External Affairs and Strategy Advisor

External Affairs and Strategy Advisor Salary: £36,965-£39,053 per annum plus excellent benefits Location: Walsall, West Midlands (Hybrid - minimum 2 days Office based) Contract: Full Time, Permanent, 37 hours per week Closing Date: 30th September 2024 Interview Date: 8th October 2024 Do you have an analytical mind, excellent research skills, and an interest in current affairs and policy development? If you’re looking for a role where your work will have real impact, in an organisation where your contribution counts, this could be your perfect next move. As part of our Strategy and Transformation team you will play a key role in embedding Our 2030 Plan, which sets out our vision and ambitions for the next six years. You will be a key player in developing our influencing approach as part of our Social Justice strategy, using our voice to champion the need and value of social housing. This is a rewarding and varied role which will make an impact in and outside the organisation. You will play an integral part in ensuring that the business keeps up to date with the latest research, trends and innovations in the housing sector and beyond to inform our decision making. This is diverse role supporting our critical external affairs, stakeholder engagement and strategy work across a variety of projects and events. Collaborating with colleagues from across the business, external stakeholders and partners, you’ll need to be a self-starter with great relationship-building skills and good judgement. What you will be doing: * Horizon scanning of the external operating environment, identifying trends and innovations across the business world to inform decision making. * Undertake research and analysis to develop relevant and targeted insights for senior leaders in the business that support our strategy. * Support our influencing strategy as part of the Social Justice, transforming lives transformational programme. * Ensure our approach to stakeholder management is up to date, develop targeted communications and organise events and visits. We are looking for someone who has: * Excellent research skills and the ability to translate research into high-quality, clear and concise briefings for senior managers. * Strong communication and organisational skills, with keen attention to detail. * Hardworking, flexible, and a good team player. * Travel to external events and conferences as required. You will be a self-starter, able to work collaboratively with various stakeholders respectfully and professionally. You will have a proactive, confident and positive approach. You will also be self-motivated and accountable with the ability to work across teams. What’s in it for you? Working at whg means being part of a team that values flexibility, professional development, and a positive workplace culture. We offer: * A competitive salary * 27 days of annual leave (plus Christmas shut down) * Access to an annual leave purchase scheme * Participation in the defined benefit Local Government Pension Scheme or a choice of another great pension scheme * A health cash plan to enhance your wellbeing and claim back costs of prescriptions, eye care, dental and complementary therapies * A range of shopping and leisure discounts * Structured learning and development opportunities * Automatic membership of Colleague Voice * A friendly workplace environment and commitment to work-life-balance About us At whg, we are dedicated to providing affordable homes across the Midlands and creating sustainable communities. We believe everyone has the right to a safe and secure home, which is the foundation for a successful life. Our values— Trustworthy, Respectful, Accountable, Collaborative and Excellent — guide our work and our commitment to creating an inclusive workplace where everyone can thrive. We have been recognised as a top employer in the prestigious Sunday Times Best Places to Work 2024. The awards celebrate the top employers in the UK who are leading the way in employee pride, job satisfaction and wellbeing, as well as reward and recognition. We are proud to be a Disability Confident Employer, committed to providing opportunities and support for all applicants, including those with disabilities. Apply Now External Affairs and Strategy Advisor