The BBA is the leading trade association for the UK banking sector with 200 member banks headquartered in over 50 countries with operations in 180 jurisdictions worldwide. Eighty per cent of global systemically important banks are members of the BBA. As the representative of the world’s largest international banking cluster the BBA is the voice of UK banking.
We have the largest and most comprehensive policy resources for banks in the UK and represent our members domestically, in Europe and on the global stage. Our network also includes over 80 of the world’s leading financial and professional services organisations. Our members manage more than £7 trillion in UK banking assets, employ nearly half a million individuals nationally, contribute over £60 billion to the UK economy each year and lend over £150 billion to UK businesses.
The BBA supports and promotes policies and initiatives that balance both the interests of banks, and the wider public benefit. Our work is underpinned by three core priorities:
- Helping customers- both consumers and businesses
- Promoting growth, including supporting the UK as a global financial centre.
- Raising standards- both professional and ethical.
Main function of job
(Note: In addition to these functions are required to carry out other duties as may reasonably be required)
The BBA is the leading UK banking and financial services trade association and acts on behalf of its members on domestic and international issues.
The Government Affairs Adviser will work closely with the Director of UK Government Affairs on the development and implementation of the BBA’s government affairs strategy and the dissemination of information to member organisations and stakeholders on a wide range of issues.
Management/Supervisory responsibilities
Reports to: Director of UK Government Affairs
Direct Reports: None
Main duties
The role requires good analytical capability, an interest in financial services and first class communication skills. The post holder will be expected to develop and maintain a good working relationship with counterparties in, amongst other areas, member banks, Westminster, think tanks, other trade associations and the City of London.
Main Duties and Responsibilities
- To play a role in developing and implementing the BBA UK’s government affairs strategy. This will include monitoring closely the activities of key stakeholders – including Parliament, think-tanks, the Bank of England, and the FCA / PRA – that impact on banking and financial services and to keep BBA colleagues and member contacts fully informed of new developments and initiatives;
- Liaise with other UK-based bodies and institutions such as the CBI, City of London, The CityUK, embassies and think-tanks;
- Identify specific issues and legislative proposals that are of interest or concern to the BBA and its members;
- Prepare newsletters and other briefing papers to update members and stakeholders on a range of political and regulatory issues principally related to UK developments;
- Attend external events on behalf of the BBA;
- Organise events to support BBA activities;
- To support colleagues across the organisation in their work through providing background information, biographies, online research of documents and papers in relation to UK institutions, consumer groups, pressure groups and others;
- Occasional travel, including to Scotland and Brussels for meetings and other key events;
- To keep track of all BBA meetings/dealings with UK political institutions and to compile a regular report for BBA senior management and members;
- To support the Director of Government Affairs and the work of the BBA’s External Affairs team as required. The candidate should also be able to handle occasional media calls, including some out of hours work.
Education and Experience
Qualifications/education required
- A good standard of education. A relevant qualification is desirable but not essential;
- Computer literacy, particularly good knowledge of Microsoft Office Applications.
Experience required
- Candidates are likely to be working in a policy and/or political environment in Westminster, Whitehall, the financial services sector, or an equivalent body to the BBA.
Knowledge / skills required
- Ability to work and deliver under pressure to tight deadlines;
- Attention to detail;
- Knowledge of Parliament and UK politics, including the legislative process;
- Strong analytical, research and problem solving skills;
- Excellent communication skills – written and oral;
- Minute-taking skills are desirable.
Personal Attributes
- Analytical;
- Takes initiative;
- Team player;
- Political awareness;
- Comfortable at working independently and in a team.