This exciting role offers the chance to play a key role in influencing parliamentary and political affairs for the organisation representing universities in the UK.

Our Public Affairs team has responsibility for Universities UK (UUK) political, parliamentary and stakeholder relationships and supports the sector to navigate and influence our political environment.

The post-holder plays a significant role in building relationships with politicians, government, civil servants, think tanks and other key stakeholders to ensure that UUK’s strategic priorities and activities inform influential audiences in the most effective way. The Public Affairs Officer also plays a key role in monitoring, understanding and amending relevant legislation. There’s also a part to play in UUK’s influencing ahead of elections such as those in May 2026, and ensuring that higher education is visible across the political spectrum.

Activities include briefing our Chief Executive, President and Board members ahead of political meetings, often attending these meetings alongside senior representatives; organising and attending UUK events related to our political priorities; drafting parliamentary questions and briefings for MPs and Peers on ahead of debates in Parliament; influencing legislation by drafting amendments and finding galvanising parliamentarians; drafting communications plans for key UUK campaigns.

We are looking for someone with sound political instinct and parliamentary nous who can spot opportunities to champion universities. You’ll need to be organised and write well for a range of audiences – and bring your passion for higher education.

The working pattern for this role is Monday – Friday, 9.30-17:30. This is a full-time role, and the team will be flexible with you where possible. You will also be expected to work outside those hours occasionally to attend events, for example, and to travel overnight for party political conferences. The post holder will be able to choose to work a mixture of in the UUK office in central London and at home, however they must be available to attend the office when required for core business reasons.

Interviews are expected to take place on Tuesday 9 December or Wednesday 10 December 2025.

Seniority level

• Associate

Employment type

• Full-time

Job function

• Education
• Higher Education

Referrals increase your chances of interviewing at Universities UK by 2x

Get notified about new Public Affairs Officer jobs in London Area, United Kingdom.