The Catapult Network is made up of nine leading technology and innovation centres, supported by Innovate UK. We accelerate innovation and drive business growth in areas including cell and gene therapy, connected places, compound semiconductors, digital, energy systems, high value manufacturing, medicines discovery, offshore renewable energy and satellite applications. 

As Policy & Public Affairs Officer, you will join a small team working with the nine Catapults to expand awareness of the collective impact they are making amongst external policy and political stakeholders. Building on the combined power of nine Catapults, you will help develop and deliver a strong and wide-reaching stakeholder engagement strategy to promote the Network’s collective message as a key delivery partner in the innovation landscape, informing national policy and strategy. 

This role can be based remotely or from one of the Catapult centre locations. The host Catapult, and employer, will be Digital Catapult, which has offices based in London and Belfast. There will be a requirement for the incumbent to travel frequently to London with ad-hoc travel to Catapult offices nationwide. 

WHAT YOU’LL DO (Duties) 

• Contribute to the development and delivery of dynamic public affairs strategies and plans, to influence and inform external policies which affect Catapults’ collective interests. 
• Facilitate proactive stakeholder engagement to enhance the awareness, influence and impact of the Catapult Network in Westminster/Whitehall, devolved Governments and regions. 
• Monitor relevant policy announcements and developments, develop messaging and prepare responses to policy enquiries and consultations. 
• Provide assistance with cross-Catapult meetings, events and projects. 
• Act as an effective signpost to Catapult and external colleagues, connecting people and disseminating information across the Network. 

Requirements

• An adaptable, motivated and driven individual who can generate their own ideas and contribute effectively as part of a small team. 
• Ability to work independently / autonomously. 
• Experience working with policy and/or political stakeholders, with knowledge of relevant government and parliamentary processes. 
• A confident communicator, both verbally and in writing. 
• Excellent interpersonal skills with the ability to build relationships and influence others. 
• Experience managing projects, committees, events or other activities that demonstrate your organisational ability. 
• A passion for research & development and innovation. 

Deadline for Applications: 12th May 2024 

Commitment to Equality, Diversity and Inclusion    

We recognise and value the advantages and opportunities that come with having people from diverse backgrounds working with us and it is our ambition to build an organisation which is representative and reflective of UK society. We are part of the Catapult network and we are actively committed to our Inclusivity in Innovation Charter, about which you can find out more here.  

We welcome applications from neurodivergent candidates, candidates from minority and underrepresented groups and from candidates with more or less experience, provided the requisite skills can be demonstrated. 

As members of the Disability Confident Scheme, we guarantee to interview all disabled applicants who meet the minimum criteria for the vacancy. Please do speak with us about adjustments that could support you through our interview process. 

Digital Catapult is an equal opportunities employer. 

Benefits

• We are in the UK’s Top 100 Best Workplaces and placed in the UK’s Best Workplaces in Tech and Large Organisations.
• Digital Catapult is a Disability Confident Committed Level 1 Employer.
• Excellent holiday package: 25 days annual leave, Bank Holidays and 3 days between Christmas and New Year:
• Double-matched pension up to 10% of your salary;
• 4% of your salary to use towards selecting benefits that work for you, including health cash plan, Private Medical Insurance; buying holiday, topping up your pension;
• E-Vehicle Scheme; Cycle2Work; Tech Scheme; Gym Discounts; Give As you Earn; PerkPal;
• Life insurance 4x salary;
• Free to access EAP & Financial Wellbeing advice;
• Enhanced maternity and paternity leave;
• Hybrid working - with great offices to work from 1-3 days per week;
• Investment in your ongoing learning and development with us;
• Company social events throughout the year and free office snacks!

We have a vibrant and engaging culture where all voices are heard and a variety of employee led affinity groups who champion initiatives and provide opportunities for feedback to be shared.

We use moments in the year to educate everyone at Digital Catapult on different aspects of Equity, Diversity and Inclusion and to raise awareness.

We also enjoy socialising and having fun together through a variety of company-wide events held throughout the year including our football team, running and climbing groups and volunteering activities.