Introduction

RSPB Cymru is looking for a committed individual to help us secure the legal, policy and financial frameworks we need to drive nature restoration in Wales.

The successful candidate will have have a sound knowledge of nature conservation in Wales, an understanding of relevant legislation and policy, and a creative approach to thinking about how the RSPB and the wider environment movement can have influence. You will have the ability to analyse complex issues, and bring your communication skills to bear in negotiating with and influencing others. You will be passionate about the natural world, self motivated and work well in teams and networks. In short, you will be an enthusiastic and proactive advocate who will champion the change nature needs to decision-makers, professional counterparts and the public. In turn, you will join a friendly and dynamic RSPB community, committed to creating a better future for nature.

You will be part of the RSPB Cymru Policy & Advocacy Team. The role will be home-based and will require travel within Wales. 


What's the role about? 

A key focus for the role in the coming year will be the anticipated Welsh Government Bill on environmental principles, governance and nature recovery targets - essential to address the post Brexit 'environmental governance gap' and to secure the action needed, across sectors, for Wales to deliver on its global biodiversity commitments.

The post holder will work with counterparts across the RSPB to develop and provide our input to the Bill development, and parallel development of policy, secondary legislation and guidance. They will also work with RSPB Cymru teams to build understanding of the new legal framework and how we as an organisation need to engage with it, and continue to support this engagement into the future. 

Working with our Nature Positive Economy team, the post holder will identify and pursue opportunities to influence funding for nature, from public and private sources. They will provide support to RSPB Cymru colleagues on exciting projects such as the Nature Service for Wales and the Living Levels Landscape Partnership. 

The post-holder will need to work with environmental NGOs, Natural Resources Wales, the Office of the Future Generations Commissioner, the Welsh Government and other public, voluntary and private sector bodies in Wales to advocate for and deliver the change Welsh nature needs.   

Essential skills, knowledge and experience: 

- Educated to degree level or equivalent, or experience relevant to the role. 
- Able to analyse complex issues in a fast-paced environment 
- Able to negotiate with and influence others 
- Good written and verbal communication skills e.g. professional, persuasive, engaging
- Able to manage projects effectively

 
Desirable skills, knowledge and experience:

- An understanding of environment/biodiversity policy, particularly in Wales
- Working understanding of Welsh, UK and global institutions relevant to environment/biodiversity policy
- An understanding of the role of public facing communications/campaigns in supporting policy advocacy 
- Experience of operating in a policy and/or advocacy role
- Ability to communicate in Welsh

The job advert is also available in Welsh (see attached)

This is a Permanent Full-Time role for 37.5hours per week. 

We are looking to conduct interviews for this position from as soon as possible. For further information please contact annie.smith@rspb.org.uk.

As part of this application process you will be asked to complete an application form including evidence on how you meet the skills, knowledge, and experience listed above.

We are committed to developing an inclusive and diverse RSPB, in which everyone feels supported, valued, and able to be their full selves. To achieve our vision of creating a world richer in nature, we need more people, and more diverse people, on nature’s side. People of colour and disabled people are currently underrepresented across the environment, climate, sustainability, and conservation sector. If you identify as a person of colour and/or disabled, we are particularly interested in receiving your application. Contact us to discuss any additional support you may need to complete your application.

The RSPB is an equal opportunities employer. This role is covered by the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974.

The RSPB is a licenced sponsor. This role is not eligible for UK Visa Sponsorship - the successful applicant will need to have a pre-existing Right to Work in the UK in order to be offered an employment contract.

Before applying for this role, we recommend reading through the candidate guidance notes attached to the top of this advert.