About the Role
The Ministry of Housing, Communities & Local Government (MHCLG) is at the heart of the UK Government’s mission to deliver homes, support places, and drive economic growth. As a Strategy and Engagement Officer within our Nations Strategy and Engagement Team (NSET), you will play a pivotal role in ensuring our departmental priorities are successfully delivered across the UK. Based in one of our regional hubs—Belfast, Cardiff, or Edinburgh—you will act as a vital link between the central department and devolved administrations, leveraging local intelligence and stakeholder relationships to tailor policy interventions for maximum local impact.
This is a high-impact opportunity for a proactive and collaborative professional to support our division in navigating the complexities of devolution and intergovernmental working. You will work in a fast-paced, multi-disciplinary environment where your ability to communicate effectively and coordinate complex workstreams will directly contribute to the success of high-profile projects. We pride ourselves on an inclusive culture that empowers team members to develop their expertise in policy and strategy while building a meaningful career within the Civil Service.
Key ResponsibilitiesYour primary focus will be supporting the planning, execution, and monitoring of departmental activities to ensure alignment with both UK-wide priorities and the specific needs of the devolved nations. Key duties include:
- Monitoring and reporting on MHCLG activities in Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland to inform the development of robust, UK-wide policies and legislation.
- Supporting strategic engagement with a diverse range of internal and external stakeholders, including devolved governments, local authorities, and other government departments.
- Conducting regular horizon scanning to identify emerging trends, risks, and opportunities, ensuring the team remains responsive to the evolving political and social landscape.
- Managing team workflows and maintaining digital products and tools, utilizing AI-driven solutions like Microsoft Copilot to maximize reporting efficiency.
- Contributing to a high-performing and inclusive team culture by sharing knowledge, supporting colleagues, and driving continuous process improvements.
- Tracking and managing multiple competing priorities within a matrix management structure to ensure optimal resource allocation and project success.
The successful candidate will demonstrate a blend of organizational excellence and communication prowess. We are looking for individuals who meet the following essential criteria:
- Exceptional Communication: Proven ability to deliver clear written and verbal information, tailoring your style to suit diverse audiences and sensitive political contexts.
- Stakeholder Management: Experience in building and maintaining productive relationships with a variety of partners to achieve common goals.
- Organizational Mastery: A proactive approach to managing multiple workstreams simultaneously with a high degree of flexibility.
- Independence and Collaboration: Ability to work autonomously while contributing effectively to a wider team in a complex, fast-moving environment.
- Digital Proficiency: Advanced skills in Microsoft Office 365, SharePoint, and a general awareness of how AI tools can enhance productivity.
- Commitment to Values: A dedication to the Civil Service Code and the ability to demonstrate key behaviors including Working Together, Communicating and Influencing, and Delivering at Pace.
We offer a competitive package and a supportive environment designed to help you balance your professional and personal life. Benefits include:
- A competitive salary of £36,169 with an additional employer pension contribution of £10,478 through the Civil Service Defined Benefit Pension scheme.
- Generous annual leave and flexible working arrangements to support a healthy work-life balance.
- Access to the MyLifestyle Staff Benefits Scheme, Childcare Vouchers, and Cycle to Work programs.
- A structured career pathway with extensive learning and development opportunities tailored to your professional goals.
- Remote-friendly interview processes and modern office facilities in Cardiff, Edinburgh, or Belfast.
- An inclusive workplace that champions diversity through the Disability Confident Scheme and dedicated staff networks.