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Are you a strategic, purpose-driven leader? Ready to shape policy, influence public discourse, and make a real impact? If this sounds exciting, then this could be the role and organisation for you! Day One is on an exciting journey of growth and expansion as we increase our impact and reach more people affected by serious and life changing injury. We are looking to recruit an experienced Head of Policy and Public Affairs to join our team who can shape and help lead the charity’s external positioning, policy engagement and thought leadership activity across the UK. You will work closely with the CEO, other Directors and Heads of Service to develop and execute a three-year plan to develop our voice, influence and reach.
This is an exciting opportunity for someone committed to supporting the charity in its next phase of growth. Day One has always punched above its weight as a start-up charity, and now, into its fifth year of operation as a national charity, our voice is becoming more important than ever.
Day One’s development has been fast-paced, roles broad, and the culture has fostered autonomy and flexibility in senior roles. As the needs of the organisation evolve, this remains important but it is also now essential that we build a team with the capability and capacity to carry out robust, longer term scoping and planning in order to implement our new strategy and to create further opportunity for influence around the impact, care and support needs of people affected by serious and life-changing injury.
More About You
You’ll be an ambitious, dynamic, politically astute changemaker with:
Senior experience in public affairs, policy, or government relations. A strong record of delivering successful, outcome-driven campaigns. Excellent communication skills with a flair for impactful messaging. A collaborative, tenacious attitude and drive to make a difference. An established network and the credibility to influence. Willingness to travel as part of your role.
What You Will Bring
You might come from a charity, public sector or values-led organisation, or from a commercial role where people and purpose have been at the heart of your work. You may already have experience marketing services, campaigns or causes, or be ready for a step up with more ownership and responsibility. What matters most is your ability to work with empathy, bring ideas to life, and help people find, trust and access support when they need it most.
In your first six months, you will develop key relationships, scope the workplan and, in conjunction with colleagues, begin to build the evidence base needed for delivery of the ‘Voice’ element of our new strategy.
You will use our flagship annual campaign - Major Trauma Awareness week (MTAW) as a platform for expansion of our voice and influence work. You will work closely with the Head of Lived Experienced and Social Research to ensure that we are able to develop a sound evidence base from which to grow our influence and reach.
Beyond the first 6 months you will:
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Design and begin to implement an impactful influencing plan, identifying horizon scanning opportunities to influence and raise our profile.
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Utilise own assets and organisational assets, including the CEO, SLT and Heads of Service, to deliver this element of the new strategy.
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You will build highly credible and impactful relationships with a variety of stakeholders. This will include policy makers in national and local government officials, politicians, the health and social care sector, clinicians specifically the trauma care and rehabilitation space, as well as other third sector organisations, think tanks and commercial organisations connected to recovery after serious and life-changing injury.
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Play a significant role internally and externally in communicating the organisation’s policy position, raising organisational brand.
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Work closely with others in the SLT and ELT on developing our thought leadership and translating this into published blogs and comment pieces yourself and for others - disseminating our shared ideas, evidence base and compelling stories of impact and recovery.
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Working closely with the Director of Income and Engagement, you will support their team’s expertise and credibility, helping them to generate income though speaking engagements, campaigns and key storytelling pieces.
How to apply
Please upload your CV and supporting cover letter to Charity Jobs outlining why you’re interested in the role. Please take your time to explain how your experience is relevant to this post.
For more information, please refer to the attached recruitment pack.
Closing date: 15th May 2026
Interviews:
First stage virtual: w/c 25th May 2026
Second stage in-person (Leeds): w/c 1st June 2026
Inspired ‘by patients for patients’ our vision is that no one has to piece life back together on their own after catastrophic injury.



Keeping Young People Safe:
At Young Enterprise, safeguarding is at the core of everything we do. We are committed to promoting the welfare of children and vulnerable adults. All successful applicants will receive ongoing safeguarding training throughout their employment and be expected to uphold excellent safeguarding practice at all times.
Are you passionate about helping young people build brighter futures?
Are you curious about policy and public affairs and motivated by creating real-world change? If so, we’ve got a brilliant opportunity for you to join our team as our Policy and Public Affairs Officer at Young Enterprise.
Who We Are
We’re Young Enterprise – a national charity with a bold mission: to give every young person the skills, confidence, and mindset to thrive in the changing world of work.
For over 60 years, we’ve empowered more than 7 million young people through hands-on enterprise and financial education programmes. Whether it’s launching a student business or learning how to manage money, we help young people develop key life skills—teamwork, leadership, problem-solving, and resilience.
We’re a passionate, down-to-earth team of 90+ staff and 2,000+ volunteers who believe that every young person, regardless of background, deserves a fair start in life.
Why Join Us?
We think Young Enterprise is a great place to work—and we’re proud of our people-first culture. Here’s what you can expect:
- A friendly and supportive team where your voice is heard
- A strong commitment to diversity and inclusion—we want everyone to feel they belong
- Generous holiday allowance and flexible working
- Cycle-to-work scheme, life assurance, and NHS top-up plan
- Ongoing learning and mentoring opportunities
- A chance to directly impact the lives of young people every single day
About the Role
This is an exciting opportunity to join Young Enterprise at a key moment of growth and ambition for our policy and public affairs work. As Policy and Public Affairs Officer, you’ll help shape how we champion the voices and experiences of young people, ensuring their needs are reflected in decisions about education, skills and financial capability. Working closely with the Policy Lead and colleagues across the organisation, you’ll support the development of evidence-informed policy positions and contribute to impactful influencing and engagement activity.
This role is ideal for someone who is curious about how policy is made, enjoys working with ideas and evidence, and is motivated by the chance to create real-world change for young people. You’ll gain hands-on experience across research, stakeholder engagement, campaigns and parliamentary activity, in a fast-paced and supportive environment that values learning and collaboration.
If you’re passionate about social impact, enjoy writing and organising, and want to build a career in policy, public affairs or the charity sector, this role offers a fantastic platform to develop your skills while making a meaningful difference.
You’ll love this job if you are…
- Passionate about improving opportunities and outcomes for young people.
- Curious about policy, politics and public affairs, and keen to learn how change happens.
- A clear and confident writer who enjoys turning research and evidence into compelling messages.
- Organised, proactive and comfortable juggling multiple priorities in a fast-moving environment.
- Enjoy designing, organising and supporting engaging events for a range of audiences.
- Motivated by working collaboratively with a wide range of colleagues and external stakeholders.
Key Responsibilities
- Monitor developments in education, skills and related policy areas, identifying what they mean for young people and Young Enterprise’s work.
- Support the development of Young Enterprise’s policy positions through research, analysis and evidence gathering.
- Help plan and deliver public affairs and stakeholder engagement activities, including events, parliamentary briefings and meetings.
- Contribute to campaigns that aim to influence policy and raise the profile of issues affecting young people.
- Draft high-quality written outputs such as consultation responses, meeting notes, articles and social media content.
- Support policy networks and relationships, including Secretariat support for the APPG for Financial Education for Young People.
- Work closely with colleagues across programmes, research, communications and fundraising to align policy priorities and messaging.
- Coordinate the practical organisation of policy events, meetings and stakeholder communications.
A few practical things
- This is a hybrid role, with a minimum requirement to work from our London office in Brunswick Square at least 8 days per month.
- The role involves regular travel to Westminster for meetings and events, and occasional travel to other parts of the UK.
- Occasional evening and weekend work will be required for events, with time off in lieu provided.
- There are no specific physical or manual handling requirements associated with this role.
How to Apply
If you’re ready to help shape the futures of young people, we want to hear from you!
Please send your CV and a cover letter answering the three questions below. Applications that do not directly address these questions will not be considered. Applications must be submitted by 12:00 noon on 22 May 2026.
1.Interest in Young Enterprise (max 250 words)
What attracted you to Young Enterprise and the Policy and Public Affairs Officer role?
2.Experience and Achievements (max 250 words)
Tell us about your personal or professional achievements that you’re proud of which demonstrate your ability to:
a. organise an activity or event
b. manage competing priorities
c. support others
3.Skills for the Role (max 250 words)
What relevant or transferable skills and experience would you bring to this role?
Should your written application be successful, an optional informal call will be offered to discuss the role with and answer any questions you might have. Following this, an in-person interview will take place in Young Enterprise’s London Office week commencing 1 June 2026, which will include a short written task, and the potential for a follow up online interview with a few colleagues across the organisation. Please note, we are only able to respond to shortlisted candidates.
Full details can be found in the Job Description.
At YE we are passionate and committed to keeping your data safe and secure. Full details can be found in the YE People’s Privacy Notice.
Join us – and help us give every young person the chance to thrive. Apply today!
Applications that do not directly address these questions will not be considered.
If you require any reasonable adjustments, please let us know within your application.
We empower young people to discover, develop and celebrate their skills and potential.


The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
The Head of Strategic Communications will lead strategic communications at ECU, building on our track record of shaping media narratives around the economy and working across multiple campaigns and programmes.
As our Head of Strategic Communications, you will devise and deliver impactful communications strategies to shape the way the UK media covers economic policy. You’ll help ensure that UK media debates are grounded in robust and innovative economic thinking and rise to the scale and urgency of current societal challenges.
If you believe that media and public debate on economics could be improved - and if you have the strategic communications track record to make that happen - then we would like to hear from you.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
We are recruiting a fixed-term Policy Campaigns Manager to lead our campaigns function at ARUK. The Policy Campaigns Manager will report to the Senior Public Affairs and Campaigns Manager and have line management responsibilities for the Policy Campaigns Officer.
In this role you will be joining a friendly and fast-moving Policy and Public Affairs team, during an exciting year for dementia research as we campaign on our core mission for a cure. You will work closely with colleagues across the organisation to oversee our active campaigns and identify opportunities to mobilise our supporters and drive influence and impact for and with people affected by dementia.
You will lead the development of the campaigns function for ARUK, building on existing initiatives, championing best practice in campaigns and building our reach and engagement. You will also be responsible for working across a range of functions including our policy, research, communications, digital, brand and volunteering teams.
This is a 12 month FTC or on return of the substantive postholder
Key Responsibilities:
Deliver our live campaigns and marshal our campaigner base to advocate for change in dementia research and for people affected by dementia
· Work with colleagues across research, policy and public affairs teams to develop and deliver our campaigns that mobilise people affected by dementia and our supporters to influence decision makers and change policy and practice
· Work with the policy managers to ensure that our campaigns align with our strategic priorities and theories of change
· Work closely with public affairs colleagues to plan campaign actions that align with key political influencing moments e.g. Budget; Spending Review; King’s speech; General Elections
Develop and deliver our campaign communications to grow the reach, influence and impact of our campaigns
· Lead the development and growth of our campaigner network, building supporter journeys, and producing compelling and creative campaigner communications across email, social media and other channels
· Work with colleagues across CRM and digital to improve data management, delivering regular reporting on campaign actions and use this data to enhance the campaigner experience and empower more people to take action.
· Work with colleagues across the organisation to build campaigning expertise and experience with local ARUK supporters and improve our reach with MPs in their constituencies
Line Manage our Policy Campaigns Officer
· Oversee the work of the policy campaigns officer including setting objectives and providing support to a range of workstreams.
· Consider the learning and development needs of the policy campaigns officer and ensure that they are able to grow and develop in their role.
Involve people affected by dementia in campaigns development and delivery
· Identify campaign champions and storytellers with lived experience who can advocate for change
· Provide training and ongoing support to people with lived experience to empower them to take part in and shape our campaigns
Research, insight and continuous improvement
· Provide expert advice across the charity on campaigning, taking an open, flexible and innovative approach
· Develop mechanisms to keep abreast of best practice in campaigns and any legal or regulatory issues specifically around mental capacity and consent, data protection and lobbying etc
· Continue a campaigning culture across the organisation by being an ambassador for the benefits of campaigning and working with colleagues to showcase the opportunities and impact of our work.
Knowledge, skills and experience needed:
· Educated to A Level or equivalent
· Experience of delivering successful national campaigns
· Experience of building fruitful relationships with colleagues across organisations
· Experience of developing impactful campaign strategies with clear policy rationale and creative tactics
· Experience of writing compelling campaign communications
· Experience of working with campaigners
· Experience using CRM databases such as Raiser’s Edge and Salesforce and handling sensitive personal data
· Line Management experience
· Leadership experience at a management level
· Experience of matrix working, across professional and operational boundaries
Additional Information:
Ways of working:
As part of our Agile ways of working you will be required to work approximately 2 days a week from the office, which is subject to the requirements of the role and the business needs. Flexibility on where you work can be split between working from home and our office.
Roles that are classed as part of the Agile ways of working are not able to claim any costs for Mileage/Travel on Public Transport, Accommodation and/or Meals. This includes when attending the office for various meetings/events.
Our Office: Our office is at 3 Riverside, Granta Park, Great Abington, Cambridge, CB21 6AD.
Salary: Circa £44,000 per annum, plus benefits.
Please download the Vacancy Pack on our website for more information.
The closing date for applications is the 17th May 2026, with interviews being arranged once shortlisting has been completed. Please indicate in your covering letter if you are unable to attend an interview on a certain date. We would encourage you to submit your application at the earliest opportunity, as on occasion we may have to bring forward the interview date and/or the closing date based on the needs of the business. Although a possibility, this will only happen in exceptional circumstances. Please indicate in your covering letter if you are unable to attend an interview on a certain date.
We value diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive culture where everyone can be themselves and reach their full potential. We actively encourage applications from people of all backgrounds and cultures, particularly from those in the global majority, those with disabilities, men and those from the LGBTQIA+ community. Any offer of employment is however subject to you having the right to work in the UK.
As part of our commitment to being an inclusive employer and ensuring fairness and consistency in our selection process, we will handle your CV and application with the utmost confidentiality. Should you require any adjustments at either the application or interview stage, please contact us via our website.
How to apply: Please create an online account using our Online Recruitment Platform which can be accessed through our Job Vacancies page. You will be able to attach your CV to your application and track the status of your application.
About Alzheimer’s Research UK: Alzheimer's Research UK is the UK's leading dementia research charity. Our mission is to accelerate progress towards a cure. Today 1 in 2 people will be impacted by dementia, either through caring for a loved one, developing it themselves or tragically both. But there is hope.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Policy and Public Affairs Officer
Salary: £37,207–£42,070
Location: Hybrid, Cambridge
Application deadline: Friday 15 May (9:00AM)
We are looking for a Policy and Public Affairs Officer to lead and deliver the Foundation’s policy and influencing work to support evidence-based system change.
As part of our influencing team, you will drive the delivery of an influencing strategy and create strategic partnerships that have the potential to deliver regional and national impact.
You will work closely with senior colleagues, programme teams, and external partners to ensure that learning from the Foundation’s work informs national and regional policy debates. The role combines policy development and public affairs engagement, with the role holder representing the Foundation in external policy forums, as well as building partnerships across the sector, and positioning the Foundation’s research, evidence, and learning to inform public policy. This is an exciting opportunity for someone with experience in policy development and stakeholder engagement for system change, who is motivated by our charitable mission.
Person Specification
Experience
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Educated to degree level or equivalent.
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Experience of influencing Government and public policy in a comparable role.
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Demonstrable significant experience in parliamentary affairs and an excellent knowledge of the UK political landscape including the workings of Westminster, Whitehall, and regional Government.
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Demonstrable experience in developing and maintaining collaborations with a wide range of partners.
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Experience of developing policy positions and articulating these convincingly to decision makers and stakeholders.
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Experience of efficiently and accurately analysing complex information in a clear and concise manner for written materials and for different audiences.
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Experience of working productively across multi-disciplinary teams.
Knowledge
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Knowledge of methods used in public policy development and influencing.
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Knowledge of the structures of Government in the mayoral strategic authorities.
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An understanding of how structural inequalities impact on policy and political outcomes.
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Knowledge of Equity, Diversity and Inclusion principles and how to apply them in real world settings.
Personal skills/qualities
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Excellent interpersonal skills and the ability to interact effectively at all levels with partners and senior stakeholders including brokering new partnerships.
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Ability to drive the delivery of the influencing strategy and able to think laterally and creatively about opportunities.
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Outstanding written communication skills including the ability to write for different internal and external audiences.
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Excellent verbal communication skills, in order to be able to effectively communicate complex positions to policy makers and other stakeholders.
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Ability to develop policy positions and articulate these convincingly to decision makers and stakeholders.
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Ability to process large amounts of detailed information and present them in a succinct and persuasive manner.
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Ability to maintain political impartiality and be discreet.
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Self-motivated, with drive and commitment.
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Exceptional organisational skills, ability to keep to a clear timetable, work to tight deadlines and under pressure and an ability to work independently.
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Excellent facilitation and relationship management skills.
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Well-developed ICT skills, including word-processing, Excel and CRMs.
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A team player, able to work both on own initiative and in a collegiate manner.
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Commitment to the Foundation’s vision and mission.
The Foundation is committed to ensuring all staff are empowered to contribute fully to our work and the Foundation strives to ensure equity and fairness throughout the organisation. We support equality of opportunity and promote an inclusive culture.
We welcome applications from all backgrounds, across all protected characteristics and socio-economic status and particularly encourage submissions from those with lived experience of speaking another language.
We can only accept applications from those who have the right to work in the UK.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Location(s)
This position is open to candidates currently based in Scotland, in line with the role’s operational requirements. The role is home-based with in person attendance to our ‘All Staff Days’ in London (5 per year), team meetings (roughly 6 meetings per year) and occasional travel to other meetings and Westminster as required. Where possible, these are combined with an overnight stay.
London office: AdviceUK, 83 Victoria Street, London, SW1H 0HW
Job Title: Policy and External Affairs Manager (Scotland)
Employment Type: Part-time
Reporting to: Head of Policy, Programmes and Media
Pay scale: £40,000 - £42,500 Full time equivalent (Actual salary £32,000-34,000)
Interview: In person interviews will take place on Friday 22nd May at our London office
Working hours: 28 hours per week (4 days/0.8) within normal operating hours. Flexible working arrangements will be considered. (Normal operating hours are 8.00am - 6.30pm, Monday – Friday.) Lunch & other breaks are unpaid.
Special conditions: Some evening and weekend work may be required for which time off in lieu (TOIL) will be granted. Some travel will be required which may entail some overnight stays.
We are committed to diversity and inclusion and welcome applications from all backgrounds, particularly encouraging those from underrepresented groups.
CHARITY OVERVIEW
Since 1979, AdviceUK has been supporting advice organisations by helping them to be efficient, competent and effective, and by campaigning for a policy environment that supports advice agencies and people needing advice.
We are both a membership body and charity. We support our 700+ members (109 of which are located in Scotland) to provide advice to around 2 million people every year. We are working towards a world in which every individual, regardless of means, is able to access the advice they need to exercise their rights and deal with any legal and social welfare challenges they may face.
JOB PURPOSE
To set up and manage our policy and public affairs activities in Scotland ensuring AdviceUK has a strong voice, so we can secure policy change to benefit organisations delivering advice and the communities they serve. The post holder will be responsible for establishing AdviceUK’s first policy and influencing strategy for Scotland, including through developing policy solutions informed by strong evidence and rooted in member experience, and leading effective political and stakeholder engagement which will influence change. They will work closely with colleagues across the UK to join up policy, influencing and communications work.
KEY TASKS AND RESPONSIBILITIES
1.Strategy
1.1 Develop AdviceUK’s first policy and influencing strategy for Scotland, through consultation with members and stakeholders and analysis of the landscape and opportunities in Scottish policy making.
1.2 Put plans in place to roll out a specific programme of proactive and reactive policy work to further AdviceUK’s strategic aims in Scotland and represent the voices of Scottish members.
1.3 Devise measures to monitor the impact of our policy and influencing work in Scotland and report back to staff, trustees, members and stakeholders about the difference we are making.
2.Policy development
2.1 Collaborate with AdviceUK members, partners, sector stakeholders and
beneficiaries to develop clear, concise and authoritative policy positions on key issues.
2.2 Produce high-quality, well-argued policy materials based on data and evidence, including reports, select committee responses, evidence statements, briefings and responses to Scottish Government consultations.
2.3 Provide policy input for media statements, press releases and social media posts relating to Scotland, which are managed by the Press Officer and Digital Marketing Officer.
2.4 Develop an expert knowledge of policy issues affecting Advice UK members, keep up to date on the political and legislative environment and identify opportunities to use these to further Advice UK’s strategic objectives.
2.5 Represent AdviceUK at policy and/or sector meetings and events.
3. Public affairs
3.1 Roll out a programme of public affairs work including Scottish parliamentary engagement to promote AdviceUK’s strategic priorities.
3.2 Build and maintain effective relationships with stakeholders across the Scottish Government and parliament, local and decision makers, non-governmental bodies and other relevant stakeholders.
3.3 Champion an evidence based approach to all Advice UK’s advocacy and external relations work, drawing on research and member insight to inform our campaign messages.
3.4 Ensure regular opportunities for Advice UK members in Scotland to feed into our public affairs and advocacy work, and regular communications on our impact, to demonstrate how we amplify their voice.
3.5 Monitor and evaluate public affairs work, including collecting relevant metrics, to report back on our success and inform future campaigns.
4. Research and data
4.1 Work with Policy, Programme and Media (PPM) colleagues as well as the wider AdviceUK team to develop the evidence base needed to inform our policy and campaigns work in Scotland.
4.2 Work with the Research and Policy Analyst to carry out analysis that identifies emerging trends in the Scottish advice world and use this to provide evidence-based policy briefings and specific policy solutions.
5. General duties
5.1 Ensure you effectively communicate Advice UK’s vision, mission and objectives to staff, members and external stakeholders.
5.2 Ensure you demonstrate Advice UK’s values and behaviours in all aspects of your work
5.3 Build and maintain positive relationships with key stakeholders including staff trustees; members, partners and suppliers
5.4 With support from your manager, deliver your agreed personal objectives and undertake any agreed development or training
5.5 Maintain a strong understanding of our members and the advice sector more generally, by reading internal reports; accessing relevant data reports; following our social media channels and, where possible, attending member and other relevant events. With the agreement of you line manager, ensure you make time to speak to members and visit their services.
5.6 Adhere at all times to Advice UK’s policies and procedures
5.7 Carry out any reasonable duties compatible with the post assigned by your line manager
Our purpose is to improve the lives of people in need of advice. We do this by supporting our members, so it is easier for them to help their clients.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Using Anonymous Recruitment
This organisation is using Anonymous Recruitment to reduce bias in the first stages of the hiring process. Submit your application as normal and our system will anonymise it for you. Your personal information will be hidden until the recruiter contacts you.
Head of Public Affairs
Over the past 2 years, GuildHE has been transforming into the voice for distinctive higher education providers, building our brand on the principle that diversity is necessary for a healthy and vibrant higher education sector. We have a new look, a renewed energy, and a bold vision for the future of distinctive institutions. Now, we need the final piece of the puzzle: our first-ever Head of Public Affairs.
This is a landmark appointment for us. As a newly-created role following our recent rebranding, you’ll be building our external presence, taking our fresh identity and the work we’ve undertaken so far to the next level as we seek to double-down on our high-impact advocacy and engagement work.
As our inaugural Head of Public Affairs, you will have a unique mandate to shape the way GuildHE interacts with the world, where you can:
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Own the Narrative: Take our new brand and shape the 'GuildHE voice' across Westminster, the media, and the wider HE sector.
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Build the Blueprint: You will have the autonomy to design our engagement frameworks from scratch—working with the Director of Policy and Strategy to decide how we influence policy and how we best champion the value of specialist education.
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Create a Legacy: Because this is a brand-new headcount, every success will be yours to claim. You are here to build a function that will help define our influence for the next decade.
Who we’re looking for
We’re looking for someone who will champion diversity in higher education. From world-leading arts and agricultural institutions to large and distinctive HE providers who serve their students, industries and communities in innovative ways, you will find the common threads that bind our members and weave them into a compelling national story. You aren’t just representing institutions; you’re representing a vision of a more varied, vibrant educational landscape.
We’re looking for pioneers, who are energised by the phrase, “we haven’t done that before.” We’ve done the work on our look and feel—now we need you to provide the megaphone. If you’re a strategist who loves the 'start-up' energy of building and expanding functions within a respected, established body, we want to hear from you.
This this is the right job for you? Please send a cover letter explaining that to us (max 2 pgs) and a CV by the deadline.
Application closing date: May 22
Interviews: June 3-4
Please submit the cover letter (2 pg maximum) telling us why you're right for this job, and a CV.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
YHA is looking for an experienced and strategically minded Head of Communications and Engagement to lead how our story is told through a period of organisational change. This role owns our corporate narrative and shapes compelling communications that strengthen YHA’s voice and influence.
Working across the organisation and with external partners, you’ll develop and deliver integrated corporate communications that inspire engagement from staff and stakeholders, and ensure coherent and consistent messaging which amplifies YHA’s impact as a leading youth charity, social enterprise and force for good, and support income growth.
Why work for YHA?
Join our team and enjoy a range of exclusive staff benefits that support your well-being and career growth:
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10 nights free hostel stays per year for you and up to 3 friends or family
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Access to YHA’s staff discount and cash back portal
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Free YHA Membership each year
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Access to support via our Employee Assistance Program
There are many more benefits to working for YHA so please visit our website for more information.
What will you be doing as Head of Communications and Engagement?
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Own YHA’s corporate narrative, tone of voice and organisation‑wide communications strategy
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Lead integrated internal and external communications that strengthen brand, impact and income growth through a period of strategic transformation.
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Develop and deliver strategic messaging to support YHA’s organisational transformation and long‑term objectives
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Champion communications best practice across the organisation, working closely with the marketing team, digital team and senior leaders
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Plan, coordinate and oversee corporate content, publications and communications scheduling across all channels
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Line manage the Internal Communications Manager
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Lead on media relations and press engagement, including external agency support and spokespeople
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Strengthen YHA’s external presence, reputation and profile as a national youth charity and social enterprise
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Lead stakeholder engagement, partnerships, policy influence and horizon scanning for emerging risks and opportunities
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Manage crisis communications strategy and process
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Steward and leverage YHA’s heritage and archives to support impactful storytelling ahead of the 100‑year anniversary
What Skills and Experience do you need?
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Experience in communications, with a proven track record of developing and delivering strategic, organisation‑wide communications in a complex national organisation
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Strong ability to shape and communicate clear, compelling messages for diverse audiences across multiple internal and external channels
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Demonstrable experience of leading media relations, PR campaigns, stakeholder engagement and reputation management, including crisis communications
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High‑level writing, editing and content‑planning skills, with a creative and audience‑focused approach
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Ability to interpret complex organisational information and translate it into engaging, accessible and inspiring communications
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Experience influencing and advising senior leaders, bringing authority, constructive challenge and a cross‑organisational perspective
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Proven ability to identify reputational risks, anticipate emerging issues and recommend strategic communications responses
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Experience building productive partnerships and relationships with senior stakeholders, partner organisations, public bodies and agencies
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Strong organisational skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities, work to deadlines and find solutions under pressure
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Demonstration of our HEART values – they’re part of everything we do, and we look for people who bring them to life in their everyday work
For more information about the role and the skills and experience required, please refer to the job description.
At YHA, we understand the richness of life experiences, and we place just as much importance on lived experiences as we do on skills and knowledge. We provide a robust induction, ongoing training, and opportunities for personal growth. While certain roles may require specific skills, we welcome applicants from all backgrounds. For more information about how we are creating an inclusive workplace please visit our jobs website.
Who are YHA?
YHA is a social enterprise with a mission to enrich the lives of all, especially young people. YHA does this by providing brilliant hostel stays and experiences that improve physical health, mental wellbeing and life skills.
If you would like to find out more about YHA the charity, the culture, the heritage and so much more please visit our jobs website.
How do you apply?
Submit your CV and complete the application form. For more information about our recruitment process, visit the job website.
Once the hiring manager has reviewed your application we will contact shortlisted candidates. We aim to get in touch within a reasonable amount of time after the closing date. You can also check on the progress of your application if you have signed up to Connect - our online candidate portal
PLEASE NOTE All relevant checks are in place to ensure safeguarding and legal requirements of safer recruitment are adhered to. We do reserve the right to close this advertisement early if we receive a high volume of suitable applications.
Enrich the lives of all, especially young people, by providing brilliant hostel stays and experiences that improve physical health & mental wellbeing.
This is an exciting opportunity for a proactive and analytical policy professional to join our dynamic External Affairs team in The Royal College of Radiologists’ (RCR).
Our policy aims are simple: to enhance NHS systems, pathways and working conditions for RCR members so that they can provide optimum care to their patients. While the aims are simple, making it happen is less so. This is where the policy team come in. Good working relationships with the doctors and senior manager are key to the success of this role, establishing credibility and understanding how their needs from the frontline can be best met.
In this role the Policy Advisor will work with the wider team by actively monitoring and responding to the external environment to influence change. The Policy Advisor will lead the development of evidence-led policy development in priority influencing areas. The postholder will be confident collaborating with key decision makers, and responding to consultations from governments and regulators. Working closely with the Policy and Public Affairs Manager and other members of the external affairs team to provide advice and counsel to the College.
This is a great time to join the RCR team – with the exciting opportunity to build exposure and experience in public affairs, media and evidence.
What you’ll do:
- Gather, interpret and analyse information on policy areas relevant to RCR specialties, clinical oncology and clinical radiology
- Work with Officers, committee chairs, special interest groups and other doctors to ensure that our consultation responses reflect the expert views of the RCR’s membership
- Support the planning, development, delivery and review of policy projects, consultation responses and lines to take
- Support the building of relationships with external stakeholders, including opinion formers and decision-makers
- Crafting external policy content as requested including reports, briefings, web content and presentations
- Monitoring and responding to policy queries from members and stakeholders
What you’ll need:
- Good working knowledge of public policy, government and parliament across the four nations
- Experience of writing policy papers and positions
- Experience of responding to consultations
- Excellent interpersonal, verbal and written communication skills
- Ability to explain complex issues clearly in writing and orally, able to adapt style
- Ability to build good working relationships with different teams, working in a collaborative way
If you are looking for an opportunity to demonstrate your expertise and grow your skills in a charitable organisation with a great cause and ambitious goals then please find out more about the Policy Advisor role, the RCR and instructions on how to apply in our candidate pack.
Why join us:
- Make a difference to the lives of Doctors and medical specialties
- Hybrid working – up to 60% remote
- Modern working environment with home‑working equipment provided
- Generous annual leave, plus the option to buy up to 5 extra days
- Enhanced family‑friendly leave (maternity, paternity and adoption) for those with 2+ years continuous service
- Excellent pension scheme
- Sabbaticals (5+ years’ service) and secondment opportunities
- Interest‑free season ticket loan and cycle to work scheme
- Employee Assistance Programme
- Long service recognition awards
The Living Wage Foundation is seeking an experienced and driven Senior Media and Communications Manager to join our team for a 12-month contract. This is an exciting opportunity for a highly organised and proactive communications professional with a strong background in media relations, public messaging, and team leadership. The ideal candidate will be experienced and confident in working to tight deadlines, responding to last-minute changes, and prioritising competing demands in a high-profile environment. They will be motivated to amplify the Living Wage Foundation’s mission of tackling low pay and insecure work.
The postholder will lead all media, messaging, and external affairs work, developing and implementing a proactive media strategy that supports our mission and key campaigns, such as Living Wage Week and the annual Rates announcement. As a skilled media professional, you will oversee all communications outputs, ensuring consistency and strategic alignment, while delivering media training and refining key messaging to maximise reach and impact.
In this role, you will be instrumental in advancing our political engagement efforts, building cross-party support and working with political leaders, mayoral teams, and other key stakeholders to promote our initiatives. You’ll manage two direct reports (Events Manager and Media Manager) who each hold line management responsibilities, and you will play a critical role within our Senior Management Team, collaborating closely with the Head of Communications to shape the overall direction of our communications work. This role will work closely with Citizens UK colleagues, including the Citizens UK communications team on cross-organisational priorities. You will report to the Head of Communications.
As a senior leader, you will be responsible for managing and allocating part of the communications team budget, expanding team capacity, and driving the team’s effectiveness. In collaboration with other senior managers, you will help foster a culture that values creativity, innovation, and strategic impact.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
About The Role
As our Global Communications Manager, you’ll lead the development and delivery of impactful global media and communications that elevate Compassion’s campaigns and strengthen our international voice. You’ll play a pivotal role in producing compelling content, securing global media coverage, and supporting colleagues worldwide to deliver clear, impactful communications.
As our Global Communications Manager, you’ll be responsible for:
- Developing and delivering global media strategies that raise Compassion’s international profile.
- Identifying, creating and maximising media opportunities across campaigns and policy work.
- Building and maintaining strong relationships with global journalists and media outlets.
- Managing our work developing relationships with international high-profile supporters
- Writing and producing press releases, feature articles, media briefings and web content.
- Building our social media presence by developing creative content and feeding into the social media strategy
- Supporting and advising Country Office communications teams to ensure aligned international messaging.
- Supervising Global Communications Officers and contributing to planning and out‑of‑hours rota duties.
- Monitoring and evaluating global media coverage and managing external media monitoring and licensing partners.
- Managing Compassion’s media assets, including imagery and broadcast materials, to ensure accurate representation.
- Providing media training, guidance and interview preparation for colleagues and spokespeople.
About You
To succeed as our Global Communications Manager, you’ll combine strong editorial judgement with outstanding communication skills and the ability to lead global media activity under pressure. You’re strategic, adaptable, and skilled at storytelling, relationship‑building, and managing multiple projects with ease.
Skills and experience you’ll need to bring as our Global Communications Manager, you’ll be responsible for:
- Experience working in a fast‑paced press office, newsroom, or similar media environment
- Proven ability to develop and implement successful media strategies
- Experience working with international or European media outlets
- Excellent writing skills with the ability to tailor content for different audiences
- Strong ability to identify, shape and maximise media opportunities
- Ability to build and maintain strong media contacts and networks
- Experience working with high‑profile supporters or spokespeople
- Strong project management skills with exceptional attention to detail
- A collaborative, positive, and adaptable approach to working with global colleagues
- Commitment to Compassion’s mission and values.
If you don’t meet every requirement but believe you could thrive in this role, we encourage you to apply.
Why Join Us
This is a unique opportunity to use your communications expertise to drive global change and give a powerful voice to animals, people, and the planet.
We offer a supportive, flexible workplace with a strong focus on wellbeing and development, including:
- 25 days annual leave + bank holidays
- Health Cash Back Plan and 24/7 GP access
- Employee Assistance Programme and MHFA support
- Premium Calm App subscription
- Defined contribution pension scheme
- Enhanced discretionary sick pay
- Hybrid working model (role and location dependent)
- Free onsite parking and office next to mainline station
- Cycle Benefit scheme and other savings options
- Ongoing learning and development opportunities
How to Apply & Key Dates
If you’re ready to make a global impact, we’d love to hear from you. Please submit your CV and a cover letter outlining how you meet the Person Specification. To support a fair and unbiased recruitment process, we kindly ask that you do not include a photo in your CV.
Please note that we may begin interviews on a rolling basis, so early applications are encouraged.
Closing Date: Thursday 14 May 2026
Stage 1 (TEAMS) Interviews: Tuesday 19 May and Friday 22 May
Stage 2 (Face to Face at HQ) Interviews, with presentation task: Thursday 28 May 2026
“Join us in building a more compassionate future for animals, people, and the planet.”
As part of Stage 1 of our recruitment process, shortlisted candidates may receive a small set of pre-shared, values-based interview questions in advance. This is designed to support a positive candidate experience and help you prepare, so the interview can focus on a thoughtful conversation about your motivation and alignment with our mission.
If you require any adjustments during the recruitment process, please let us know, we’re always happy to support candidates during the recruitment process.
About Compassion
Compassion in World Farming International is a leading global organisation working to end factory farming. Founded in 1967 by British farmer Peter Roberts, we’ve spent over 50 years driving change, successfully campaigning to ban cruel practices such as barren battery cages, veal crates, and sow stalls across the UK and Europe.
Our work combines advocacy, campaigning, and collaboration with policymakers and businesses to promote animal welfare and sustainable food systems. We envision a future where animals are treated with compassion, and farming supports both people and the planet. To learn more about our mission, culture, and opportunities, please explore our Candidate Pack, and Careers Page.
To comply with legal requirements in the UK and internationally, all applicants must be able to demonstrate their right to work in the country where the role is based.
Compassion in World Farming is absolutely committed to providing equal opportunities for everyone regardless of their background. We value diversity and live experience and acknowledge the underrepresentation of people from certain backgrounds, both within our organisation and across the sector. We welcome applications from underrepresented groups, whether these be of ethnicity, gender, identity, religion, physical ability, sexual orientation or other.
If you’re ready to make a global impact, we’d love to hear from you. Please submit your CV and a cover letter outlining how you meet the Person Specification. To support a fair and unbiased recruitment process, we kindly ask that you do not include a photo in your CV.
Please note that we may begin interviews on a rolling basis, so early applications are encouraged
Compassion in World Farming International is a leading global organisation working to end factory farming.



The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
We are looking for a Director of Communications (External Relations)
We are looking for a communications leader to help us transform Nesta’s impact, reach and influence. We're already an ambitious, award-winning, multidisciplinary team, and now we're looking for someone to help us elevate our work to the next level.
The UK information environment is changing rapidly and our team is midway through a period of reform and transformation to adapt. We want to be industry-leading in the way we communicate - on the cutting edge of testing and experimenting with new formats and tactics, constantly iterating our practice in response to an information environment that is being constantly reshaped by AI, changing political communications and new technology. This is where you come in.
This role offers the mandate to experiment with a suite of high-impact products that are ready for their next stage of growth. You will play a central role in developing our new podcast, expanding our collection of data-driven stories, and testing long-form video as a way to translate deep research into compelling visual narratives. We care about micro communities as much as the traditional broadcast tools, and you’ll lead a stable of products designed to reach policy audiences. Alongside this, you will help to spearhead the advocacy and influencing activity that will deliver success in our three missions, and work more broadly to support BIT and all other parts of the Nesta Group.
You will blend exceptional political acumen with a proven track record of delivering policy and advocacy campaigns that have a tangible impact. You will be a trusted advisor, adept at providing strategic counsel across multidisciplinary teams while fostering an empowering, best-in-class culture. Beyond managing projects and campaigns, you will invest in our people, ensuring our talented team has the support and clarity to perform at their best.
We are looking for a leader who isn't satisfied with the status quo and is ready to take our collective impact to the next level. Five years into our strategy, Nesta’s ideas are gaining significant influence - now we need you to raise our reach and profile to the same level.
What you’ll be doing:
- Lead the design and delivery of integrated campaigns with policy and advocacy objectives, using the right mix of channels, the highest standards of creative execution and the most effective messaging. Support the team to navigate the UK political and news agenda, identifying and securing the most effective moments for our work to exert influence.
- Lead the full range of policy communications across Nesta (working with and beyond the communications team with missions, units, subject specialists and senior leaders to bring coherence to our content and activity). Lead on policy-facing products, from blogs to policy briefings, podcasts to newsletters.
- Oversee delivery of broader communications activity, working across the organisation to form project teams, set priorities and tactics. Elevate the quality of our external output so all of our communications meet a consistently high bar for excellence. Ensure that all of our activity is delivered with the right mix of creativity, professionalism and speed to maximise success.
- Distil complex policy and research into powerful narratives, ensuring our strategic messaging resonates and persuades target audiences and that is used consistently and coherently across all of our activity. Manage our suite of editorial products and ensure our content is sharp, timely, and directly aligned with our advocacy objectives.
- Provide authoritative communications strategic counsel across teams, acting as a trusted advisor to senior leaders on complex communication challenges and reputational issues
- Provide functional (direct) leadership of our policy communications, media relations and data journalism functions.
You will also work across all of the Communications department to:
- Drive forward new approaches to advocacy and influencing that organisations like Nesta need to adopt in response to the changing information environment
- Look across all activity being conducted and identify and act on opportunities for new content streams, activities or partnerships that support our strategic communications goals
- Spot opportunities to do more with our existing channels and campaigns, finding ways to extend their value and impact
- Troubleshoot and support where a project or campaign is at risk of failure, either because of differing views on execution, changing objectives, or missed deadlines
- Mentor and evolve a talented communications team, providing the leadership and vision necessary to take our collective impact to the next level.
What we’re looking for:
- Significant leadership experience in external affairs, communications, or press, specifically within an advocacy-focused environment.
- Exceptional strategic skills, with a history of delivering multi-channel campaigns that build genuine profile and influence.
- A deep understanding of the UK political and news agenda and wider information environment, with a demonstrated ability to navigate complex policy landscapes.
- The ability to provide high-level strategic counsel, acting as a trusted advisor to senior leaders on complex communication challenges and reputational issues.
- A genuine love of communications, with experience of exploring new approaches to advocacy and influencing that organisations like Nesta need to adopt in response to the changing information environment
- The ability to craft and embed strategic messaging that distills complex ideas into clear, authoritative narratives for diverse audiences.
- An accomplished writer who has successfully managed high-level editorial functions and maintained a high bar for content.
- Sharp media instincts and creative flair, with a proven ability to spot and shape stories that capture media interest.
- A grounded leader and people manager who knows how to motivate teams and cultivate a high-performing culture.
As with all members of the Nesta Group communications team, the postholder will also be at their best working in a collaborative, fast-paced environment, have a flexible approach and an appetite for taking on new tasks and challenges. They will also have excellent written and verbal communication skills and a proven ability to write for a range of different audiences.
What we offer:
Salary: £91,500 plus an array of benefits, including a generous pension scheme, private medical insurance, dental insurance, the ability to buy and sell annual leave, and more
Location: This role is based in Blackfriars, London, hybrid working arrangement with a minimum of two days in the office
Term: Permanent
Hours: This is a full-time role but we offer a range of flexible working arrangements and encourage our people to take advantage of them. Many do.
Reports to: Group Executive Director of Communications
Making an application
To apply for this role, please submit a CV and a cover letter that states three reasons why you are a great candidate for the role before 8:00am on the 27th of April 2026.
Interviews will take place w/c 4th of May 2026.
About Nesta
Nesta is a research and innovation foundation that designs, tests and scales solutions for the biggest challenges of our time.
Driven by a vision to improve the lives of millions of people, our focus up to 2030 is on three missions: breaking the link between family background and life chances, halving obesity and cutting household carbon emissions.
We work with partners across the public, private and third sectors to develop high-potential solutions and test them as they evolve, drawing on deep expertise in qualitative and quantitative research, data science, behavioural science and design.
Once confident in the effectiveness of a solution, we are relentless in the pursuit of scale. We create and make the case for ambitious national policy proposals, develop consumer-facing products and services, spin out and support commercial ventures and harness the power of the arts to shape national narratives.
We extend our impact through two specialised units that help others to solve complex problems and achieve their missions. BIT applies a deep understanding of human behaviour to help clients achieve their goals. Challenge Works designs and runs challenge prizes to spark innovation in science, technology and society.
Together, we are building a powerful ecosystem for innovation that delivers proven solutions to create lasting, positive change.
At Nesta, we believe that a diverse workforce leads to an organisation that is more innovative, more creative and gets better results.
We want our workforce to represent the diversity of the people and communities we serve. We also want our workplace to be one where different experiences, expertise and perspectives are valued, and where everyone is encouraged to grow and develop.
This means that when we are recruiting, we actively seek to reach a diverse pool of candidates. It also means that we are happy to consider any reasonable adjustments that potential employees may need to in order to be successful.
We recognise the importance of a good balance between work and home life, so we do everything we can to accommodate flexible working, including working from home, compressed or part-time hours, job shares and other arrangements.
Please just let us know in your application or at any stage throughout the process (and beyond) if these are options you’d like to explore.
Cystic Fibrosis Trust is the only UK-wide charity dedicated to uniting for a life unlimited for everyone affected by cystic fibrosis. We're working towards a brighter future for everyone with cystic fibrosis (CF) by funding cutting-edge research, driving up standards of care and supporting people with the condition and their loved ones every step of the way.
If you are passionate about driving change through policy and influencing and you want to play a pivotal role in improving the lives of people with cystic fibrosis (CF) join us as our next Policy and Public Affairs Manager and help shape a future where everyone with CF can access the treatments and care they need.
In this impactful role, you will lead the delivery of our policy and public affairs work across a defined portfolio, with a strong focus on ensuring people with CF have access to life-changing treatments and improving standards of care across the UK for people with CF – both now and in the future.
Working closely with the Head of Policy and Public Affairs, you will turn strategic priorities into compelling influencing plans and high-quality policy outputs. You’ll ensure our voice is heard where it matters most – across government, healthcare systems, and key stakeholders – to drive meaningful improvements in outcomes for people living with CF.
In this role, you will take ownership of:
- Leading the development of robust, evidence-based policy positions
- Designing and delivering effective public affairs and influencing strategies
- Building and managing relationships with key stakeholders and decision-makers
- Ensuring our work is grounded in the lived experiences of people with cystic fibrosis
You will also line manage one Policy and Public Affairs Officer.
This is an opportunity to combine strategic thinking with hands-on delivery, using your expertise to influence real change in a highly respected health charity.
If you are an experienced policy and public affairs professional with a passion for making a difference, we’d love to hear from you.
We offer a range of benefits including flexible working, 30 days annual leave plus recognised bank holidays, contributory pension scheme, healthcare cash plan, shopping discounts club, enhanced maternity/adoption pay, free tea and coffee in the office, employee assistance programme and opportunities for learning and development.
This is a UK based role and offers a flexible location; however, if London office-based, a minimum of 40% working hours per week in the office is required. If home-based, travel to London office will be required in line with business needs.
Please note you will need to have the right to work in the UK before starting work with us and we will check this. We do not hold a Home Office Sponsorship Licence and therefore cannot offer visa sponsorship for our roles.
Closing date and interview date
Closing date for completed applications: 11:59pm Monday 4th May 2026
Interviews expected week commencing w/c 11 May 2026
We reserve the right to bring forward or extend the closing date if necessary. Therefore, if you are interested in this role, please submit your application as early as possible.
How to apply
Before applying, please ensure you read the job description attached, for more information about the role.
Applications should be made through our recruitment portal Hireful and to apply, please select ‘Apply Now’.
No media or agencies please.
Our commitment to an inclusive workplace
Cystic Fibrosis Trust aims to be an inclusive workplace where everyone belongs, can be themselves and achieve their full potential. We want to attract, develop, and retain staff with different backgrounds, experiences and perspectives; particularly people who have cystic fibrosis, people who identify as being from an ethnic minority group, as LGBTQ and people with disabilities.
It is our policy not to discriminate against any person because of their age, gender reassignment, being married or in a civil partnership, being pregnant or on maternity leave, disability (physical and mental), race including colour, nationality, ethnic or national origin, religion or belief (including lack of belief), sex, sexual orientation or union membership.
REF-227 918
Senior Public Affairs and Policy Manager
London
£50,956 to £53,000
Working hours – full time (35 hours a week) - you’ll agree your working pattern with your manager (core working hours are 10:00 - 16:00).
Location – London and homeworking (minimum 6 days a month in the London office, anchor day in the office every Wednesday)
Purpose and scope
Are you looking for a policy role where you can make a difference? Our client is looking for a Senior Public Affairs and Policy Manager to grow their influence with government and in UK parliament to ensure the voice of physicians effectively influences the national policy agenda.
You’ll be part of the policy and campaigns team, responsible for ensuring they maintain its position as a credible, influential stakeholder in the eyes of government, NHS systems and their physician members.
You’ll join the organisation just as it publishes a new strategy and decides new areas of policy focus. You’ll play a critical role in developing and delivering the public affairs strategy to ensure that the organisation is an effective advocate for its members.
You will lead and manage our public affairs work, designing and delivering influencing strategies and contributing your expertise to policy development and campaign planning for a range of policy issues. You’ll maintain a proactive awareness of issues within the UK health sector, politics and the media and identify opportunities for influencing and policy development. You will have demonstrable experience of developing and delivering successful influencing strategies, using a range of parliamentary influencing tactics to achieve policy change.
You will lead and manage the organisation’s stakeholder engagement. You will ensure we have the right relationships at the right level to achieve our influencing aims and maintain a network of contacts across the sector, in parliament, including political advisers, and the civil service.
You will be as comfortable speaking to parliamentarians and briefing senior leaders for meetings as you are writing consultation responses and policy briefings. You will be able to engage with the policy detail, while appreciating the bigger political picture and the organisation's place in it.
You’ll need a sharp eye for detail and be able to quickly and accurately interpret and communicate complex information. You will provide the president, senior officers and senior staff with public affairs advice, brief them for meetings and play an active role in engaging external stakeholders in NHS systems and the wider sector yourself.
The policy and campaigns team – which is part of the wider communications, policy and research directorate – is a fast paced, collaborative and innovative environment. You will help us shape our objectives and continuously improve how we work.
Responsibilities
- Maintaining a proactive awareness of issues within the UK health sector, politics and the media and identifying opportunities for influencing and policy development
- Working proactively to identify opportunities for parliamentary engagement to grow the profile of the organisation.
- Building and owning relationships with Ministers Parliamentarians, their staff and civil servants, arms-length bodies and other sector stakeholders organisations relevant to their policy and campaigns aims.
- Providing public affairs advice to senior officers and staff, as well as their boards, committees and other activities as appropriate
- Managing a robust horizon scanning and political intelligence monitoring service to the senior officers, senior staff and the organisation as a whole.
- Owning a policy portfolio and developing proactive and reactive policy positions, working in partnership with senior officers, their members, communications colleagues and other staff and organisations.
- Working flexibly and proactively without close supervision, undertaking a range of work such as writing briefings, letters, policy positions and consultation responses.
- Working with the media team to develop our client's voice with communications approaches that ensure high impact for their influencing and campaigns work.
- Preparing senior officers and staff for stakeholder meetings, supporting them in those meetings and yourself representing the organisation at meetings and events.
- Managing an adviser and developing them to the best of their ability.
- Any other duties commensurate with your post, including deputising for the head of policy and campaigns and executive/deputy directors of communications, policy and research, and managing budgets.
Experience
You will
- a strong background in public affairs, policy development and effective influencing in Westminster and UK government
- significant experience of developing and delivering successful influencing campaigns and having used a range of public affairs tactics, including the media, to achieve policy change
- significant experience of the policy development process and understanding of how to influence national and/or arms-length body policy processes.
- excellent writing skills and experience of producing briefings, consultation responses and other communications on behalf of an organisation and senior people
- strong experience of giving advice to senior people, getting buy-in for your ideas and influencing opinion internally
- strong experience of successfully managing competing views, priorities and interests to achieve your aims.
- be able to quickly develop positive and effective working relationships with a diverse range of people, including those at senior level
- experience of successfully managing high profile issues, relationships and events
- acting on your own initiative to develop new work, proposing reasonable and realistic solutions
- understand the importance of and be committed to involving a diverse range of organisations and people in developing and delivering campaigns.
You may have experience of
- health and/or social care policy
- influencing the Senedd
- communications management
- working in a membership organisation and involving members in advocacy
- budget management
Closing date: 05 May 2026
Interviewing date: 18 May 2026
Our client positively encourages applications from suitably qualified and eligible candidates regardless of sex, race, disability, age, sexual orientation, transgender status, religion or belief, marital status or pregnancy and maternity.
Our client is all about their people – their members, staff, volunteers and leaders. They educate, influence and collaborate to improve health and healthcare for everyone and know they can only do this by being inclusive, encouraging and celebrating diverse perspectives. Welcoming into their community people who represent the 21st-century medical workforce and the diverse population of patients they serve is a priority for us.
Do you want to change the world for vulnerable children?
The Consortium of Voluntary Adoption Agencies UK (CVAA) aims to improve adoption policy and practice across the UK for the benefit of children, challenging the adoption system to deliver for children and work in their best interests. Alongside advocating for system change, CVAA works to support our member voluntary adoption agencies (VAAs) across the four nations of the UK, stimulating innovation and ensuring they stay at the leading edge of practice. The active engagement of members and the building of collaborative alliances with others who seek positive change for children are essential to the effectiveness of our work.
The Head of Policy is a vital member of the small CVAA team, working closely with the CEO and Board of Trustees to champion the voluntary adoption sector and put children at the heart of everything we do. Due to maternity leave we have an exceptional and unique opportunity for someone who shares our passion to change the world for children, to gain valuable experience working at national level with senior stakeholders to contribute to system change, advocating for the power of adoption to change lives.
You will need strong people skills, experience of developing policy in consultation with stakeholders and using data to transform services and strengthen lobbying work. Most of all you need a cast iron commitment to change the world for vulnerable children.
CVAA works to challenge discrimination and disadvantage and welcomes applications from all communities, particularly those who are underrepresented in our sector, which includes but is not limited to people from Global Majority backgrounds, adoptees, men and those who identify as LGBTQ.
Key information
- Maternity Cover 1 year from July 2026
- Location - remote contract with occasional travel
- £40 – 45K depending on experience
- An enhanced DBS check is required for this role.
Applications
Please send a CV and letter of application, outlining your motivation for applying and the skills you offer, to Satwinder Sandhu (CEO) by 5pm on Friday 8th May 2026.
Both Satwinder (CEO) and Alice (Director of Strategy and Policy) are happy to have an informal chat about the role. Please email to arrange a convenient time to speak.
Initial online interviews via Microsoft Teams will be on Monday 18th and Tuesday 19th May, with final in-person interviews scheduled for Thursday 28th May 2026 in London. Please let us know whether you cannot make any of these dates in your application.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.




