Public Affairs ManagerLocation: Durrington (hybrid working)
Contract Type: Permanent
Hours: Full time (flexible working and job share considered)
Salary: Up to £50,000 per annum

About the roleOur Public Affairs and Stakeholder Engagement Team manages relationships with local and national government, parliament and civil society across Hampshire, the Isle of Wight, Sussex and Kent. Public affairs sits at the heart of Southern Water’s transformation, working closely with the CEO and Executive Leadership Team to build trust, shape policy conversations and support the delivery of our commitments.


As Public Affairs Manager, you will play a key role in shaping how Southern Water engages with the political and public landscape. Reporting to the Senior Public Affairs Manager, you will help position the organisation as a credible, responsive and collaborative partner, building strong relationships with MPs, councils, government officials and other influential stakeholders.


This is a hands-on, outward-facing role at the heart of our public affairs "engine room" – ideal for someone who enjoys delivery, pace and impact, and who wants to deepen their experience in a complex, high-profile environment.


What you will be responsible for*Taking ownership of key political and stakeholder relationships across our operating region, including MPs and local authorities
*Supporting the delivery of high-impact public affairs projects, campaigns and engagement activity
*Preparing high-quality briefings, correspondence and political insight for senior leaders, including the CEO and Executive Team
*Helping to shape policy positions that balance business priorities with public and stakeholder expectations
*Monitoring political developments and translating them into clear, actionable insight for the business
*Supporting senior leaders ahead of meetings, visits and events with tailored briefing and advice


What you’ll bring to the role

Essential
*Experience in public affairs, government relations, political engagement or stakeholder management
*Background gained in an in-house role, agency, the civil service or parliament, with experience beyond solely parliamentary work
*Strong political awareness and a good understanding of the UK political landscape
*Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to produce clear, persuasive briefings
*Confidence working with senior stakeholders and representing an organisation externally
*A proactive, organised and solutions-focused approach in a fast-paced environment
*Full UK driving licence and access to a reliable car


Desirable
*Experience working in a regulated or complex organisation
*Experience managing casework and coordinating stakeholder visits and engagement
*Ability to translate political and external developments into business insight