ADS Group Ltd
Senior Defence Policy Adviser
Get notified of more jobs like this · No spam, ever
How your CV stacks up
Upload your CV to see how well it fits this job role
?%
The Role
ADS is the UK trade association for the aerospace, defence, security, and space sectors, representing and supporting more than 2,000 UK businesses, from major multinational organisations to small and medium-sized companies across the country. We work at the forefront of industry, creating business opportunities, supporting innovation and growth, and representing the interests of our members.
We are seeking an experienced and influential Senior Defence Policy Adviser to play a key role in representing and supporting the UK’s defence sector. You will lead the research, development, and communication of ADS’ defence policy priorities, ensuring that industry positions are supported by a strong and credible evidence base. You will proactively identify and shape significant policy issues, including the Defence Industrial Strategy and future defence reviews, while monitoring developments across UK, EU, and international defence policy.
Working closely with member companies, government representatives, and wider industry stakeholders, you will develop policy papers, consultation responses, and thought leadership materials. You will represent ADS and its members at senior-level meetings, including the Defence Industries Joint Council and other joint Industry and Ministry of Defence committees, while ensuring that relevant policy developments are communicated clearly and promptly to our membership.
Reasons to use Rodeo
Start with a chat, not a search bar
Grad scheme, placement, apprenticeship? Not sure what you want yet — that's fine. Your agent talks it through with you and turns "I have no idea" into a shortlist.
It searches the market for you
Every day your agent scans the market matching roles against what actually matters to you, not just keywords on a CV.
Only hits
No noise. No "maybe this fits." Just roles with a clear explanation of why they're right — and where to focus when applying.
You will collaborate across ADS teams and with external partners, supporting campaigns, events, committees, and industry forums. The role also includes coordinating meetings, recording and following up actions, managing the established industry secondee programme, and providing guidance and support to secondees. You will report directly to the Director of Policy and Public Affairs and deputise for them where appropriate.
The Candidate
The successful candidate will have a strong understanding of the UK defence industry and of UK, EU, and international defence policy. You will bring excellent analytical, research, and written communication skills, together with sound political judgement and the ability to develop creative, evidence-led approaches to complex policy matters.
You will be a confident and credible communicator who can build effective relationships with senior stakeholders across government and industry. Previous experience of cross-functional collaboration, advocacy, and stakeholder engagement will be important, as will the ability to respond effectively to the needs of members and colleagues.
Get help with your application
Your very own career expert that helps elevate your application to the next level.
Highly organised and comfortable working in a fast-paced environment, you will be able to manage competing priorities, meet tight deadlines, and maintain a consistently high level of accuracy and attention to detail. You will have advanced IT skills, including proficiency in Microsoft Office, and the ability to work independently while contributing positively as part of a wider team.
You will also have experience of line management or mentoring and be able to guide, support, and develop others. Confidence and professional presence in senior-level settings are essential, particularly when representing ADS or deputising for senior colleagues. Applicants must be eligible to obtain DBS and Security Check clearance.
The Contract
This is a permanent, full-time position working 37.5 hours per week, Monday to Friday.
The role offers hybrid working, with three days based in the London office and two days working from home.
“It took my CV and asked me questions relevant to understanding what kind of jobs to suggest for me. Suggestions were almost perfect. Jobs were exactly what I’ve been looking for.”
Jessica, London
Location