Public Affairs Manager

Job Description

We’re looking for a proactive and politically savvy Public Affairs Advisor to champion Virgin Media O2’s engagement across Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland. In this pivotal role, you’ll help shape our voice in the devolved nations, strengthening relationships with political stakeholders, navigating evolving policy landscapes, and supporting high-impact campaigns that influence change.

Working closely with the Senior Public Affairs Manager for the Devolved Nations and the wider Corporate Affairs team, you’ll provide insight, strategic counsel, and on‑the‑ground support to ensure our priorities are understood and our reputation continues to thrive. If you’re passionate about politics, public policy and making a tangible impact, this is your chance to join a fast‑paced team at the heart of the UK’s digital future.

Who we are

The UK’s fastest broadband network. The nation’s best-loved mobile brand. And, one of the UK's biggest companies too. We put our customers first, making life simpler, smoother, and more joyful. With big ambitions and a brilliant team, we’re building a more connected future for everyone.

Our ways of working

We’re a flexible-first organisation, because we know people do their best work when they have choice and clarity. To support meaningful collaboration, we ask everyone to spend at least eight days each month connecting in person.

That doesn’t just mean time in the office, it could be team meetings, off-sites, volunteering days, cross-functional projects, or away days - anywhere meaningful collaboration happens. What matters is making those moments purposeful, so when we come together, it really counts.

Accessible, inclusive and equitable for all

Virgin Media O2 is an equal opportunities employer, and we're working hard to remove bias and barriers for our people and candidates. So, we build equity and inclusion into everything we do, from the policies we craft to the relationships we shape. We support and encourage you to be your authentic self throughout your application journey with us.

The must haves

In order to be considered, you must have the following experience;

• Experience working in Public Affairs or politics, either in‑house, agency-side, or supporting elected representatives in Westminster or the devolved governments.
• Strong understanding of devolved governments, including political structures, legislative processes, and policy development.
• Proven ability to deliver public affairs or integrated campaigns that influence stakeholders and drive change
• Excellent relationship‑building and stakeholder management skills, with confidence engaging elected members, officials, and senior leaders.
• Exceptional communication skills—written, verbal and interpersonal—with the ability to simplify complex issues clearly and credibly

The other stuff we are looking for

We'd also love you to bring;

• Experience collaborating with Public Relations teams on joined‑up campaigns.
• Strong horizon‑scanning, political monitoring, or stakeholder‑mapping experience.
• Ability to manage sensitive or complex political queries from elected officials.
• Highly adaptable, creative mindset with strong problem‑solving skills.
• Well‑organised and comfortable balancing multiple priorities in a fast‑paced environment.

What's in it for you

Our goal is to celebrate our people, their lives and everything in-between. We strive to create a culture that empowers everyone to bring the best versions of themselves to work each and every day. We believe the most inclusive and diverse culture makes for a better business and a brighter world.

Working at Virgin Media O2, you get a bumper reward package bursting with benefits, and loads of extras you can add if you’d like to. These are crafted to support both you and your loved ones, making sure that you’re covered no matter what life throws your way.

Next steps

If we feel like a place where you can belong, we'd love to learn more about you as a person and your experience to date. Once you've submitted an application the next steps of the process, if successful, will include an online psychometric assessment and a two stage interview process.

When you apply, you'll be asked about any adjustments you might need to support the recruitment process. Let us know, and we'll be sure to discuss it with you.

Please note: Applications will be reviewed, and interviews conducted throughout the duration of this advert, therefore we may bring the closing date forward. We encourage all interested applicants to apply as soon as possible. If you’re offered a job with us, it will be conditional, based on the passing of background checks. All roles require a criminal record check and some roles need a financial probity check. Your recruiter can provide you with more information if needed.

Thanks for your patience and for showing a curiosity about joining the Virgin Media O2 family.

We will ensure that individuals with disabilities are provided reasonable accommodation to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform crucial job functions, and to receive other benefits and privileges of employment. Please contact us to request accommodation.

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