Centrica has an exciting opportunity for an experienced Head of Office to lead their EU outreach.
A newly created role, this challenging position with one of the leading integrated energy companies in Europe, offers the opportunity to play a critical role in shaping the public affairs agenda in Centrica. The Head of Brussels Office will be responsible for identifying opportunities, shaping legislation and minimising legislative and reputational risk to Centrica and its brands by developing and implementing external EU public affairs programmes.
Reporting to the Director of EU Public Affairs, the Head of Office will develop and implement public affairs strategies to ensure successful policy and legislative outcomes for Centrica, while ensuring that relevant business goals are delivered.
Specifically, the Head of Brussels Office will:
• Protect and enhance the reputation of the company and its leaders by establishing strong relationships with key EU policy makers and opinion formers
• Influence the Executive and Board on business strategy by interpreting the political reaction to business decisions as well as evaluating the political risk for the company arising from potential changes to policy
• Monitor and analyse developments in the following policy areas of interest to Centrica: Energy and climate change, financial services, future technology, state aid and competition matters, trade policy and wider international trade and economic policy.
Position responsibilities and deliverables:
• Develop strong relationships with key EU decision makers (notably the Council, Commission and Parliament) as well as other Brussels-based stakeholders (i.e. Permanent representations, industry associations, international organisations, NGOs and think tanks)
• Represent Centrica in relevant industry associations and external platforms
• Anticipate policy change and identify business challenges and opportunities
• Devise and implement advocacy plans (define desired outcomes, develop position papers)
• Develop and implement an EU executive programme for the CEO and members of the Executive
• Work with the UK digital team to develop social media strategy as a communication channel to key stakeholders.
Candidate experience and credentials
The successful candidate will have:
• Significant lobbying experience, particularly focused on Brussels, with a proven track record of developing and implementing comprehensive lobbying campaigns
• Demonstrable experience of complex issues management, preferably in a corporate or consultancy environment
• A sound grasp of the policymaking process in Brussels, with a strong record of leading and delivering effective advocacy directed at the EU institutions
• An established political network in Brussels and the ability to maintain and build strategic relationships
• Considerable experience operating in the external environment
• Exposure to the energy sector would be a distinct advantage
• Strong English language skills essential, knowledge of other EU languages would be an advantage
• Educated to degree level the ideal candidate will be a self-starter and have a strategic mindset, structured approach and strong interpersonal skills.