Public Affairs Manager

Are you passionate about shaping policy and influencing decision-makers to improve the lives of dogs?

We are looking for a Public Affairs Manager to help drive forward our political engagement. In this pivotal role, you will contribute to the development of our Public Affairs strategy, lead on key areas of political engagement, and ensure our position is clearly represented to policymakers. You will also line manage a talented team, deputise for the Head of Public Affairs when required, and represent Dogs Trust in high level meetings and events and represent the charity in high level media interviews, helping to ensure Dogs Trust continues to be the leading voice for dogs.

Please note that this is a 13 month family cover fixed term contract.

About this role:

As a Public Affairs Manager you will:

• Support the Head of Public Affairs in shaping and delivering Dogs Trust’s political strategy, deputising on key issues and representing the organisation at senior internal and external meetings;
• Lead, motivate and develop a high-performing Public Affairs team, setting objectives, coaching staff, and fostering an inclusive, collaborative working culture;
• Oversee political engagement across Westminster and the devolved administrations on agreed areas of responsibility, including projects, campaigns, consultation responses, and stakeholder influence;
• Represent Dogs Trust externally with parliamentarians, government officials, sector groups, and the media, ensuring our positions are clearly communicated and understood;
• Contribute to effective project management and budget oversight within the Public Affairs team, ensuring work is delivered efficiently and to a high standard.

About you:

We’re looking for an experienced public affairs professional with a strong understanding of the UK political landscape and proven success in influencing policy. You will be an inspiring leader with a track record of managing high-performing teams, delivering complex projects, and driving forward effective campaigns. Exceptional communication, relationship-building, and organisational skills are essential, along with the ability to think strategically and represent Dogs Trust with credibility at the highest levels.

About the Team:

The Public Affairs team works across Westminster, Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland and the EU, to ensure the health and welfare of dogs is always taken into consideration by policy makers. In addition to our direct political engagement, we chair the Pet Advertising Advisory Group (PAAG) which aims to combat growing concerns regarding the irresponsible advertising
of pets for sale, rehoming, and exchange.

About Dogs Trust

We love dogs. That’s why we do whatever we can to make sure every four-legged friend gets the love they deserve. We’ll never put a healthy dog down, so our work is focused on helping dogs in need, supporting owners every step of the walk, and creating a better world for dogs in the future. It’s what we’ve been doing since 1891 and how we’ve grown to become the UK’s leading dog charity, helping 12,000 loyal friends find their forever homes every year.