Policy Lead - Industrial Strategy

Summary

Job Title:

Policy Lead - Industrial Strategy (Steel and Critical Minerals)

Contract:

Interim, full-time Start: ASAP Duration: 2 months (initial) Rate: £550-£625/day (Inside IR35) Working Pattern:
Full-time Hours/Leave: 7 hours per day

Location:

Leeds Working Environment:
Hybrid, 2 days per week (either 2 days in Leeds or 1 day in Leeds and 1 day in London) Closing Date:
Sunday 16 August The opportunity Lead high-profile policy work across the steel and critical minerals sectors, supporting government priorities, economic growth and investment activity. Work closely with Whitehall departments, senior stakeholders and cross-functional teams to shape policy development, monitor emerging issues and ensure alignment with ministerial priorities. The role sits at the intersection of government, industry and investment, making it ideal for candidates with strong central government policy experience.

Strong stakeholder management, sound policy judgement and the ability to navigate complex and high-profile issues will be essential. Duties and responsibilities Lead policy development across the steel and critical minerals sectors. Build and maintain strong relationships across central government, including Whitehall departments and key stakeholders. Monitor and analyse policy developments, advising on implications for investment activity and strategic priorities. Support the delivery of industrial strategy and economic growth objectives.

Work alongside investment and banking teams on policy due diligence relating to potential transactions. Engage with industry stakeholders to understand sector developments, opportunities and risks. Coordinate cross-government engagement to ensure alignment with ministerial priorities and wider government objectives. Produce high-quality policy papers, briefings and recommendations for senior leaders. Identify emerging risks, opportunities and policy trends relevant to priority sectors. Support wider policy, strategy and organisational initiatives as required.

Essential criteria Strong policy experience within central government Understanding of Whitehall decision-making processes and experience working across government departments. Experience working within a sector team, industrial strategy, economic policy, business policy or related environment. Ability to quickly develop expertise in complex policy areas and sector-specific issues. Experience operating across multiple teams and functions to deliver policy outcomes. Strong stakeholder engagement, negotiation and influencing skills.

Experience working with senior officials and navigating ministerial priorities. Strong written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to produce high-quality briefing materials. Experience supporting or advising on investment, transaction or economic growth-related activity. Ability to manage competing priorities and deliver at pace in a high-profile environment. Desirable experience

Experience with in departments such as DBT, DESNZ, Cabinet Office, HM Treasury or other central government organisations. Knowledge of steel, critical minerals, infrastructure, manufacturing or wider industrial sectors. Experience working within investment, economic development or industrial policy environments. Understanding of transaction-related policy work, investment appraisal or policy due diligence. Experience influencing policy development across multiple organisations and stakeholder groups. If you're interested in this role, click 'apply now' to forward an up-to-date copy of your CV.

Hays Specialist Recruitment Limited acts as an employment agency for permanent recruitment and employment business for the supply of temporary workers. By applying for this job you accept the T&C's, Privacy Policy and Disclaimers which can be found at