The Policy and Public Affairs Officer will be part of the Marketing, Communications and Partnerships team at The Open University in Wales. They will support The Open University in Wales’ engagement with politicians, policymakers and regulators at a pivotal moment for Welsh higher education, following the 2026 Senedd election and as Medr’s new regulatory system gets embedded. Reporting into the Senior Manager, Policy and Public Affairs, the role will focus on supporting and delivering political engagement, monitoring and analysing policy developments, and helping ensure the OU is well‑briefed, visible and credible. The role supports the University’s reputation as a credible and trusted partner in the Welsh policy environment. Key Responsbilities

Monitor and analyse policy and political developments relevant to higher education, lifelong learning and skills, from the Welsh Government and other sources, sharing timely intelligence internally. Produce clear briefing notes, summaries and background materials for colleagues and senior leaders. Support the coordination and drafting of responses to consultations, calls for evidence and policy reviews. Assist with engagement with Members of the Senedd, Ministers, advisers, officials and sector stakeholders, including maintaining accurate contact and engagement records. Support the planning and delivery of political engagement activity, including meetings, roundtables, visits and events. Contribute to the delivery of the University’s public affairs plan, ensuring follow‑up actions arising from engagement activity are tracked and progressed. Work with colleagues across the OU to coordinate messages, gather intelligence and support internal reporting. Provide practical support and guidance to colleagues on Welsh political and policy processes.

About You

Experience working in public affairs, policy, government, politics, or a comparable stakeholder‑facing environment. Understanding of Welsh political and policymaking processes, including the Senedd and Welsh Government. Proven ability to monitor, analyse and interpret policy developments and political activity and explain implications. Strong written communication skills, including experience producing briefings, summaries and background materials for internal or senior audiences. Experience supporting political or stakeholder engagement, such as meetings, events, visits or roundtables. Ability to manage stakeholder information, contacts and engagement activity accurately and systematically. Confidence working with a range of internal and external stakeholders, including politicians, officials and sector partners. Strong organisational skills, with the ability to manage multiple tasks, track actions and meet deadlines. Experience working on higher education, lifelong learning or skills policy. Ability to work in Welsh.

Why Join The Open University? At The Open University, we’re proud to be a world‑leader in accessible education and evidence‑led decision‑making. This role offers the chance to work on high‑impact, strategically important projects in an organisation with a strong social purpose. Our benefits include:

33 days annual leave, on top of bank holidays and a three‑day Christmas closure period. Access to a leading pension scheme for UK higher education with generous employer contributions. Staff Fee Waivers for OU study, meaning you could earn a degree for free. Hybrid working, with limited requirement to attend the office in‑person, with agile working and family friendly policies. Discounts, wellbeing support, and development opportunities.

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