BCSC is a business organisation representing the interests of the retail property industry, promoting retail-led regeneration and development through government relations, communication and research. We also promote industry best practice, and provide opportunities for business and career development through awards, educational programmes and networking opportunities. Our membership is broad, and includes companies such as Hammerson, Land Securities and Westfield, along with John Lewis, Next and Marks & Spencer.
The role:
We have an exciting role for an experienced public policy professional to support the delivery of our external and government relations programme, with a particular focus on our sustainability and community relations programme.
This role joins an existing policy team within BCSC and will report to the Director of Policy and Public Affairs.
The main responsibilities include:
- Alert members to upcoming policies and/or political movements that might add risk to our members’ businesses;
- Provide policy interpretation, advice and guidance to members;
- Set out best practice and encourage take up;
- Equip members with the tools needed to embed best practice and innovative thinking in their businesses;
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Represent the industry to external stakeholders, including but not limited to:
- Government
- Civil servants
- Local government officers / councillors
- Business organisations, professional bodies and think tanks
- Media
- Work with the Director of Policy and Public Affairs to develop and deliver the public affairs strategy;
- Lead the BCSC Sustainability and Community Engagement Committee and sub-groups.
Interested? Read on….
You will be a highly motivated and analytical person with a strong interest in how government works, and an interest in major societal changes occurring in the UK and their impact on places. You will be confident, energetic and articulate, and be willing to present to senior industry figures and political decision makers.
Who should apply?
The ideal candidate will meet the following essential criteria:
- Educated to degree level or equivalent in a relevant discipline;
- Proven experience in a policy-focused role;
- Understanding and experience of government processes and policy making;
- Knowledge of sustainability and community engagement issues;
- High level of analytical skill;
- Demonstrable presentation and public speaking skills;
- Experience of communications campaigns, media and PR;
- Confidence to engage and network with senior stakeholders.
Knowledge of the retail property sector would be an advantage, as well as understanding the role of a membership body.
This role is ideally suited to someone looking to take the next step forward in their career, working within a professional thought leadership team that will enable you to thrive in a busy, business to business environment.
Contract terms:
- Permanent;
- Full Time;
- 37.5 hours per week;
- Monday to Friday with flexibility to work occasional evenings and weekends.