Policy Analyst – DeHavilland Scotland

DeHavilland is the leading provider of political insight and intelligence, supplying public affairs professionals with the information and analysis they need to react to and influence government policy. Our clients include major players across financial services, tech and digital, manufacturing, healthcare, infrastructure, energy and government. 

We pride ourselves on our service, which is underpinned by powerful technology and brought to life by a team of talented people. It is fast-paced and fun, covering both the big drama of politics and the small details of the policies that really change lives. 

As a Policy Analyst you will be the main point of contact for a portfolio of clients with interests in Scottish politics and policy. From delivering live coverage of the Scottish Parliament to producing tailored analysis of devolved legislation and government announcements, you’ll play a crucial role in helping clients understand and respond to developments. This role is ideal for someone passionate about Scottish politics and keen to combine political expertise with client-facing and commercial responsibilities. 

The role can be based in Scotland or London, though if based in London, monthly travel to Scotland will be required. 

Key Responsibilities 

Political Intelligence & Monitoring 

• Deliver tailored political intelligence to clients through alerts, reports, and briefings, using our AI-supported content system. 
• Provide live coverage of Scottish Parliament proceedings, committee hearings, and government announcements. 
• Write clear and accurate summaries of debates, legislation, and consultations relevant to your clients. 

Scottish Policy Expertise & Research 

• Develop and maintain strong expertise in Scottish politics and devolved policy areas. 
• Monitor the political and policy developments most relevant to your clients’ interests. 
• Produce insightful briefings and research on Scottish Government priorities, legislation, and party positions. 
• Attend relevant events (online and in-person) to expand knowledge and sector understanding. 

Client Engagement & Support 

• Serve as the first point of contact for your portfolio of clients, providing excellent service and proactive communication. 
• Build strong client relationships through regular calls, updates, and meetings. 
• Support renewals and trial conversions alongside Account Managers, contributing to commercial success. 

Collaboration & Delivery 

• Work closely with the Lead Analyst to ensure consistency and quality of service across the policy team. 
• Contribute to training and supporting colleagues, particularly on Scottish politics. 
• Maintain up-to-date PeoplePoint profiles to ensure accurate client intelligence. 
• Provide additional research support as part of client research hours or bespoke projects. 

Your Experience & Knowledge 

• Degree-level qualification in a relevant subject (or equivalent experience). 
• At least 1 year’s experience in a political, public affairs, or policy role (Scotland, UK, or EU). 
• Strong knowledge of Scottish politics, Parliament, and government. 
• Excellent writing and analytical skills, with the ability to summarise complex issues clearly. 
• Confident and professional manner, with proven client-facing or stakeholder engagement experience. 
• Strong organisational skills and the ability to manage competing priorities. 

Desirable: 

• Direct experience working in or with the Scottish Parliament, Scottish Government, or devolved policy environment. 
• Familiarity with both devolved and UK-wide political institutions. 
• Prior experience producing monitoring, briefings, or political intelligence for clients. 

Why Join Us? 

• Be at the heart of Scottish political monitoring and intelligence. 
• Build expertise in devolved policy while developing client-facing and commercial skills. 
• Gain exposure to high-profile political debates, legislation, and decision-makers in Holyrood and beyond. 
• Work in a collaborative, supportive environment with real opportunities to progress. 
• Help leading organisations anticipate and respond to political developments in Scotland.