CONTEXT OF OPPORTUNITY / MAIN ACCOUNTABILITIES

• Lead the creation and execution of a comprehensive public affairs strategy for the marine and energy business, aligned with strategic priorities.
• Act as a trusted advisor to the Marine Leadership Team, offering timely counsel on reputational risks, stakeholder dynamics and the political landscape.
• Provide strategic connections and systems thinking to support Marine’s engagement across The Crown Estate.
• Manage and mentor the Marine external affairs and policy team, fostering a high-performing and inclusive culture.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with policymakers and stakeholders across national and local government.
• Shape and influence policy positions that align with The Crown Estate’s strategy and values.
• Design and deliver stakeholder engagement strategies and public affairs campaigns.
• Represent The Crown Estate in government and industry forums, ensuring clear and impactful communication of the marine strategy.
• Collaborate across teams to align business and technical initiatives with the enterprise-wide external affairs strategy.
• Lead responses to parliamentary inquiries and manage relationships with select committees and intergovernmental forums.

MOST IMPORTANT SKILLS-BASED REQUIREMENTS

• Significant experience in public affairs, ideally within government or the marine/energy sectors.
• Deep understanding of UK government operations and policy-making, including devolved administrations.
• Proven ability to build meaningful relationships with diverse stakeholders and influence at senior levels.
• Experience in developing complex policy and providing strategic advice to executive leadership and boards.
• Strong leadership skills, with a track record of managing teams in complex environments.
• Excellent communication skills, with the ability to translate complex information into compelling narratives.
• Strategic planning and vision-setting capabilities.
• Experience in stakeholder engagement, change management and performance tracking.
• Ability to manage budgets and ensure value for money in public affairs activity.
• A collaborative and inclusive leadership style that empowers teams and promotes accountability

The Crown Estate is seeking a strategic and purpose-led public affairs and policy professional to help address some of the UK’s most pressing social, economic and environmental challenges. This includes supporting the transition to a net zero and energy-secure future, investing in thriving communities, renewing urban centres, and stewarding the natural environment. This role will lead the development and delivery of the Marine Corporate Affairs strategy, providing expert public affairs advice to the Marine Leadership Team and shaping policy through close engagement with government and stakeholders.