Overview
Are you a policy or public affairs professional looking to make a real difference for companion animals? It's an exciting time to join Woodgreen, as we expand and strengthen our influence with policymakers, partners and the public through evidence-based campaigns. We are looking for a Policy and Public Affairs Officer to play a key role in shaping and delivering Woodgreen's policy and advocacy work. You will help ensure that our evidence, insights, and experiences influence government policy, legislation, and public debate, driving positive change for pets and their owners. In this role, you will monitor political developments, draft compelling policy briefings, consultation responses and parliamentary materials, and engage directly with MPs, officials, and sector partners. You will help build strong strategic relationships with decision-makers, represent Woodgreen at meetings and events, and support the development of campaigns that raise awareness of the key issues affecting companion animal welfare. Working closely with the Senior Campaigns and Policy Lead and the wider Policy and Impact team, you will contribute to developing clear, evidence-based positions and provide expertise to strengthen Woodgreen's external voice and advocacy efforts.
Responsibilities
* Monitor political developments and contribute to policy analysis.
* Draft policy briefings, consultation responses and parliamentary materials.
* Engage directly with MPs, officials, and sector partners.
* Build strong strategic relationships with decision-makers and represent Woodgreen at meetings and events.
* Support the development of campaigns that raise awareness of key issues affecting companion animal welfare.
* Collaborate with the Senior Campaigns and Policy Lead and the Policy and Impact team to develop clear, evidence-based positions.
Qualifications
* Strong experience in policy, public affairs, or parliamentary work, ideally within the charity, animal welfare, or public health sectors.
* Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to produce persuasive briefings and articulate complex issues clearly.
* A good understanding of the UK political system and how to influence it effectively, ideally with an existing network in this space.
* Proven ability to build and maintain relationships with a range of stakeholders, including politicians, NGOs, and partner organisations.
* A proactive approach, with the confidence to work independently and as part of a small, collaborative team.
* A passion for animal welfare and empathy for the challenges faced by pet owners.
Benefits
* Starting salary of up to £37,000 per annum, depending on experience.
* 36 days annual leave per year (inclusive of bank holidays) rising by 1 day each year to a maximum of 40 days after five years.
* Up to 8% employer pension contributions.
* Support towards healthcare costs (cashplan).
* Employee wellbeing package including free access to Headspace.
* Life assurance (4x salary).
* Enhanced parental leave (subject to qualifying period).
* Benefits hub – exclusive discounts on popular brands.
* 25% discount in our charity shops.
* Full-time, permanent, hybrid position with expectation of working approximately 1–2 days a month from our Godmanchester site.
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