Location
Central London with flexible working; travel to London, Bedfordshire and occasional further locations required.

Hours
Full Time - 37.5 hours per week (part-time, pro-rata applications considered)

Salary
£39,205 per annum

About the Role
This is an excellent opportunity to influence critical decisions across the UK during a period of rapid renewable energy development. The role focuses on ensuring onshore renewable energy is deployed in harmony with nature, supporting policy and advocacy on strategic planning for the UK’s energy system. You will lead the advocacy of RSPB’s onshore renewable energy policy, reflecting the latest science on the climate and nature emergencies and responding to the energy security crisis. Working within the UK Land and Climate policy team, you will collaborate closely with colleagues across policy, communications, casework, and science teams in the four UK countries, particularly bioenergy and offshore wind leads, to ensure policy positions are evidence-based and contextually relevant. You will develop and coordinate advocacy strategies to embed RSPB’s policy positions within key external decision-making processes, focusing on Westminster, Whitehall, and relevant arms-length bodies. This role requires adaptability to respond to a fast-moving policy environment and the ability to balance competing priorities effectively.

Meeting the UK’s net zero targets demands major changes to the energy system, including increasing renewable energy sources and reducing overall demand. The UK Government is rolling out renewable energy systems alongside planning system reforms. However, it is vital that these developments do not exacerbate biodiversity loss. This role enables you to advocate for nature-positive solutions on energy and net zero aligned with RSPB’s strategic goals.

Experience
- Demonstrable knowledge of climate, planning, and energy policy in the UK or internationally, supported by relevant academic or professional qualifications.
- Proven advocacy and influencing skills with the ability to engage a wide range of stakeholders, including senior leaders.
- Experience leading and coordinating policy development and influencing strategies independently.
- Strong time management and organisational skills, capable of balancing limited resources across competing priorities.
- Ability to analyse complex issues in a fast-paced environment.
- Understanding of the role of public-facing communications and campaigns in supporting policy advocacy.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills; professional and persuasive.
- Confidence and capability to represent RSPB policy and advocacy publicly, including media and social media engagement.

About you
You are a highly motivated and effective advocate passionate about addressing the nature and climate crises together. You are skilled at convening stakeholders and working with senior leaders to reach consensus on organisational positions. You have a strong political understanding and can identify and analyse emerging issues relevant to RSPB’s objectives. You are adaptable, organised, and able to work effectively in a dynamic policy environment.

Qualifications
Relevant academic or professional qualifications in climate, energy, planning, or related fields are required.