Public Affairs Manager - Northern Ireland

The Woodland Trust is the UK’s leading woodland conservation charity, dedicated to the protection, restoration, and creation of woods and trees. Our mission is to engage and inspire people to support the tackling of nature and climate crises. We are currently seeking a Public Affairs Manager to lead our efforts in Northern Ireland.

The role: As the Public Affairs Manager, you will be responsible for managing the Woodland Northern Ireland’s (WTNI) relationship with the NI Executive, Government, and other key political audiences across NI, ROI, and the UK. Your main tasks will include advocating for legislative changes, managing local development plan consultations, and maintaining relationships with local councils and the eNGO sector. You will also define our Northern Ireland Public Affairs and campaigning goals, develop a prioritised programme of policy and advocacy work, and collaborate with colleagues to maximise our impact.

Job requirements: Candidates should have a strong background in building relationships and a proven record in delivery in partnership with local councils. Experience in influencing legislation and working directly with government departments is essential. You should also have a track record in public affairs and policy delivery, particularly within the environmental or voluntary sector. A working knowledge of current affairs, environmental policy, conservation, and land management issues is necessary. Effective communication skills, both written and oral, and the ability to manage relationships are crucial.

Benefits: Joining our team means you’ll be a big part of tackling environmental and climate issues. We offer support and training opportunities, an enhanced employer pension, life assurance, flexible and hybrid working options, generous annual leave, a buy and sell holiday scheme, enhanced parental pay, and an employee assistance programme.

About Us: We aim to see a world where trees and woods thrive for people and nature. We are committed to diversity and inclusion, ensuring that all people, regardless of background, identity, ability, or circumstance, benefit from trees. We encourage applications from people of colour and disabled individuals, who are currently under-represented in the sector.

Application Advice: We maintain fairness in our hiring process by keeping candidates’ personal details hidden from hiring managers during initial stages. Ensure your Personal Statement reflects your skills and passion for the role. We welcome the use of AI tools in applications, especially to aid accessibility. Interviews will be conducted via Microsoft Teams.