Senior Public Affairs Manager

The Open University in Scotland

£41,526 - £49,553

Edinburgh

Please quote reference: 17603

Change your career, change lives

The Open University is the UK’s largest university; a world leader in flexible part-time education combining a mission to widen access to higher education with research excellence, transforming lives through education.

The Role

The Senior Public Affairs Manager works to maintain and develop The Open University in Scotland’s relationships with politicians, civil servants and other external stakeholders in order to influence public policy and funding priorities.

Part of an integrated Marketing Communications team in Scotland, you will manage government relations, strategic communications and policy development that furthers the interests of the University and its students in Scotland. You will work closely with OU teams in the four nations to ensure a joined-up approach to the devolved governments across the UK.

Skills and experience

An excellent communicator, you will have relevant public affairs or parliamentary experience influencing government, politicians, media, opinion formers and stakeholders. You will be able to demonstrate a strong understanding of the political and policy landscape in Scotland and across the UK.

Experience of managing and contributing to integrated communications strategies is essential, including managing networks and delivering events. It is essential you have strong analytical skills, with the ability to interpret and present information effectively and to comment on its significance. You will also have well-honed digital skills, including managing and activating messages across multiple platforms.

Motivated and able to manage across a complex brief, you will be at ease providing strategic advice and managing high level relationships outside and within the University.

How to apply

For detailed information and how to apply go to www3.open.ac.uk/employment, call the Staffing Co-ordinator on 0131 226 3851 or email Scotland-Recruitment@open.ac.uk quoting the reference number 17603.

Closing date: 12 October 2020 at 5 p.m.

Interview date: 29 October 2020.

Please note: If you have not heard from us within 2 weeks of the application closing date, please assume that on this occasion you have not been selected for interview, however we thank you for your interest in The Open University and encourage you to apply for future positions.

We value diversity and we recognise that different people bring different perspectives, ideas, knowledge and culture, and that this difference brings great strength. Applications from candidates with protected characteristics are welcomed.

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