The Organisation

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A highly regarded boutique political advisory firm with a strong track record of delivering strategic public affairs and communications counsel. For over a decade, they have supported corporates, investors and organisations with targeted, insight-led advocacy and engagement strategies.

With a reputation for trusted advice and high-quality delivery, the team combines deep political insight with an integrated approach to communications. They offer a flexible and autonomous working environment, strong training provision, and meaningful initiatives supporting diversity across the profession.

The Opportunity

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The successful candidate will work across key education verticals including further and higher education, apprenticeships, training providers, outsourced services, recruitment and children’s services.

The role offers exposure to a broad client base, from private providers and public institutions to investors and management teams, supporting them through regulatory change, policy development and transaction processes. It is an opportunity to take ownership of client relationships while shaping impactful public affairs strategies in a complex and evolving policy environment.

Main Responsibilities

• Lead day-to-day delivery across a portfolio of education and skills clients
• Develop and implement integrated public affairs and communications strategies
• Provide political and regulatory insight to inform client decision-making
• Draft high-quality briefings, stakeholder materials and strategic advice
• Build and maintain relationships with policymakers and key stakeholders
• Support clients through transactions, policy change and reputational challenges
• Contribute to new business development and growth within the education practice

Skills & Experience

• Experience in public affairs, political advisory or communications, ideally within education or skills policy
• Strong understanding of the UK political and regulatory landscape
• Demonstrable experience managing client accounts and delivering strategic counsel
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Confidence engaging with senior stakeholders and policymakers
• Ability to manage multiple workstreams in a fast-paced environment
• Collaborative mindset with the confidence to operate autonomously

To apply, please submit your CV via the link.

For more information on public affairs roles, contact Tasmin at Tasmin@ellwoodatfield.com.

Ellwood Atfield is the leading headhunter for corporate affairs, communications, policy, and advocacy. An employee-owned boutique search firm, we help you hire the most senior leaders and everyone who reports to them. We promise to connect talented people, smoothly and efficiently.

Our purpose is to create important and enduring relationships. We are an equal opportunities employer and promote diversity across our profession to ensure every individual has the opportunity to perform at their best. If you have not done so already, please let us know if you require any support so we can make the right adjustments and considerations should they be required.

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