Manager, Public Affairs Consulting

Burson is the global communications leader built to create value for clients through reputation. With highly specialized teams, industry-leading technologies and breakthrough creative, we help brands and businesses redefine reputation as a competitive advantage so they can lead today and into the future. Burson operates under WPP (NYSE: WPP), the creative transformation company. Learn more at www.bursonglobal.com.  

Position: Manager, Public Affairs Consulting

Job Summary:

As a Manager in Public Affairs Consulting at Burson, you will play a pivotal role in developing and executing strategic public affairs programs for our clients. You will be responsible for managing client relationships, providing high-level strategic counsel, and overseeing the implementation of public affairs campaigns.

Your role will involve working closely with government entities, industry associations, and key stakeholders to influence public policy and shape the external environment to benefit our clients.

Key Responsibilities:

Client Management:

• Serve as the primary point of contact for clients, providing strategic advice and ensuring their public affairs objectives are met.
• Develop and maintain strong client relationships, understanding their business goals and challenges.
• Lead client meetings, presentations, and reporting, ensuring clear communication and alignment on strategies and outcomes.

Strategic Planning and Execution:

• Develop comprehensive public affairs strategies that align with client objectives and address key regulatory, legislative, and reputational Challenges.
• Oversee the execution of public affairs campaigns, ensuring timely delivery and measurable results.
• Identify and mitigate potential risks to clients’ reputations and interests through proactive issues management and crisis communication strategies.

Government and Stakeholder Engagement:

• Establish and maintain relationships with key government officials, industry associations, and other relevant stakeholders.
• Monitor legislative and regulatory developments, providing clients with timely insights and analysis.
• Advocate on behalf of clients in meetings with government officials, regulators, and other decision-makers.

Team Leadership and Development:

• Manage and mentor junior team members, providing guidance and support to help them develop their skills and advance their careers.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams within Burson, leveraging expertise from various disciplines to enhance client deliverables.
• Foster a positive team environment that encourages innovation, collaboration, and professional growth.

Business Development:

• Contribute to new business efforts by identifying opportunities, developing proposals, and participating in pitches.
• Stay informed about industry trends and emerging issues to identify potential areas for client growth and service expansion.
• Build and maintain a network of contacts in the public affairs and communications industry.

Research and Analysis:

• Conduct in-depth research on policy issues, stakeholder positions, and industry trends to inform client strategies.
• Analyse the impact of legislative and regulatory developments on clients and provide actionable recommendations.
• Prepare detailed reports, white papers, and briefing materials for clients and internal stakeholders.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Political Science, Public Policy, Communications, or a related field. A Master’s degree is preferred.
• A minimum of 5-7 years of experience in public affairs, government relations, or a related field, preferably within a consultancy or agency environment.
• Proven experience in managing client relationships and delivering successful public affairs campaigns.
• Strong understanding of government processes, legislative and regulatory environments, and public policy issues.
• Excellent communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to think strategically and provide high-level counsel to clients.
• Strong leadership and team management abilities.
• Experience in business development and contributing to new business efforts.

At Burson, diversity, equity and inclusion are not just values; they are strategic imperatives that fuel our future in an industry built on the art of understanding, connecting and developing relationships. We believe that a diverse workforce is essential for inspiring bold ideas, fostering constructive dialogue and cultivating meaningful experiences that drive innovation and creativity. It also enables our agency to thrive and deliver brilliant work.  

For more information, visit www.bursonglobal.com.  

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