​TGRC is recruiting a Director of External Affairs on behalf of Solar Energy UK, the leading trade association for the UK solar and energy storage sector.

Solar Energy UK represents over 400 member companies delivering Britain’s clean energy transition. It is the industry’s collective voice, engaging with government, media and stakeholders to shape policy, support growth, and make the case for solar and storage as core parts of a secure, affordable, net-zero energy system. With national targets accelerating and the market expanding rapidly, this is a pivotal moment for the sector — and for Solar Energy UK’s leadership.

The Opportunity

Reporting to the CEO and sitting on the Senior Leadership Team (4 members), the Director of External Affairs will set the vision and lead delivery of Solar Energy UK’s external communications, media and public affairs strategy.

This is a highly visible leadership role, advising the Board on political, reputational and strategic issues, and acting as a senior spokesperson for the sector. You will shape national debate, engage decision-makers at the highest levels, and build a compelling public narrative around the role of solar and energy storage in the UK’s clean energy future.

The role includes line management of a growing team of Policy Affairs Advisors (currently 2), with the opportunity to expand capability as the organisation continues to scale its influence and impact.

Solar Energy UK is a 20-person not-for-profit organisation based in Covent Garden, London, operating a 4-day working week and offering flexible working through a hybrid model.

Key Focus Areas

As Director of External Affairs, you will:

• Strategic leadership: Own the long-term external affairs strategy and contribute to Solar Energy UK’s wider organisational direction and priorities.

• Political & public affairs: Lead engagement with political advisors, Parliament and key stakeholders, overseeing advocacy, campaigns and political risk management.

• Media & narrative: Drive proactive and reactive media strategy, build senior journalist relationships, and deliver authoritative thought leadership.

• Campaigns & public engagement: Design and deliver insight-led campaigns that influence policy, public opinion and sector outcomes.

• Digital leadership: Strengthen Solar Energy UK’s digital presence, creating compelling content and countering misinformation effectively.

• Member & stakeholder engagement: Act as a senior interface for members and partners, including the global solar industry, ensuring external affairs activity aligns with member priorities.

• Team leadership: Build and lead a high-performing External Affairs team, managing budgets, agencies and external funding where appropriate.

About You

You will bring passion, purpose and credibility, with strong judgement in high-stakes, high-profile environments. You’ll ideally have deep insight into the UK political, media and energy landscape, alongside exceptional influencing and communication skills.

You will also demonstrate:

• Proven experience shaping external affairs, public affairs, media strategy and stakeholder engagement

• Confidence advising senior leaders and Boards on reputational and political considerations

• Strong digital communications capability and understanding of narrative-building

• Experience designing and delivering campaigns that drive impact, including securing external funds for those campaigns

• Track record of leading and developing teams

• Experience in renewables, energy or climate (highly desirable)

Apply

Apply with a short cover letter outlining your interest in the role and the value you would bring to Solar Energy UK.