Divisional Head of Business Affairs – Banking

Meraki Talent are working with a leading global bank to help them identify a Divisional Head of Business Affairs to lead regional external engagement and communications across key UK markets. In this pivotal role, you will work closely with senior business leaders to deliver integrated public affairs, communications, and stakeholder engagement strategies that support commercial growth and protect corporate reputation.

You will act as a visible and trusted ambassador, representing the organisation externally and engaging with political, media, and business stakeholders to enhance understanding of our economic and societal contribution. Your ability to navigate complex policy landscapes, manage high-level relationships, and shape external narratives will be critical to success.

• Lead the development and delivery of regional corporate affairs strategies aligned with business and commercial objectives.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with political, media, and business stakeholders to advance the organisation’s interests.
• Identify, analyse, and influence policy developments and regulatory changes, ensuring the business is positioned effectively in public discussions.
• Provide strategic communications advice to senior leaders and manage advocacy campaigns that enhance reputation and visibility.
• Collaborate across internal teams to ensure consistent messaging and alignment of policy, communications, and business objectives.
• Manage and measure the impact of advocacy, communications, and engagement initiatives, driving continuous improvement.
• Support leadership in managing reputational risk, crisis response, and issues management.

• Proven experience in corporate affairs, government relations, media, consultancy, or regulated industries.
• A strong commercial mindset and ability to connect policy and reputation work to business goals.
• Excellent relationship-building and influencing skills, with credibility across political, media, and corporate audiences.
• Deep understanding of the UK political, media, and business landscape.
• Skilled communicator with excellent written, verbal, and presentation abilities.
• Track record of delivering integrated campaigns, managing complex projects, and achieving measurable outcomes.
• Calm and collaborative approach, with the ability to perform under pressure in fast-paced environments.