35453 - Policy Specialist - Data and Digital

We are looking for an experienced Policy Specialist to be part of a high-performing team at the centre of the EA. Focused on supporting delivery of the Government’s Water White Paper, including the creation of a new water regulator.

A key focus on supporting the development of data and digital outcomes required for the new regulator/future EA, ensuring these are delivered jointly with partner regulators. This will include helping to bridge policy ambition, strategic outcomes and the practical delivery of data systems and digital infrastructure.

You will:

Assist in providing EA input to support the government in delivering the ambition set out in the Water White Paper, including establishing a new integrated water regulator. This will involve developing and shaping EA policy and positioning including what that means for the future of the EA.

Support design and development of data and digital approaches that enable more efficient regulatory outcomes in the new water regulator/future EA, helping to translate policy intent into deliverable systems, tools and frameworks.

Support delivery of a programme of joint working with other regulators – aimed at improving coordination and regulatory outcomes, including through data sharing and digital alignment solutions.

Act as a bridge between policy, strategy and technical delivery, working with data and digital specialists to ensure shared understanding and coherence in approaches.

Support engagement with colleagues across Government, within the EA and with other regulators to ensure others are brought along as we develop our thinking.
Embrace constructive challenge and diverse thinking whilst keeping pace in a fast-moving working environment.


Be an active member of the team, playing a role in creating the conditions for a high performing and agile team to thrive and be resilient in the face of high demand and ambiguity.

The team

You’ll be an essential part of a small, motivated team working directly with the Strategic Design and Transition Programme Director and Deputy Directors. You can expect a friendly welcome and an engaging and rewarding environment to work in, where your personal development will be supported. 


Experience/skills required

Some of the key skills required are:

Experience of working with central government to develop policy, including engagement with data and digital specialists or programmes
Ability to think and act strategically, and translate between policy intent, strategic outcomes and delivery mechanisms
Understanding of data systems, digital delivery or digital transformation, or sufficient fluency to engage effectively with technical experts
Excellent communication and engagement skills, including the ability to translate complex or ambiguous issues into simple, targeted advice for a range of audiences
Strong ability to work across organisational boundaries, bring people together and build consensus
Experience of influencing at all levels