including the CEO and Executive Team
* Helping to shape policy positions that balance business priorities with public and stakeholder expectations
* Monitoring political developments and translating them into clear, actionable insight for the business
* Supporting senior leaders ahead of meetings, visits and events with tailored briefing and advice
Essential
* Experience in public affairs, government relations, political engagement or stakeholder management
* Background gained in an in‑house role, agency, the civil service or parliament, with experience beyond solely parliamentary work
* Strong political awareness and a good understanding of the UK political landscape
* Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to produce clear, persuasive briefings
* Confidence working with senior stakeholders and representing an organisation externally
* A proactive, organised and solutions‑focused approach in a fast‑paced environment
* Full UK driving licence and access to a reliable car
Desirable
* Experience working in a regulated or complex organisation
* Experience managing casework and coordinating stakeholder visits and engagement
* Ability to translate political and external developments into business insight
About Southern Water
Southern Water is at the forefront of transforming Britain’s water industry, investing significantly to enhance resilience, sustainability, and service excellence. With £7.8bn planned investment for 2025–30, this is an unparalleled opportunity to join a business committed to delivering a generational shift in the way water services are managed.
You will be joining at a time of significant change, working alongside a highly skilled leadership team with a clear vision for the future. We offer an environment where people can make a meaningful impact, influence strategic decisions, and help shape outcomes for customers, communities and the environment.
At Southern Water, we believe diverse perspectives drive innovation. If you’re passionate about making a positive impact and think you can bring value to our team, we’d love to hear from you – even if you don’t tick every box.
Our commitment to diversity
We welcome applicants from all backgrounds, identities and experiences. We do not discriminate based on race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, age, disability, religion or any other protected characteristic. If you need reasonable adjustments during the recruitment process, please let us know.
Additional Information
In line with Southern Water’s security requirements, successful candidates will be required to provide evidence of their identity, eligibility to work in the UK, criminal record check (DBS) and verification of their employment and/or education history for the past three years. Appointment to this role is subject to the successful completion of all pre‑employment checks, including security vetting. Please note that if a candidate does not meet the required security standards or fails to pass the vetting process, Southern Water reserves the right to withdraw the offer of employment. Some positions may also require higher levels of security vetting, which may involve providing additional documentation.
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