There has never been a more exciting time to join the Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs (Defra). Decisions made at Defra affect the whole of the United Kingdom. Responsible for the environment, the countryside and the rural economy, Defra’s diverse teams deal with a vast range of issues that profoundly impact on people’s day-to-day life - from the food we eat and the air we breathe, to the water we drink. Defra’s remit spans everything from the food and farming sectors, to protecting the environment from all manner of natural threats and hazards.
We are currently undergoing an exciting and challenging period of change as the UK prepares to leave the EU. With around 80% of Defra’s policies being affected, the EU Exit Overview (EUXO) Team is working alongside the wider Defra group and the Department for Exiting the European Union to provide strategic insight into EU Exit preparations. As a member of the senior leadership team, you will play a key role in this by:
- bringing together evidence, analysis and strategic thinking to understand the impact of various scenarios on our policy plans;
- using this information to shape insight and recommendations for ministers and senior members of the Defra team;
- working with Analysis and Policy Excellence colleagues to develop a robust evidence-base on cross-cutting projects;
- strengthening analytical capabilities within the team, with a particular focus on scenario analysis;
- deputising for the Deputy Director and line-managing a small team.
This is a unique opportunity within a new and evolving team, enabling you to establish your analytical and leadership expertise within Defra. With the capacity to prioritise activities, you will be an inspirational leader with the ability to nurture productive partnerships. You will be able to see the bigger picture, work well under pressure, and enjoy working at pace. You will also have excellent communication skills and will lead by example, communicating with clarity and enthusiasm about the career-defining projects you will be undertaking.
Everyone in Defra is supported to develop their skills and capabilities. You will have access to learning and development from quality providers and support from mentors and coaches. We offer flexible working alongside a range of other policies and schemes to support your physical and emotional wellbeing. Our comprehensive benefits offer includes generous annual leave, a contributory pension, staff bonuses and recognition, volunteering days, childcare vouchers and other salary sacrifice options, and an employee discount scheme.
Two year fixed-term appointment (with the potential for extension or permanency).