Strategic Design and Transition Programme – Strategy Policy Specialist – 32182
The Environment Agency (EA) is fully committed to 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.
We’re looking for an experienced Strategy and Policy Specialist to join the Strategic Design and Transition Programme, which examines the implications of the Independent Water Commission’s report for the future of the Environment Agency. Your role will involve shaping the EA’s future shape and design, developing a plan to protect and enhance the environment, and supporting sustainable growth.
Responsibilities
* Support work to provide high‑quality, balanced and evidence‑based advice underpinning future thinking in light of the IWC report recommendations, particularly the recommendation to create one single water regulator.
* Support engagement with colleagues across Government, within the EA, and with other regulators to ensure that others are brought along as we develop our thinking.
* Embrace constructive challenge and diverse thinking while keeping pace in an often fast‑moving working environment.
* Take a flexible approach with willingness to assist other projects and workstreams within the programme as the need arises.
* Be an active member of the Programme team, playing a role in creating the conditions for a high‑performing and agile team to thrive and be resilient often in the face of high demand and ambiguity.
Team
You will 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, where your personal development will be supported.
Experience & Skills Required
* Experience of working with 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 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, which may occasionally include an overnight stay.
Please see Job Profile for more information. Any queries, contact james.gingell@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
Competence 1: Shapes organisational approach & delivery
Describe a time when you have been part of a team developing policy options against a demanding timetable. How did you draw from expertise and stakeholder views to present credible choices?
Competence 2: Influences and Persuades Others
Describe a time when you engaged with, influenced and galvanised a wide range of stakeholders around a common goal. What approaches and techniques did you use?
Competence 3: Leading and communicating
Describe a time when you have led others to deliver in a situation where desired outcomes were ambiguous and/or there was uncertainty.
Competence 4: Technical Skills
Based on your understanding of the water sector and environmental regulation, what do you see as the key challenges and opportunities in implementing the Independent Water Commission's recommendation for a single integrated water regulator?
Legal & Policy Statements
Employment status note for Civil Service applicants
The Environment Agency is not a part of HM Civil Service, so you would not be a Crown Servant if appointed. Applicants in local government or other bodies listed in the Redundancy Payments (Continuity of Employment in Local Government etc.) (Modification) Order 1999 may be eligible for continuous service for redundancy payments calculation. If you are unsure of your status, contact your HR Team.
We are fully committed to a diverse and inclusive workforce. Flexible working patterns, including job share, are available. We have a Guaranteed Interview Policy for people with disabilities who meet the minimum criteria.
The Environment Agency, as a Non‑Departmental Public Body, is committed to value for money and uses Central Government frameworks for all external recruitment needs. We cannot engage directly through post, email, or phone calls. For framework supporters, 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.
Artificial intelligence can be useful for application support; all examples and statements must be truthful and taken from your own experience. Plagiarism may lead to withdrawal and internal disciplinary action. The EA is a non‑departmental public body sponsored by Defra, aligned with AI use guidance on the Civil Service Careers website. Review for more information.
Other Information
Seniority level: Mid‑Senior level
Employment type: Full‑time
Job function: Design, Art/Creative, and Information Technology
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