Public Affairs and Policy Officer

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're looking for a Public Affairs and Policy Officer to play a key role in shaping and delivering Woodgreen's policy and advocacy work. You'll 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'll monitor political developments, draft compelling policy briefings, consultation responses and parliamentary materials, and engage directly with MPs, officials, and sector partners. You'll 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'll contribute to developing clear, evidence-based positions and provide expertise to strengthen Woodgreen's external voice and advocacy efforts.

To be successful in this role, you'll need:

• 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.

In return you can expect a starting salary of up to £37,000 per annum, depending on experience, which will be complemented by;

• 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 to include 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

This is a full time, permanent, hybrid position with the expectation that the successful applicant will work approximately 1 - 2 days a month from our Godmanchester site.

To apply for this position please submit a copy of your CV and a Covering Letter outlining why you feel you would be the best candidate for this role. We look forward to receiving your application

Please note that you will need to have existing Right to Work in the UK to apply for this opportunity as we are unable to provide visa sponsorship.

Woodgreen is committed to making our recruitment processes accessible to all and, as part of this, we are flexible in the ways we give and receive information. If you would like to apply using a different format, please contact the Recruitment Team and we will do our best to put any reasonable adjustments in place.

Early application is encouraged as this position may close sooner than the stated deadline if a suitable candidate is found.

Woodgreen is committed to safeguarding children and adults at risk and protecting anyone that comes into contact with us from harm. We expect all employees and volunteers to share this commitment.

NO AGENCIES PLEASE