Political Advocacy Advisor

Position description

The Global Antibiotic Research and Development Partnership (GARDP) is a not-for-profit organization dedicated to developing and delivering new treatments for drug-resistant infections that pose a threat to global public health. Founded by the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Drugs for Neglected Diseases initiative (DNDi), GARDP works in collaboration with partners worldwide to ensure equitable access to innovative antibiotic treatments. 

Role Overview:

The Political Advocacy Advisor will drive GARDP’s political advocacy and influencing efforts in the UK and Northern Ireland. The primary focus of this role is to elevate GARDP’s profile, foster strategic relationships, and influence policymakers to support the organization’s innovative solutions to combat antimicrobial resistance
(AMR). 

This position offers a unique opportunity to be part of meaningful change by influencing national and international policies to address AMR. By working closely with political stakeholders and leveraging GARDP’s global reputation, the Political Advocacy Advisor will contribute to advancing GARDP’s mission to develop and deliver solutions for drug-resistant infections. 

This position is part-time, requiring an expected commitment of 1 day per week over a 12-month period, and offers flexibility in working arrangements. 

Key Responsibilities:

Advocacy Strategy Development 

• Develop and implement comprehensive, targeted advocacy strategies to achieve GARDP’s objectives within the UK and Northern Ireland, ensuring alignment with global priorities. 
• Identify and act on key opportunities to influence AMR-related policy and funding decisions at the national level. 
• Integrate political advocacy with GARDP’s external relations, leveraging synergies between advocacy and fundraising initiatives. 

Stakeholder Engagement 

• Build and sustain relationships with key UK Government departments, including the Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC) and the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO). 
• Engage with Parliament, cross-party groups, and Members of Parliament to champion AMR initiatives and GARDP’s mission. 
• Cultivate relationships with philanthropic foundations, corporate stakeholders, and global health leaders to advance advocacy and fundraising goals. 

Political Advisory and Intelligence 

• Monitor and analyze political developments, providing strategic advice to GARDP on opportunities for engagement. 
• Identify and engage with key opinion leaders, including ministers, special advisors, and parliamentary champions for AMR. 
• Provide insights into government policies and procedures to navigate political landscapes effectively. 

Advocacy and Representation 

• Represent GARDP in high-level forums, donor meetings, and parliamentary events to influence policy and decision-making processes. 
• Amplify GARDP’s advocacy messaging through UK media, joint campaigns, and public statements in collaboration with the communications team. 
• Facilitate participation in ambassadorial initiatives and events led by the UK Special Envoy on AMR. 

Integration with Global Health Diplomacy 

• Leverage UK leadership in science diplomacy to strengthen international collaborations aligned with GARDP’s mission. 
• Engage with networks such as the UK Science and Innovation Network (SIN) and Chief Scientific Advisers (CSAs) to position GARDP in influential global policymaking forums.

Qualifications

• Proven experience in political advocacy, public affairs, or a related field, preferably within global health or AMR. 
• Deep understanding of the UK political landscape, including government departments (e.g., DHSC, FCDO) and parliamentary processes. 
• Established network of contacts within UK political circles, including cross-party AMR groups, ministers, and special advisors. 
• Demonstrated ability to develop and execute effective advocacy strategies aligned with organizational goals. 
• Experience working with corporate stakeholders, philanthropic entities, and global health organizations. 
• Familiarity with UK media outlets and experience in public communications and campaigns. 
• Strong communication, negotiation, and interpersonal skills. 
• Master’s degree in political science, public health, international relations, or a related field is preferred. 

Key Competencies: 

• Strategic thinking and political acumen. 
• Strong relationship-building and networking capabilities. 
• Ability to work collaboratively across departments and with external partners.
• Ability
  to work collaboratively across departments and with external partners.

Application instructions

Interested candidates should submit a CV and cover letter detailing their qualifications and motivation for applying. Send to: Kathelene Weiss [email protected] 

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