Public Affairs Officer (x2 posts)

The British Academy – the UK’s national body for the humanities and social sciences – is seeking two Public Affairs Officers to join our Media and Public Affairs team in the Communications and Engagement Directorate, supporting the delivery of our public affairs function.

The role

The post-holder(s) will play a central role in the work of the Public Affairs team, at an exciting time for the British Academy as we seek to extend our reach and influence with parliamentarians, Government, policymakers and other key stakeholders.

You will deliver influencing activities, independently and with colleagues, to build the Academy’s profile and increase awareness of the value of the Social Sciences, Humanities and the Arts (SHAPE). You will work with Public Affairs colleagues to monitor external developments, horizon-scan and pursue opportunities for the Academy to engage stakeholders proactively.

You will have a good knowledge of UK politics, including the Devolved Nations and local and regional structures. You will understand the range of tactics used to influence Parliament and Government and apply this knowledge to develop and deliver public affairs strategies that engage parliamentarians and key stakeholders.

You will work effectively with colleagues across the Academy and external stakeholders, including parliamentarians and their staff. You will help build and strengthen stakeholder relationships and deliver an effective public affairs function.

You will be highly organised and able to manage a varied workload. Using your editorial and political judgement, you will produce high-quality outputs—from communications materials to events—that showcase the Academy’s evidence and policy insights, helping turn engagement into influence.

About the Academy

The British Academy is the UK’s national body for the humanities and social sciences, established by Royal Charter in 1902. We mobilise these disciplines to understand the world and shape a brighter future. With a Fellowship of around 1,700 leading national and international academics, the Academy invests in researchers and projects across the UK and overseas, engages the public with fresh thinking and debate, and brings together scholars, government, business and civil society to influence policy.

The Academy has five directorates, plus a small Governance & Fellowship Team.

Working at the Academy

Our senior management team has fostered a culture of collaboration, respect and empathy, where all contributions are recognised. Our people strategy focuses on building strengths and sharing insights, with learning and development, wellbeing, and equality, diversity and inclusion at the heart of how we work. Investing in our staff and supporting a healthy work/life balance is central to our continued success.

Terms and conditions

The British Academy is based at 10–11 Carlton House Terrace, London SW1, a Grade I listed building. We offer a competitive benefits package, including a 35-hour working week with flexible hybrid working, 34 days’ annual leave plus Bank Holidays, a subsidised canteen and an excellent occupational pension.

How to apply

We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds, reflecting our commitment to a diverse and inclusive workplace, equal opportunity and addressing under-representation. We will make reasonable adjustments to support disabled applicants and offer an interview to candidates who meet the minimum selection criteria.

Please contact the HR team at hrteam@thebritishacademy.ac.uk if you have any questions.

Closing date: Midday on 24 July 2026.

Interviews: 13/14 August 2026 (may be subject to change).

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