Policy Specialist - 36747

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 Policy Specialist to be part of the EA’s water reform programme team. This is a high profile, fast-paced team sitting at the centre of the EA working on water sector and system reform. This includes helping to shape future operational policy as well as considering what reforms mean for the future of the Environment Agency. This is a unique opportunity to work on an issue of high importance to government and the public in a role with direct access to senior officials within the EA and wider government.

The team

The water reform programme team is leading the Environment Agency’s work to help implement the government’s ambition to reorganize the water sector to deliver safe supplies, protect the environment, and balance customer and investor outcomes. Key work areas for the team are to work closely with Defra on the forthcoming Water Bill (which will include establishing a new water regulator) and improved collaborative working with Ofwat, the Drinking Water Inspectorate and Natural England.

Experience/skills Required

You will help shape the Environment Agency’s response to government ambitions for water system reform, including the creation of a new 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.

Contact and additional information

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.

Please read the Candidate/Additional Information Pack for information. Any queries, contact James.Gingell@environment-agency.gov.uk and Lucy.McMahon@environment-agency.gov.uk

Applications are “blind” assessed using your answers to the competency questions.

Length of contract

Up to 12 Months

Competence 1

Shapes organisational approach & delivery

Description

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?

Competence 2

Influences and Persuades Others

Description

• 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?
• Competence 3
• Leading and communicating

Description

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 the minimum criteria for the post.

The Environment Agency, as a Non-Departmental Public Body, is committed to providing value for money and utilises Central Government frameworks and contracts for all external recruitment needs. For this reason, we are unable to engage with the market directly through post, email or phone calls . Should you wish to become a support supplier on one of these frameworks or contracts please visit https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/become-a-crown-commercial-service-supplier/becoming-a-supplier-through-the-crown-commercial-service-what-you-need-to-know for more information.

Artificial intelligence can be a useful tool to support your application, however, all examples and statements provided must be truthful, factually accurate and taken directly from your own experience. Where plagiarism has been identified (presenting the ideas and experiences of others, or generated by artificial intelligence, as your own) applications may be withdrawn and internal candidates may be subject to disciplinary action. Although the Environment Agency is a non-departmental public body sponsored by Defra, we subscribe to and align with the candidate guidance on the use of artificial intelligence found on the Civil Service Careers website. Please review for more information on appropriate and inappropriate use.