Strategic Design and Transition Programme – Strategy Policy Lead (32167)
The Environment Agency (EA) is fully committed to having an inclusive workforce that reflects 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.
About the role
We are looking for an experienced Strategy and Policy Specialist to lead a new EA team, the Strategic Design and Transition Programme. This role will explore the implications of the Independent Water Commission’s report and its recommendations for the future shape and design of the Environment Agency, ensuring we continue to protect and enhance the environment while supporting sustainable growth.
Key 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 others are brought along 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 whilst 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, creating conditions for high performance and resilience in a high‑demand, ambiguous context.
Team
You will be a key member of a small, motivated team working directly with the Strategic Design and Transition Programme Director and Deputy Directors. The team is still forming, and you can expect a friendly welcome and an engaging, rewarding environment that supports your personal development.
Qualifications and experience
* Knowledge and understanding of environmental management and/or the water sector, including its management, regulation, and the EA’s role.
* Experience working in central government to develop policy, including collaboration with specialists such as economists and scientists.
* Ability to think and act strategically.
* Excellent communication and engagement skills, with the ability to translate complex or ambiguous information into simple, targeted advice on short notice.
* Experience of working across boundaries and influencing at all levels.
Additional information
Location: EA Office base. As a national role, working location is flexible. Some travel, including occasional overnight stays, may be required.
Contract length: Up to 12 months.
Applications are assessed “blind” using your answers to the questions asked. Interviews will be held via MS Teams within two weeks of the closing date.
For more information see the Job Profile. If you have queries contact Emma.Harding2@environment-agency.gov.uk.
We welcome flexible working patterns for all vacancies, including job share. Applicants with a disability are guaranteed an interview if their application meets the minimum criteria for the post.
The Environment Agency, as a Non‑Departmental Public Body, is committed to value for money and operates within Central Government frameworks for external recruitment. Direct engagement with the market is not permitted. For suppliers wishing to engage, see suppliers information.
Artificial intelligence can be a useful tool to support your application; however, all examples and statements must be truthful, factually accurate, and taken directly from your own experience. Plagiarism or AI‑generated content presented as your own may result in withdrawal of the application. Refer to the Civil Service Careers website for guidance on AI use.
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