Communications Consultant Needed – Storage Project (Scotland)

Description:
We are seeking an experienced communications and public policy consultant to support the consultation phase of a battery energy storage system (BESS) project in Scotland.
This is one project in a potential pipeline of similar developments, and there is an opportunity for ongoing, long-term engagement for the right candidate.

The successful candidate will have a strong understanding of the Scottish planning system and demonstrable experience in stakeholder and community engagement for energy or infrastructure projects, ideally including battery storage or renewables.

Scope of Work:
The consultant will support the delivery of a planning and stakeholder consultation process, including:
• Assist in planning strategy
• Outreach to key communities and stakeholders
• Executing on stakeholder engagement strategy
• Preparing consultation and engagement materials (e.g. non-technical summaries, briefing documents, presentation content)
• Leading or supporting stakeholder and community engagement activities (virtual and in-person)
• Acting as a point of contact for stakeholder queries where required
• Managing, tracking, and documenting consultation and engagement feedback
• Advising on how consultation and stakeholder inputs should inform the planning application

Deliverables may include:
• Review of consultation and stakeholder engagement strategy
• Review of stakeholder mapping and outreach plan
• Draft consultation and engagement materials
• Record of consultation activities, stakeholder interactions, and responses
• Drafting of Planning Statement and supporting documentation

Requirements:
• Proven experience in UK (preferably Scottish) planning policy and applications
• Strong track record in stakeholder and community engagement for infrastructure or energy projects
• Experience with BESS, renewables, or similar developments
• Excellent communication and facilitation skills
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple stakeholders effectively

Desirable:
• Familiarity with Scottish Government energy policy and net zero strategy
• Experience working with local planning authorities and key consultees in Scotland

Engagement Details:
• Immediate start date (please specify availability)
• We are looking for a long-term candidate that can support multiple projects in the UK
• An NDA will be required

To Apply, please provide:
• A brief summary of relevant experience
• Examples of similar projects (particularly in Scotland or energy sector, highlighting stakeholder engagement)
• Your availability and fee/rate