Strategic Design and Transition Programme - Strategy Policy Lead - 32167
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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 a new EA team, the Strategic Design and Transition Programme. Your focus will be on the recommendations in the Independent Water Commission’s report into the water sector and its regulation, and how they shape the future of the EA. This includes considering options for the EA’s future shape and design, and developing plans to ensure we continue 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.
You will:
* 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 one single water regulator.
* Drive engagement with colleagues across Government, within the EA and other regulators to ensure they are aligned 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 by 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 to thrive and be resilient in the face of high demand and ambiguity.
The 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 and rewarding environment to work in, where your personal development will be supported.
Experience/skills Required
* Knowledge and understanding of environmental management and/or the water sector, how it is managed and regulated, and the EA’s role in that.
* 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 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 this may occasionally include an overnight stay.
Please see Job Profile for more information. Any queries, contact 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.
Length of contract
Up to 12 months
Competences
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?
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?
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?
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?
We are fully committed to having a diverse and inclusive workforce to reflect the communities we serve. We welcome flexible working patterns for all our vacancies, including job share, so please include clearly any information regarding your preferred working arrangements on your application.
We also have a Guaranteed Interview Policy to support those with a disability who are seeking employment. We have committed 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. Where plagiarism has been identified (presenting the ideas and experiences of others, or generated by artificial intelligence, as your own) applications may be withdrawn and internal candidates may be subject to disciplinary action. Please review the appropriate and inappropriate use guidance on AI in the Civil Service Careers website.
Seniority level
Mid‑Senior level
Employment type
Full‑time
Job function
Design, Art/Creative, and Information Technology
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