We currently have an exciting opportunity for an enthusiastic individual to join our growing Advocacy and Government Relations team as an Advocacy and Government Relations Officer to support and implement an effective programme of advocacy work across the UK, with a focus on Westminster. You will join us working 35 Hours per week, on a permanent basis and will be based remotely. In return you will receive a competitive salary of up to £33,884.72 per annum plus excellent benefits.
Although this role is remote, please note there will be an expectation of regular visits to Cats Protection's National Cat Centre, Chelwood Gate, on the edge of Ashdown Forest. This is a remote location and public transport is limited. There will also be travel to other areas of the country (covered under expenses) for events, team meetings and away days.
Cats Protection is the UK’s leading feline welfare charity with a nationwide network of adoption and homing centres, volunteer-run branches and charity shops. During 2021 we helped 137,000 cats and kittens. That's the equivalent of around 375 cats a day.
The Advocacy & Government Relations team leads for the charity on influencing decision makers and those whose policies, practices and decisions affect cat welfare across the UK. The team works to influence legislators, professional organisations and corporates. The team’s work has included publishing ‘The Time is Meow: A cat welfare action plan for Westminster’ following the 2019 election, launching a “Purrfect Landlords” campaign to encourage landlords to allow cats and calling for compulsory microchipping of cats across the UK.
Responsibilities of our Advocacy and Government Relations Officer:
As our Advocacy & Government Relations Officer you’ll be focusing on activity at Westminster with responsibility for drafting briefings and consultations, engaging with key political and external stakeholders, maintaining internal and external contact databases and monitoring and responding to external policy developments. You will assist with evaluation of the risks or benefits of planned legislation, regulatory or reputational changes which may impact on the welfare of and best interests of cats, and help to construct corresponding strategies and messaging.
What we’re looking for in our Advocacy and Government Relations Officer:
- Experience of advocacy, public affairs or influencing work, ideally in Westminster;
- Experience of policy work and research;
- Experience of dealing with high profile/ VIP individuals;
- Proven ability to multi-task and work independently on own initiative, accurately and under pressure;
- Experience of effective use of social media and the internet in an advocacy/campaign context;
- An organised individual with good written, oral and great people skills.
What we can offer you:
- Salary of up to £33,884.72 per annum plus excellent benefits;
- Generous annual leave entitlement starting at 25 days per year;
- Life assurance scheme as well as a range of health benefits, including private health care;
- Employee Assistance Programme;
- and much more.