Associate Consultant, Public Affairs

Job Brief

We are currently hiring an Associate Consultant to join our India team. In this role, you will contribute to the successful execution of client projects under the guidance of a project manager. Key responsibilities include developing and managing public affairs initiatives, supporting client deliverables, and assisting with new business development efforts. 

What we offer

The opportunity to work alongside smart, collaborative colleagues across India and around the globe. Access to top-tier in-house resources, including opinion research and creative support. Exposure to high-profile, complex issues for leading companies and associations. A culture that values your contributions and empowers you to grow, thrive, and shape your own career path. 

Responsibilities 

Strategic Policy Analysis and Advocacy

• Conduct in-depth research and analysis of emerging government policies and regulations. 
• Develop comprehensive policy briefs and presentations for internal and external stakeholders. 
• Build and maintain strong relationships with key government officials (For eg. MoC&I, MEITY, MoF, DoT, MoEFCC, Mining, Shipping, Power, Niti Aayog, Invest India, Industry Chambers, etc.) to influence policy decisions. 
• Develop and execute targeted public affairs strategies to enhance the company's reputation and position. 

Project Management Support And Client Relations 

• Collaborate closely with Project Managers to ensure timely delivery of client deliverables. 
• Identify potential project risks and develop mitigation strategies. 
• Prepare high-quality written materials, including reports, presentations, and summaries. 
• Identify new business opportunities within the existing client base and develop tailored proposals. 

Business Development And Growth 

• Expand the company's client portfolio through proactive business development efforts. 
• Develop and implement strategies to increase revenue and market share. 
• Represent the company at industry events and conferences. 

Team Leadership And Development 

• Mentor and guide junior team members in policy analysis, research, and business development.
• Lead project teams as required to achieve project objectives. 

Qualifications And Experience 

• University degree or higher, preferably in Public Affairs, Communications, Political Science, International Relations, Public Policy, or a related field. 
• 3–5 years of experience in public affairs or policy-related fields. Backgrounds from consulting, think tanks, government agencies, or corporate in-house teams are all welcomed. 
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to present ideas clearly and professionally. 
• Demonstrated analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective time management. 
• Genuine interest in current affairs, policy issues, and global industry trends. 
• Proactive, curious, and quick to learn, with the ability to work independently and collaboratively. 
• Positive attitude and willingness to take on diverse responsibilities and client needs. 
• Familiarity with media monitoring tools, stakeholder mapping, or advocacy work is an advantage. 

About APCO in India

India is playing an increasingly important role in global geopolitics — not only as the world's largest democracy but also as an emerging economic powerhouse. It is growing and changing at an exponential pace, due to the pro-reform policies of the government and increased investor confidence. 

APCO's India operations began in 2007, and our regional operation is one of the largest and most successful in the firm. Our offerings in India include corporate advisory, government relations, strategic communications, coalition building, crises management and consulting services. Our clients in India include multinational companies, industry associations, non-profit organizations and governments. 

We take an integrated approach to consulting, which is based on our strong public affairs heritage, our nuanced understanding of strategic communications and remarkable research, creative and digital capabilities. This is supported by our global perspective and local knowledge, enabling us to address complex issues for our clients and deliver path-breaking campaigns. 

Our team in India comprises a significant bench of senior-level staff with deep expertise coming from a range of journalistic, business, management consulting, communications, academic and government backgrounds. The team is based in New Delhi, Mumbai and Bangalore. Alongside trusted affiliates, the team penetrates all important markets within and around the sub-continent. 

Career at APCO

At APCO, we are committed to building diverse teams that reflect the communities in which we operate. We embrace diversity of identity, experience, and thought—embedding these values in our culture, policies, and practices. Our goal is to create a positive, inclusive work environment where everyone belongs, thrives, and succeeds.