Policy Specialist - 36103

Job Description

The Environment Agency are fully committed to having an inclusive workforce to reflect 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 be part of a central team – the Strategic Design and Transition Programme – looking at what the recommendations in the Independent Water Commission’s report into the water sector and its regulation mean for the future of the Environment Agency. This includes considering the options for the EA’s future shape and design and developing a plan to ensure we continue to protect and enhance the environment and support sustainable growth.

This is a unique opportunity to work at the forefront of shaping the future of the EA.

The Strategic Design and Transition Programme team is leading the Environment Agency’s response to the Independent Water Commission, shaping the future role and design of the EA and supporting the transition to a reformed water regulatory system. This involves working closely with Defra on the forthcoming Clean Water Bill, which will include establishing a new water regulator. It also includes a critical programme of work to encourage better collaboration between existing water regulators.

You will help shape the Environment Agency’s response to the Water White Paper and the creation of a new integrated water regulator. Working across policy, strategy, communications and engagement, you will support the development of EA policy positions and help translate what changes could mean for the future design and role of the organisation.

You will work with colleagues across government, the EA and other regulators to build relationships, improve coordination and support better regulatory outcomes. You will help bring people together, create shared understanding, and ensure approaches remain coherent as thinking develops. The role requires someone comfortable working at pace, embracing constructive challenge and diverse perspectives, and contributing positively to a resilient, agile and high-performing team.

You’ll have an EA Office base location, as a national role the working location is flexible/hybrid. We use smart tools to stay connected and reduce travel, but some travel and overnights will be required.

Up to 12 Months

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?

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?

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

If you are applying from the Civil Service please note that the Environment Agency is not a part of HM Civil Service and you would not be a Crown Servant in the event of being appointed. Therefore, you will not be eligible for continuous service. For applicants who currently work in local government or other bodies listed in the Redundancy Payments (Continuity of Employment in Local Government etc) (Modification) Order 1999, you may be eligible for continuous service for the purpose of calculating any future redundancy payment.

If you are unsure of your status then you should contact your own HR Team.

We are fully committed to having a diverse and inclusive workforce to reflect the communities we serve. We welcome flexible working patterns for all our vacancies, including job share, so please include clearly any information regarding your preferred working arrangements on your application.

We also have a Guaranteed Interview Policy to support those with a disability who are seeking employment. We have committed to guaranteeing an interview to anyone with a disability whose application meets…