Senior Policy Analyst. 11 Month contract

My client stated ambition to make markets work better for consumers by representing their interests nationally and internationally. In doing so, they will grow public understanding of the importance of open and competitive markets and influence public policy and legislation. This role and Division’s work is firmly rooted in the companies statutory function to conduct research and advise policymakers in relation to consumer protection and competition matters. This is an opportunity for a motivated professional with policy and research experience, to join a growing multi-disciplinary team.

The Division consists of four distinct units : Policy Unit, International Unit, Economic Research Unit and Market Insights Unit.

The remit of the Division is to :

• Use research and market studies to promote changes that make markets work better for consumers.
• Horizon scan to identify issues arising for consumers and in relation to competition in markets at an early stage.
• Ensure that consumer interests and competition concerns are given appropriate consideration in legislative, regulatory and policy decisions by working with Government Departments, regulators and other State agencies.
• Engage with the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment (DETE) and wider Government regarding the powers and statutory responsibilities, including legislative proposals, the implementation of EU Regulations and Directives and assessing the potential impact of new policy or legislative initiatives on the core consumer and competition mandate.
• Lead and coordinate the companyes international engagement including its response to the post-Brexit environment, identifying emerging implications and actively engaging with relevant stakeholders.
• Strengthen the profile and voice in national and international forums.
• Ensure the efficient and effective administration of the international activities.

There is also a strong responsive element to the role of PRI as it is heavily influenced by external factors including developments both at EU and national level. As issues emerge via media commentary, policy developments and / or national and international political initiatives, the PRI works across the organisation to preparethe response and engage with national and international stakeholders.

As a Senior Policy Analyst, you will report to the Head of Policy and work closely with PRI colleagues and other staff. You will be responsible for delivering specific areas of the PRI work plan which covers policy development and interaction with policy makers and other stakeholders.

Key Responsibilities

i.Researching, analysing and developing evidence-based position papers and submissions on competition and consumer protection issues;

ii.Proactively monitoring the external environment to identify opportunities for the CCPC to influence policy or legislative development and respond to issues of concern;

iii.Supporting the development and implementation of Market Studies - examples available at ;

iv.Assessing and responding to consumer and business complaints, accordingly;

v.Engaging with national and international stakeholders such as sectoral regulators, Government Departments, institutions and public representatives.

vi.Promoting the Vision, Mission and Values of the company that will pro-actively contribute to the achieving its strategic objectives;

vii.Carrying out any other additional tasks that may be assigned to deliver the business objectives of the P&I Division and the company.

Technical / Professional

Essential

i.Minimum three years’ experience public policy research / appraisal, including application of research, analytical and / or econometric skills.

ii.Third level qualification in economics, law, social science or other relevant discipline or comparable relevant experience.

iii.Proven ability to manage a range of diverse assignments concurrently and meet fixed reporting deadlines.

iv.Proven ability to research, collate, analyse and present information that require primary and secondary research in a clear, balanced and concise manner.

v.Proven ability to successfully engage with internal and external stakeholders, including external suppliers.

vi.Strong team-working skills and experience of working with colleagues to deliver project objectives.

vii.Track record of being a self-starter with a strong results orientation and ability to meet demanding deadlines in a reactive environment.

viii.Knowledge of primary, secondary and market (quantitative and qualitative) research methodologies.

Desirable

i.Knowledge of consumer and / or competition related legislative environment, issues and challenges.

ii.Knowledge of digital markets and their impact on consumer and / or competition issues.

iii.People management experience in supporting a team to deliver diverse responsibilities.