Senior Public Affairs Manager

Summary

£57,200* up to £79,200* per annum | 35 days’ holiday (pro rata) | 10% in-store discount | Pension scheme

Everyone who works at Lidl brings something unique to the table - but we also have a whole lot in common. We’re curious, collaborative, and ready to make a tangible impact on where we work.

Just like you.

This is an exciting opportunity for you, an experienced and passionate Senior Public Affairs Manager to join our dynamic and fast-paced Corporate Affairs Department in our Head Office in Tolworth. 

Working alongside the Public Affairs Officer and reporting into the Public Affairs Team Manager, you will be responsible for supporting the development and driving the delivery of Lidl GB’s public affairs strategy. Having experience working across the devolved nations, you will lead Lidl GB’s policy and public affairs work in Scotland and Wales.

You will be responsible for building and maintaining relationships with key external stakeholders including the UK Government, devolved nations, trade bodies and think tanks. You will also be responsible for horizon scanning, issues management, policy development and taking ownership for key messages across strategic integrated campaigns and other priority areas. 

The ideal candidate is an enthusiastic, proactive and agile Senior Public Affairs Manager, who thrives in a fast-paced, quality focused retail environment. This role will work with both internal and external stakeholders. 

At Lidl, we offer a hybrid working model to give you the best of both worlds. Spend three days or more in our state-of-the-art office, where you can enjoy an on-site gym, restaurant, and more of the perks you deserve. And with up to two days at home, you’ll find the work/life balance you need to thrive.

What you'll do

• Support the development and drive implementation of Lidl GB’s Public Affairs strategy and engagement plan based on the company’s strategic priorities


• Represent Lidl GB in meetings with senior policymakers, trade bodies and external forums, both in person and virtually


• Lead Lidl GB’s political engagement in Scotland and Wales, including relevant policy areas


• Work with relevant stakeholders such as trade associations, think tanks, and academics to enhance Lidl’s reputation and sphere of influence across Government, Parliament and the devolved nations


• Support the development and delivery of integrated campaigns on issues of strategic importance including messaging, collateral development, stakeholder mapping and forward planning 


• Work across the business to develop and shape policy messages and positioning


• Build and maintain a network of external contacts across Government, Parliament and the devolved nations


• Attend conferences, meetings and other events proactively feeding intelligence back to the business


• Provide insight-led advice on political developments, debates and elections, and their impact on the business


• Coordinate and support Public Affairs work across the business to ensure a consistent, strategic approach and information sharing


• Support a community of best practice across the wider Corporate Affairs team through close collaboration with colleagues across the relevant business units

What you'll need

• Experience within public affairs sector or government departments with proven track record of delivering results


• Strong understanding of the UK political landscape, including the devolved nations.


• High levels of skill in networking, influencing and negotiation internally and externally 


• Ability to collaborate with internal stakeholders across multiple departments and levels 


• Understanding of the demands of a fast-growing company looking to strengthen its sustainable growth 


• Ability to contribute to key communication and policy decisions by interpreting internal and external trends and changes with short-, medium- and long-term horizon scanning 


• Experience in building and maintaining strong relationships internally and externally  


• Background working directly within government or parliament is desirable 


• Fluent command of the English Language is essential with excellent written and oral communication skills 


• Degree-level education


• A full UK driving license


• German language skills are desirable but not essential  

What you'll receive

• 35 days holiday (pro rata)


• 10% in-store discount


• Sabbatical


• Enhanced family leave


• Pension scheme


• Company Car or Car Allowance


• Plus, more of the perks you deserve

We value diversity, equity, and inclusion, welcoming applicants from all backgrounds. Join us to celebrate individuality and grow in a fair, respectful, and inclusive environment.

Disclaimer: due to the high volume of applications we receive, we reserve the right to close a vacancy earlier than the advertised date. This is to ensure our teams can manage application levels while maintaining a positive candidate experience. Once a vacancy has closed, we are unable to consider further applications, so please submit your application as soon as possible to avoid disappointment.

*Includes a 10% non-contractual London weighting

If you’re ready to get stuck in, want to get more out of your career and make a real difference, find your place at Lidl and apply now.