We really value our organisational culture at Energy UK. We have high quality support and development opportunities for our employees, and we are proud to have been awarded a Platinum accreditation with Investors in People. We know that the wellbeing of employees is key to our success and this is reflected in our progressive policies around wellbeing, flexible working and mental health.

Job Purpose

Energy UK represents the majority of the sector, and our communications team is responsible for telling the story of how our system is delivering safe, reliable and increasingly sustainable energy today, while enabling the transition to a lower carbon future.

Our breadth of membership means we cover a huge range of topics, from energy debt to allocation rounds, and communications activities can include speeches, reports, campaigns, select committees, webinars and media briefings.

We are looking for an exceptional Deputy Director of External Affairs to shape and deliver Energy UK’s integrated political communications strategy to enhance Energy UK’s visibility, credibility and influence.

As a key member of the Energy UK management team, this role will be responsible for coordinating Energy UK’s external communications across a range of channels, working closely with policy and the wider communications team.

The role reports to the Chief Communications Officer and will work closely with the CEO, Director of Policy and Chief Press Officer, as well as manage a team of two. It requires a combination of advocacy, communications and public affairs skills, with an ability to manage cross functional project teams.

This is an exciting opportunity to play a pivotal role in building understanding, trust and confidence in our sector with stakeholders, policymakers and politicians.

Responsibilities

• Support Energy UK’s Chief Communications Officer in delivering Energy UK’s integrated communications strategy
• Take the lead on coordinating Energy UK’s publications and announcements working with the press, public affairs, digital and policy teams.
• Lead our strategic advisory forum and maintain robust relationships with colleagues across our membership.
• Develop excellent relationships with senior stakeholders including Government, political parties, industry bodies, business groups and think tanks.
• Act as a senior spokesperson for Energy UK at events and with media
• Model behaviours in line with our organisational values and people standards
• Line manage a team of two

Skills and Experience

• Deep understanding of public affairs and experience of or an eagerness to learn wider communications disciplines (press, digital etc)
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to absorb and distil complex information and influence, negotiate, and persuade across varied and senior audiences.
• Good balance of attention to detail and being able to work quickly and efficiently to deadlines.
• Able to adapt to shifting priorities, manage risks and the ability to operate effectively in a fast-paced environment.
• Proven ability to develop effective relationships with senior colleagues and stakeholders
• Preferred – In-depth knowledge of GB’s energy system

Benefits

• A competitive salary will be offered
• 25 days annual holiday plus statutory holidays with the benefit of buying an extra 5 days a year.
• Birthday Leave and extra day at Easter
• EUK is a member of Climate Perks, allowing employees to claim up to two days for staff who travel on holiday by train, coach or boat instead of flying.
• Annual season ticket loan
• An employer’s pension contribution of up to 8% if this is matched by the employee
• Aviva Health insurance with dental and optical cashback
• Leave for Charitable work
• Access to an employee assistance programme

Learning and Development Opportunities

• A hybrid working environment with the opportunity to work 2/3 days a week from home