External Engagement Manager- General

BAT is evolving at pace into a global multi-category business. Our purpose is to create A Better Tomorrow™ by Building a Smokeless World.

Your key responsibilities will include:

• Develop and execute the company's external engagement strategy, building strong relationships with government stakeholders, policymakers, industry bodies, NGOs, and other key influencers.
• Shape and support advocacy initiatives that help create a sustainable and predictable regulatory environment for the business.
• Monitor political, regulatory, and legislative developments, providing strategic insights and recommendations to business leaders.
• Represent the company in discussions with external stakeholders and industry forums, helping to strengthen the company's reputation and influence.
• Lead stakeholder engagement campaigns and policy initiatives designed to address emerging business challenges and opportunities.
• Develop compelling advocacy materials, briefing documents, and position papers that simplify complex topics for diverse audiences.
• Partner closely with cross-functional teams, regional colleagues, and global experts to deliver impactful engagement strategies.
• Build and lead a high-performing team, fostering collaboration, capability development, and a strong culture of stakeholder management excellence.

What are we looking for?

• Degree qualified in Political Science, Public Policy, Law, Economics, International Relations, Business Administration, or a related discipline.
• Proven experience in government relations, public affairs, corporate affairs, external engagement, regulatory affairs, or stakeholder management.
• Strong understanding of the political, legislative, and regulatory landscape and how it impacts business performance.
• Demonstrated ability to engage, influence, and build trust with senior external stakeholders and decision-makers.
• Strong strategic thinking, problem-solving, and campaign management capabilities.
• Excellent communication and presentation skills, with the ability to translate complex issues into clear and compelling messages.
• Proven people leadership experience with a track record of developing talent and leading high-performing teams.
• Resilience, sound judgment, and the ability to navigate ambiguity in a fast-changing external environment.

What we offer you?

• A unique opportunity to influence policy discussions and stakeholder agendas that shape the future of one of the world's leading multinational organizations.
• Exposure to senior leaders across government, industry, business associations, and international markets.
• A highly strategic role where your work will directly contribute to protecting and enabling business growth.
• The opportunity to lead high-impact engagement and advocacy initiatives on issues that matter to the business and wider industry.
• Collaboration with local, regional, and global teams, offering broad exposure and opportunities to build an international network.
• A dynamic environment that will challenge you to think strategically, solve complex problems, and drive meaningful outcomes.
• Ongoing career development, leadership growth, and learning opportunities within a global organization committed to developing future leaders.

WHY JOIN BAT?

We’re one of the few companies named as a Global Top Employer by the Top Employers Institute – certified in offering excellent employee conditions.

Collaboration, inclusion and partnership underpin everything we do here at BAT. We are looking forward to enabling every individual to thrive, regardless of gender, sexual orientation, marital or civil partnership status, gender reassignment, race, religion or belief, colour, nationality, ethnic or national origin, disability, age, skills, experience, education, socio-economic and professional background, veteran status, perspectives and thinking styles. We know that embracing talent from all backgrounds is what makes us stronger and best prepared to meet our business goals.

We see the career breaks as opportunities not obstacles. Through The Global Returners program, we support professionals looking to restart their careers after an extended absence from the workforce (e.g. time out caring for family, parental leave, national service, sabbatical and/or starting an own venture).

Come bring your difference and see what is possible for you at BAT. Learn more about our culture and our award winning employee experience here.

If you require any reasonable adjustments or accommodations to help you perform at your best during the recruitment process, you are encouraged to notify us. We are fully committed to support you by making appropriate arrangements for you to demonstrate your full potential.