Policy Assistant

We are looking for a keen and self-motivated individual with a passion for nature to take on an
exciting development role and help us influence key decision makers, the public, and partners
following the general election.

The Policy Assistant will join the Conservation Strategy Directorate teams supporting nature’s
recovery across Berkshire, Buckinghamshire, and Oxfordshire. Our directorate’s programme spans
policy, planning, advocacy, and landscape recovery.

Job Purpose

This is a 15 month role to promote the policy and advocacy work of the Trust following the
General Election. The new Government will most likely take us up to the cusp of 2030 when the
Wildlife Trust’s vision for 30% of land and sea to be managed for nature needs delivering. We
need to influence new MPs now, so our vision becomes a reality. The role will also involve
supporting the Trust’s advocacy work with local government and the Trust’s planning work.

Reporting Line

The post holder reports to the Public Affairs and Planning Officer

Key Responsibilities

• Carrying out research to underpin the Trust’s campaigns
• Helping organise events to optimise the development and awareness of environmental policy
• Aiding the Public Affairs Manager to develop key relationships with political stakeholders
• Providing support for engagement with MPs and councillors
• Creating appropriate campaigning and presentation materials and literature and ensure they
  are used strategically to further BBOWT’s aims
• Working with the Planning, Policy and Advocacy team reviewing planning applications for
  impact on wildlife
• Ensuring contact data for political stakeholders is up to date
• Providing campaigning materials for advocacy volunteers
• Any other duties as directed by the line manager, Director or Chief Executive.

Person Specification

• Good written and verbal communication skills
• An interest in politics and influencing key decision makers
• Ability to work well in a team and be self-directed
• A basic knowledge of environmental policy of England
• Good organisation skills
• A high level of dedication and passion for what the role is striving to achieve
• Open to learning new skills
• Proficient in use of MS Office functions such as Word and Outlook with intermediate Excel
  skills
• Ability and willingness to demonstrate the BBOWT behaviours and values.

Measurements Of Success

BBOWT’s aims are promoted to newly elected MPs, major political
parties, councillors and the wider public.