WWF - Junior Public Affairs Coordinator

About the company

At WWF-UK, we're working to influence the decisions that shape the future of our planet. From protecting nature to tackling climate change, engaging with politicians and policymakers is an important part of how we make change happen.

Your tasks

In this role, you'll help our Public Affairs team build relationships with decision-makers, follow political developments and make the case for action that benefits people and nature.

You'll work alongside colleagues in Public Affairs and across WWF-UK, learning how Parliament and government work and how organisations like ours can influence decisions. You'll support political research, help prepare briefings and contribute to events, campaigns and other opportunities to engage with politicians and policymakers.

You'll also have the chance to be involved in important moments throughout the political calendar, from parliamentary activity and party conferences to major environmental campaigns.

It's an opportunity to develop practical experience in public affairs, political research and influencing, while contributing to WWF-UK's mission to bring our world back to life.

During your placement, you'll have the opportunity to

• Keep up with what's happening in politics. Follow developments in Parliament and government, research political and policy issues, and help the team identify opportunities to make a difference.
• Help make the case for change. Support the development of clear briefings, research summaries and other materials that help communicate WWF-UK's priorities to politicians and decision-makers.
• Explore how Parliament works. Learn about parliamentary debates, select committee inquiries and engagement with MPs, and support the team's work in these areas.
• Build relationships and connections. Help organise engagement with politicians and other key contacts, gaining experience of how professional relationships can support positive change.
• Get involved in major moments. Support WWF-UK's public affairs activity around events such as party conferences, Earth Hour and international climate and nature discussions, including COP.
• Help plan and deliver events. Support the practical organisation of meetings, events and engagement activities, including planning, logistics and budgets.
• Take ownership of a project. With support from colleagues, develop and deliver an agreed piece of work, building your confidence and experience as the placement progresses.
• Work with teams across WWF-UK. Connect with colleagues in policy, communications, conservation and other areas to understand how different teams work together to influence change.

Requirements

We're looking for someone who's curious about politics, interested in current affairs and motivated by the opportunity to help create positive change for people and nature.

You don't need previous experience of working in public affairs, Parliament, politics or the charity sector. What's important is your interest in learning, your willingness to get involved and the ideas and perspectives you can bring.

We'd love to hear from you if you

• Have an interest in politics, current affairs, environmental issues or how decisions are made.
• Enjoy researching topics, exploring information and understanding different viewpoints.
• Can communicate ideas clearly, whether through writing, conversations or presentations.
• Are curious about how Parliament and government work and how organisations can influence decisions.
• Enjoy working with others, listening to different perspectives and contributing to shared activities.
• Can organise your work, manage agreed tasks and ask for help when you need it.
• Are comfortable learning new things and adapting when priorities change.
• Are willing to take responsibility for tasks, use feedback and build your confidence over time.
• Value different perspectives and want to contribute to a welcoming, inclusive workplace.

You may have developed these skills through education, volunteering, community activities, personal projects, work experience or other experiences. We're interested in your potential and enthusiasm, not just your previous opportunities.

What we offer

Skills you'll build This placement is designed to give you meaningful experience and opportunities to develop your skills in public affairs, research and communication.

You'll have the chance to develop

• Political and parliamentary understanding: Learning how UK Parliament, government and political processes work, and how WWF-UK seeks to influence decisions.
• Research and analysis: Finding, understanding and bringing together information about political developments and policy issues.
• Communication and influencing: Developing clear briefings, presenting ideas and learning how to communicate with different audiences.
• Building professional relationships: Gaining confidence in working with colleagues, politicians and other external contacts.
• Planning and project management: Organising activities, supporting events and taking a piece of work from planning through to delivery.
• Working with others: Collaborating across teams, listening to different perspectives and contributing to shared goals.

You'll also build a portfolio of work that demonstrates the skills and experience you've gained during your placement.

Support along the way As part of Roots@WWF-UK, you'll have the opportunity to learn and grow alongside other early careers colleagues.

You'll receive support from your line manager and a dedicated buddy, alongside structured learning and development opportunities throughout your 12-month placement.

The programme is designed to help you build practical experience, develop your confidence and explore your future career opportunities.

Other

Practical details *Location: Living Planet Centre, Woking, Surrey Contract:** 12-month fixed-term placement

Travel and events: The role will involve some travel, particularly to London, to attend and support meetings and events. This may occasionally include working outside usual office hours, with arrangements agreed in advance.