Defra Group Policy Officer (x2 posts)

The Veterinary Medicines Directorate (VMD) is an Executive Agency of the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) and is responsible for ensuring the safety, quality, and efficacy of veterinary medicines in the UK.

We have a vacancy for two Policy Officers in the Legislation Team

This exciting and interesting job puts you at the heart of the VMD’s work as the regulatory and policy lead for issues concerning the authorisation, use, and manufacture of veterinary medicines in the UK. As a Policy Officer, you will be responsible for the development and implementation of policy and legislation on veterinary medicines such as authorisation, manufacture, supply and prescription. You will also advise stakeholders on these requirements.

Veterinary medicines regulation has undergone a period of significant change due to the introduction of new legislation in Great Britain. The regulation of veterinary medicines operates slightly differently in Northern Ireland, and this adds to the complexity of the work dealt with by the VMD.

We are looking for you to have experience of / in:

• Working in a project environment/project management.
• Developing strong working relationships with others.
• Policy making.

We’re looking for someone that:

• Is confident in the interpretation and understanding of information, including advising others on that information.
• Can manage a varied workload in a high-pressure, fast paced environment.
• Has the ability to quickly develop a sound working knowledge of a subject and / or complex issues.
• Can present complex information confidently and in an engaging manner to stakeholders, either individually or as part of a wider group discussion.
• Is proficient in the use of Microsoft Office 365 packages, particularly Microsoft Teams, Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook, and can learn in-house packages quickly.

How to Apply

If you're interested in applying for this position, we would love to hear from you! Please submit your application via the Civil Service Jobs website Policy Officer - Civil Service Jobs - GOV.UKwhere you will find a full job description including salary details.

The closing date for applications is 27  October 2025.

The Veterinary Medicines Directorate is an Equal Opportunity employer.

No Recruitment Agency, Newspaper or Publication calls please.

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