Are you a public affairs professional seeking to shape the future of the UK’s shipping industry in a leading trade association?

The opportunity

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The UK Chamber of Shipping is the voice of the UK’s shipping industry, advocating for its interests and promoting growth. The recently established External Affairs team leads issue-driven campaigns using public affairs and media strategies, focusing on engaging decision-makers, members, and stakeholders. The team manages the Chamber’s digital presence, including its website and other communication channels.

The role

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This role is responsible for monitoring and analysing the political landscape, identifying key issues, and mapping stakeholders relevant to the Chamber’s priorities. By building a strong understanding of the political environment, the postholder will lay the groundwork for developing and managing effective relationships with MPs and other decision-makers. Working closely with the Director of External Affairs, you will shape strategy, build key political relationships, and deliver impactful advocacy, insights, and member engagement.

Main responsibilities

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• Build relationships with MPs, committees, APPGs, and government officials producing high quality advocacy materials, including select committee responses and policy briefings, alongside organising parliamentary events,
• Deliver the Chamber’s Daily Briefing, monitor political developments, and provide strategic insights to colleagues and members.
• Support proactive and reactive media relations, and contribute to reports, briefings, and events, building relationships with trade media, think tanks and research institutions.
• Deliver targeted communications, facilitate engagement opportunities, and support policy-related events to enhance member retention and involvement.

Key skills and experience required

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• Knowledge of political and current affairs, ideally with a background working in trade associations or internationally focused sectors with a proven ability to translate complex policy into accessible communications.
• Strong understanding of UK government and parliamentary procedures.
• Experience managing member communications, delivering targeted briefings, facilitating engagement opportunities and supporting on various policy-related events.
• Experience influencing government and shaping policy in a public affairs role.
• Ability to develop political narratives based on detailed policy positions.
• Sound political judgement with apolitical and strategic insight.
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Interview process

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The first-stage interviews will take place on Friday 19^th September, with a written task to be completed during w/c 22^nd September. The successful candidates will come on-site for the final stage interview w/c 2^ndOctober.

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Application process

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This search is being led by Emily Thurley. To apply for this role, please click on the “Apply for this role” button and submit your CV (in word format) via the online application.

Deadline to apply: Tuesday 9^thSeptember 2025

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