Strategy and Engagement Officer
Location: Belfast, Cardiff, Edinburgh
Job Summary
We are the Ministry of Housing, Communities & Local Government (MHCLG). We work on initiatives that make a real difference to people’s lives with a focus on Homes, Places, and Growth. To deliver on these priorities, we work with partners across the UK on policy interventions, programme delivery, and legislation. We also work closely with other parts of government and the Devolved Governments in Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland on areas of joint interest.
The Nations Strategy and Engagement Team (NSET) provides resource across MHCLG to ensure the department can deliver on its commitments across the UK. With a presence in the UK’s four capital cities, we leverage local intelligence, devolution expertise, and strong relationships with stakeholders to support the delivery of MHCLG's vision.
We are seeking a proactive, confident communicator to support our division in achieving our ambitions regarding devolution and intergovernmental working. Based in Cardiff, Edinburgh, or Belfast, you will be instrumental in driving the success of key projects and coordinating engagement with internal and external stakeholders.
Duties and Responsibilities
- Supporting the planning, execution, and monitoring of work areas across the team, ensuring alignment with stakeholder requirements and departmental priorities.
- Monitoring and reporting on MHCLG’s activities in Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland to support the development of UK-wide policies, strategies, and legislation.
- Supporting engagement with a wide range of internal and external stakeholders, including local authorities, devolved governments, and other government departments.
- Identifying and tracking emerging trends, risks, and opportunities through regular horizon scanning and analysis.
- Ensuring the smooth functionality of the team, keeping products and tools up to date, and utilizing AI and other tools to maximize efficiency.
- Contributing to a positive, inclusive, and high-performing team environment by sharing knowledge and driving continuous improvement.
Essential Criteria
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to tailor your approach to different audiences and sensitivities.
- Effective stakeholder management skills and the ability to build and maintain excellent relationships.
- Strong organisational skills, with the ability to work flexibly and proactively to manage multiple competing priorities.
- Ability to work independently, within and across teams in a matrix management system.
- Proficient IT skills, including Microsoft Office packages and SharePoint, with an awareness of AI tools like Copilot.
Compensation and Benefits
- Salary: £36,169
- Pension: MHCLG contributes £10,478 towards the Civil Service Defined Benefit Pension scheme.
- Additional Benefits: Tailored career pathways, flexible working, MyLifestyle Staff Benefits Scheme, Childcare Vouchers, and Cycle to Work Schemes.
Application and Selection Process
The application process is split into two stages testing Success Profiles (Behaviours and Strengths).
Stage 1: Sift
- Behaviours: Working Together (Lead Behaviour), Communicating and Influencing, Delivering at Pace.
- There is a 250-word limit per question.
- If a large number of applications are received, an initial sift may be conducted using the lead behaviour.
Stage 2: Interview
- Behaviours: Communicating and Influencing, Working Together, Delivering at Pace.
- Strengths: Strength-based questions requiring natural responses.
- Interviews are currently held remotely via video call.
Sift Date: Envisaged to start 03/07/2026.
Important Information
- Artificial Intelligence: AI may be used to support your application, but all examples must be truthful and based on your own experience. Plagiarism or misrepresentation may result in disqualification.
- Security Clearance: National Office: BPSS. Successful candidates must undergo a criminal record check.
- Disability Confident Scheme: We are a Disability Confident employer and offer a fair and proportionate interview process for candidates who meet the minimum selection criteria.
- Technical Support: For issues with the application portal, contact hello@beapplied.com.
Contact Information
- Job Contact: Louise Davies (louise.davies5@communities.gov.uk)
- Recruitment Team: recruitment@communities.gov.uk