Head of Public Affairs

4 days ago

Swindon, United Kingdom FirstGroup Full time

Join GWR as a Head of Public Affairs

Are you a skilled strategist, and political expert ready to make a real impact? At GWR, we're looking for a driven professional to lead as Head of Public Affairs. You'll work closely with our Managing Director, Executive Team, and Public Affairs team to shape a comprehensive Stakeholder Engagement Strategy, enhance our reputation, and strengthen relationships with key stakeholders across Westminster, Welsh Government, Local Authorities, business groups, and voluntary organisations.

About the Role?
As Head of Public Affairs, you will play a pivotal role in aligning stakeholder needs with GWR's priorities and decision-making processes, working collaboratively with internal teams and industry partners. You'll take GWR's strong reputation and excellent stakeholder relations to the next level by driving campaigns, producing high-impact briefing materials, managing high-profile events, and developing innovative responses to emerging political challenges.

Key Responsibilities

Shape and deliver a Stakeholder Engagement Strategy that aligns with GWR's External Communications Strategy. Build and maintain robust relationships with MPs, Councillors, local government, business groups, campaign groups, and industry partners. Lead on planning and delivering impactful campaigns, including the creation of GWR Advisory Board presentations and supporting critical industry projects. Produce expert briefing papers, presentation packs, and corporate publications like the Annual Report to engage high-profile political audiences and stakeholders effectively. Anticipate emerging political or policy challenges, develop response strategies, and provide expert advice to senior leaders. Oversee both proactive and reactive stakeholder correspondence and public relations efforts. Manage and support key events, ensuring alignment with GWR's strategic objectives.

What You'll Need?

Skills

Exceptional communication skills, both written and verbal, with the ability to distill complex information for diverse audiences. Proven ability to plan, execute, and deliver strategic initiatives and campaigns. Strong project management and organizational skills, with meticulous attention to detail. Politically astute, with a broad network and understanding of UK politics and policy.

Experience:

Extensive experience in public affairs, stakeholder engagement, or related fields. Demonstrated success in managing relationships, delivering campaigns, and enhancing an organisation's reputation. A deep understanding of rail or transport industries is highly desirable.

Qualifications:

Degree-level qualification (or equivalent experience). Project management certifications (., PRINCE2 or PMP) are advantageous.

Perks & Benefits:

Health & Wellbeing: Health Cash Plan, health screenings, Employee Assistance Program, gym discounts. Lifestyle: Bike scheme, retail discounts, Costco membership. Financial: Pension, share-saving schemes, payroll giving. Travel: Free GWR travel pass, discounted tickets for friends and family, and discounts on Eurostar and European rail travel. Insurance: Dental Insurance, Private Medical Insurance (PMI)

Who are we?

GWR is the proud custodian of Brunel's railway - one of the most prestigious networks in the world. We have some of the newest trains in the country and exciting plans to extend our services. With more than one hundred million passenger journeys each year, we carry people to over 275 stations in the South West, from Cornwall and South Wales to London, passing through beautiful country and some of the UK's top tourist destinations. 

We are transforming the way people think about train travel, empowering our team of over 6,000 people from all different backgrounds to make it a great experience for our customers. Together, we will revalue rail as a very special way to travel – relaxing, fast, efficient, friendly and fun.

We all belong at GWR. This is our vision for providing an inclusive environment for all our colleagues, ensuring all candidates have an equal opportunity to access meaningful employment. 

We value our differences such as age, gender, LGBTQIA, ethnicity, religion and disability. We maintain zero tolerance towards any form of prejudice towards our colleagues, customers, and future talent.

We celebrate and encourage diversity of thought, progressive ways of working and seeing all our colleagues grow and thrive.

We review all roles and job descriptions to ensure they are accessible and, where possible, we support and provide flexible working options; we recommend that you refer to each vacancy description for further details.

If you require additional support to complete your application due to a disability or neurodivergent condition such as dyslexia, dyspraxia, or autism, please follow the links below. We encourage you to share any additional needs you may require so we can provide a fair and equal process for all who apply.

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