Industry Set for High Staff Turnover at a Critical Time
- Over one-third of the policy and public affairs workforce is planning to change roles in the next six months
- The transport sector is expected to experience the largest loss of talent
- Employers may face leadership gaps as one in four directors prepare to leave their roles
The policy and public affairs sector is bracing for a significant wave of staff turnover in the next six months, coinciding with a key period of political transition as the new Government begins to roll out crucial policy changes. This insight comes from the first-ever Policy and Public Affairs Salary & Employment Report, published by leading recruitment specialist, Policy by Murray.
Talent Exodus in the Pipeline
The report, which surveyed over 4,000 policy and public affairs professionals across the UK, reveals that a concerning number of employees 31% are considering leaving their current roles within the next half-year. Amid the ongoing skills shortages affecting a wide range of industries, Policy by Murray warns that this level of turnover could severely impact employers at a crucial moment in the political landscape.
“The results of our survey suggest that the changing environment in the UK is placing a major strain on policy and public affairs professionals,” said Lauren Maddocks, Associate Director at Policy by Murray. It is evident that a significant number of professionals, including those at senior levels, are considering transitioning to new roles. This anticipated turnover is worrying and may have detrimental effects, especially given the existing skill shortages in these fields.”
Transport Sector to Bear the Brunt of Turnover
The transport sector, in particular, is set to experience the highest levels of staff departures, with over half (51%) of professionals in this area considering a switch to a new industry. The financial services sector follows closely behind, with 36% of professionals seeking new opportunities within the next six months.
This talent drain comes at a critical time, as the new Labour Government prepares to deliver on its infrastructure transformation promises outlined in the election manifesto. Furthermore, the departure of talent from the financial services sector could undermine the UK’s position in the global marketplace. With these sectors playing pivotal roles in the Government’s long-term strategy, losing policy expertise now could hinder progress.
Leadership Turnover Expected to Rise
The report also highlights that leadership-level turnover is set to increase, with one in three ‘heads of’ departments and one in four directors indicating they plan to change roles in the coming months. The loss of such high-level talent could disrupt organisational strategies, productivity, and key policy agendas during a time when stability and experience are needed most.
A Call for Better Retention Strategies
In response to these findings, Policy by Murray emphasises the need for employers to re-evaluate their retention strategies. The report suggests that flexible working arrangements and enhanced benefits packages, especially those addressing the ongoing cost-of-living crisis, are critical tools in attracting and retaining talent. By listening to their employees’ needs, employers may have a better chance of retaining key personnel during this transitional period.
Maddocks added, “There’s no simple solution to this challenge, but our research shows that employers who offer flexibility and support in areas like cost-of-living concerns are better positioned to retain their workforce. As we navigate this politically sensitive time, retaining top talent will be essential for maintaining stability in the policy and public affairs landscape.”
Conclusion
With the potential for a major talent exodus on the horizon, policy and public affairs employers must act swiftly to implement retention strategies that address the concerns of their workforce. Failure to do so could result in a loss of expertise that will be difficult to replace, especially during such a critical time for the UK’s political and economic future.
