Location: London, Paddington   

Reports to: Director of Public Affairs and Public Relations 

First Bus has a fantastic opportunity for a Head of Political Engagement to join the Group Brand & Communications shared service. This is a pivotal role for First Bus and First Group, helping shape and communicate our policies, influence emerging public policy and to build strategic partnerships that support our growth and purpose.   

This is a full-time, permanent role based in London, with regular travel across the UK. 

Welcome to First Bus

Hello. First Bus is one of the country's largest bus operators – taking 1.6 million customers to their destinations every day. We're a forward-looking business at the forefront of bus technology, leading the way on contactless payments, mobile Apps and real time information. Our investment in state-of-the-art, new buses is just one part of our transition to a low-carbon future. It's an exciting time to be here.

About the role

As the transport sector undergoes significant transformation, we are presented with new challenges and opportunities. This is a unique opportunity to position the Group within this landscape and to drive growth, both in our business and the wider economy.  

This role will be responsible for the development and delivery of the political engagement strategy for both First Bus and FirstGroup. Acting as a trusted advisor to the CEO and senior leaders across Bus and Rail, you'll provide clear direction on political positioning, opportunities and risks.   

What You'll Do 

Political Strategy Leadership: Lead the Group's political engagement strategy across Bus and Rail, strengthening relationships with key political stakeholders to support commercial objectives. Set priorities ahead of major political milestones, including upcoming elections and the introduction of the Rail Bill. 

Advisory & Strategic Positioning: Advise senior leaders, including the C-Suite, on political positioning with Government and opposition parties. Provide insight on emerging political trends and recommend strategic responses. 

Political Engagement & Representation: Build and maintain strong relationships with politicians, advisors, officials and policy influencers. Represent the organisation at political and industry events, including party conferences, acting as spokesperson where required. 

Alliance Building & Advocacy: Develop strategic alliances with external organisations to amplify our influence and advance shared objectives. Ensure consistent messaging and alignment across the Group to maximise impact. 

Monitoring, Risk & Intelligence: Monitor legislative and regulatory developments across the transport sector and advise on potential impacts. Identify, mitigate and escalate political risks, providing high quality briefings and submissions. 

Collaboration & Capability Building: Work collaboratively across Group functions to align political strategy, messaging and engagement. Build political awareness and capability across Bus and Group teams. 

About you

We're looking for an experienced, results focused political engagement leader. You'll be a strategic thinker with a strong track record of driving projects from concept through to delivery. 
Your ability to build and leverage connections across the political landscape will be second to none. You'll bring an established network of relationships within the UK political environment enabling you to influence effectively and open doors.   

Skills & Experience 

• Demonstrated experience in public affairs, government relations, or a related discipline, ideally within the transportation sector or wider public sector environment.  

• Strong knowledge of the UK political landscape and legislative processes.  

• Exceptional communication skills, both written and verbal, with the ability to build relationships, influence effectively, and engage stakeholders at all levels.  

• Proven ability to develop, maintain, and manage partnerships and strategic alliances.  
• A proactive, independent working style, with the capability to navigate complex policy issues and secure stakeholder support. 

Rewards & Benefits

• Competitive salary + annual bonus 
• Your health is important to us which is why we offer Simply Health & Smart Health for you and your dependents at no cost to you! This offering includes cash back benefits across optical & dental as well as virtual GP appointments, mental health support and nutrition and fitness advise. Our EAP provision offers 24hr, 365 days a year mental health support
• We are also committed to your financial wellbeing, and we offer a platform with many discounts on high street brands and supermarkets etc
• Working at First you also receive discounted train travel for you and your family after 6 months service as well as a free bus pass
• Cycle to work scheme
• 25 days' holiday + bank holidays
• Pension scheme and chance to buy discounted First Group shares
• Flexible working

Please note applications for this role will close Sunday 29 March. 

We put a big focus on physical and mental wellbeing at First Bus. We recognise that anyone can be affected by the stresses and strain of work, or life outside it. You'll find a range of health-promotion initiatives, and you will have 24/7 access to our confidential Employee Assistance Programme.

Please apply now. We look forward to receiving your application.

Public transport serves everyone, whatever their differences. At First Bus, we want to be an employer open to you, no matter what your differences are. We aspire to be an inclusive organisation because diverse backgrounds, thinking and experiences bring so many benefits to our customers, communities and people. We welcome applications from all.

Applicants are advised that background checks will be conducted as a standard part of our recruitment process.