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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!
Nacro is seeking an experienced and dynamic Head of Policy & Public Affairs to lead our strategic policy development and influencing work with Government, officials, and other key decision-makers. This pivotal role will shape and deliver a high-impact policy and public affairs strategy that improves the lives of the people we support—those affected by the criminal justice system, housing insecurity, and barriers to education.
You will be Nacro’s senior voice in government spaces, the media, and across the public affairs landscape. You will ensure our policy positions are evidence-based, rooted in lived experience, and influential at the highest levels.
Key Responsibilities
Strategic Policy & Public Affairs
- Lead Nacro’s strategic policy and public affairs activity with Government, parliamentarians, officials, and other stakeholders.
- Develop and implement a compelling public affairs strategy that drives meaningful change.
- Build and maintain strong, productive relationships with senior policymakers.
- Represent Nacro externally, including with senior stakeholders and in the media.
- Oversee the development of evidence-based policy positions and research projects that support Nacro’s strategic objectives.
- Ensure service user experience informs all policy and influencing work.
- Produce and oversee high-quality policy outputs including consultation responses, briefings, reports, blogs, and media commentary.
- Safeguard Nacro’s reputation as a trusted and authoritative source of insight and expertise.
- Provide strategic political intelligence and advice to the Director of Engagement & Impact and the Chief Executive.
People Leadership
- Lead, motivate, and support a high-performing team, setting clear direction and expectations.
- Model Nacro’s values and behaviours, enabling a positive, inclusive, and accountable culture.
- Manage communication channels effectively, ensuring key organisational messages are understood and cascaded.
- Set objectives, monitor performance, and hold regular one-to-one meetings.
- Support professional development and wellbeing across the team while driving innovation and high standards.
- Take responsibility for all aspects of people management, including recruitment, conduct, performance, and attendance.
- Recognise, reward, and encourage excellent performance.
Leadership Across the Organisation
- Play an active role in the Senior Leadership Team, helping to drive organisational strategy.
- Operate both strategically and operationally, identifying opportunities and risks for Nacro.
Professional Expertise
- Significant senior-level experience in policy and public affairs.
- Strong track record of leading policy campaigns that delivered real impact.
- Excellent political awareness, judgement, and communication skills—both written and verbal.
- Knowledge of criminal justice, education, young people’s policy, or housing policy (desirable).
Performance & Compliance
- Set and deliver directorate performance targets, ensuring effective management of budgets and resources.
- Oversee health & safety responsibilities in your area.
- Contribute to business development and bid work in partnership with relevant teams.
- Ensure accurate and timely record-keeping and reporting.
- Promote and uphold Nacro’s values, safeguarding, data protection, and equality and diversity policies.
- Represent Nacro positively, building strong internal and external relationships.
Why Join Nacro?
We believe that everyone deserves a good education, a safe and secure place to live, the right to be heard, and the chance to start again, with support from someone on their side.
That’s why our housing, education, justice, and health and wellbeing services work alongside people to give them the support and skills they need to succeed. And it’s why we fight for their voices to be heard and campaign together to create lasting change.
We see your future, whatever the past.
If you are a strategic thinker, an influential communicator, and passionate about social justice—we want to hear from you.
Apply now to lead change where it matters most
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Thank you!
Circa £66,000 per annum
Permanent
Part home/Part office (London) based
UNICEF ensures more of the world’s children are vaccinated, educated and protected than any other organisation. We have done more to influence laws and policies to help protect children than anyone else. We get things done. And we’re not going to stop until the world is a safe place for all our children.
This is a great opportunity to join the UK Committee for UNICEF (UNICEF UK) as Head of UK Policy and Advocacy and shape and lead the direction of our child rights work in the UK.
In this role you will oversee our domestic/UK-facing child rights policy work with an overarching focus on improving early childhood outcomes and reducing disparities between children across the UK. You’ll be joining at an exciting time for the team as it develops the next phase of our cross-organisational Early Moments Matter campaign and deepens its policy influencing work through the production of new evidence, briefings and engagement across the sector and government departments. You will play an active role in the Advocacy Leadership Team, ensuring our work is underpinned by robust strategies and analysis, and is undertaken in a way that reflects our organisational values.
To succeed in this role, you will have an in-depth understanding and experience of policy-making processes and influencing strategies in the UK. You will have an excellent understanding of the policy context of child rights in the UK, and be able to translate that knowledge and expertise into support for team members to deliver ambitious change for children. You will be passionate about centering lived experience, and be able to lead the team in strengthening engagement of rightsholders in the development and delivery of our policy work.
Act now and visit the website via the apply button to apply online.
Closing date: 9am, Monday 19 January 2026.
Interview date: Week beginning 02 February 2026 via video conferencing (MS Teams).
In return, we offer:
· excellent pay and benefits (including flexible working, generous annual leave and pension, big brand discounts and wellbeing tools)
· outstanding training and learning opportunities and the support to flourish in your role
· impressive open plan office space and facilities on the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park
· an open culture and workplace with colleagues who share our values, enjoy their work and are motivated to do their utmost for children.
· the opportunity to work in a leading children’s organisation making a difference to children around the world
Our application process: We use a system called "Applied" that anonymises your responses and focuses on your actual skills that are relevant to this role. This benefits you by giving you a greater chance of expressing your skills in this objective selection process.
We are gradually moving back to our offices on the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park in Stratford, East London and we anticipate most colleagues will work one or two days a week in the office and the rest of the time from home. We will happily discuss other flexible options to suit your circumstances.
We particularly welcome applications from black, Asian and minority ethnic candidates, LGBTQ+ candidates, disabled candidates, and from men, because we would like to increase the representation of these groups at this level at UNICEF UK. We want to do this because we know greater diversity will lead to even greater results for children.
UNICEF UK promotes equality, diversity and inclusion in our workplace. We make employment decisions by matching business needs with skills and experience of candidates, irrespective of age, disability (including hidden disabilities), gender, gender identity or gender reassignment, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief, or sexual orientation.
We welcome a conversation about your flexible working requirements, personal growth, and promoting a workplace where you can be yourself and achieve success based only on your merit.
The successful candidate will be required to apply for a criminal records check. A criminal record will not necessarily bar you from working with us. This will depend on the nature of the role and the circumstances of your offences.
We only accept online applications as this saves us money, making more funds available for us to help ensure children’s rights.
If you require support in completing the online form or an application form in an alternative format, please contact the Supporter Care line during office hours.
If you do not hear from us within 14 days of the closing date, please assume your application has been unsuccessful on this occasion. Please note that we only provide feedback to shortlisted candidates.
Registered Charity Nos. 1072612 (England and Wales) SC043677 (Scotland)
Registered Charity
1 - 5
The UK Committee for UNICEF (UNICEF UK), a charity funded by supporters, raising funds for UNICEF’s work for children.
Thank you!
This is an exciting role leading our committed policy team leading the fight to end child poverty in the UK. The development and implementation of a UK-wide cross-government child poverty strategy means this is a great time to join CPAG as we look to influence policy makers to adopt our evidence-based policy solutions to child poverty.
We are looking for someone to take a lead role in developing evidence-based policy positions to support CPAG’s influencing and campaigns work. You will have knowledge of political processes and how external organisations can effect change. You will have a track record of producing high quality research and analysis, including policy briefings, on social policy issues. You will have experience of managing a small team and working collaboratively to identify policy issues and develop solutions with colleagues across the organisation, as well as externally.
The postholder will be working in a fast moving, high profile and complex policy environment and will need to balance short term priorities with long term objectives. Current priorities include influencing the implementation of the forthcoming child poverty strategy, gathering and sharing analysis and expertise with the DWP as part of their review of universal credit, and monitoring the development of forthcoming changes to disability benefits.
We welcome applications from individuals with the skills and experience outlined and we can be flexible about working arrangements. We operate a hybrid working system and would be happy to discuss any flexibilities required. CPAG is committed to equity, diversity and inclusion which you can read more about in the job pack.
We welcome applications on a secondment basis.
For more information about this post and to apply download the Head of Policy job pack.
If you have questions or need specific arrangements or reasonable adjustments to take part in the selection process, please contact us.
Closing date for applications: Sunday 4th January 2026 (midnight)
Interviews will take place: Tuesday 13th January 2026
Registered Charity
51 - 100
Child Poverty Action Group works to prevent and end child poverty – for good.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Thank you!
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!
The Head of Policy and Advocacy will lead the strategic development and delivery of MCF’s policy, advocacy and research agenda.Join the UK’s leading network for Muslim-led charities, strengthening the capacity, voice and impact of nearly 300 organisations.
Job role: Head of Policy and Advocacy
Employer: Muslim Charities Forum
Salary:£42,000 – 45,000 per annum
Hours: Full-time, 35 hours per week (4 days office-based, 1 day hybrid/remote)
Position: Fixed Term Contract, 3 years.
Location: London SE1.Nearest stations Waterloo, Lambeth North
Closing date for applications:16th December 2025, 5.00pm or until a suitable candidate is identified.
About Muslim Charities Forum (MCF)
Muslim Charities Forum (MCF) is the UK’s leading network for Muslim-led charities, strengthening the capacity, voice and impact of nearly 300 organisations. Guided by our pillars of Support, Connect and Represent, we champion excellence, transparency and social justice through resources, capacity-building, research and advocacy.
We work to tackle structural and funding barriers, influence government, policymakers and the wider sector, and build a more sustainable, equitable Muslim-led charitable landscape. Through strategic partnerships and collaborations, we drive systemic change and amplify the contributions of Muslim-led organisations across society.
Role Purpose
The Head of Policy and Advocacy will lead the strategic development and delivery of MCF’s policy, advocacy and research agenda. The role involves shaping long-term strategy, building a robust evidence base, influencing government and policymakers, and representing MCF at senior levels across the charity, public and political sectors.
The postholder will engage proactively with central and local government, devolved authorities, and regional mayors, ensuring that the voices and experiences of Muslim-led organisations are represented in policy development and decision-making.
They will work collaboratively with MCF’s Communications, Partnerships, and Systemic Change and Sector Capacity teams to ensure a coordinated and strategic approach that delivers sustainable, long-term impact.
Key Responsibilities
1. Strategy and Leadership
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Develop and deliver the next three-year Policy and Advocacy Strategy aligned with MCF’s organisational objectives.
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Provide strategic advice to the CEO, Senior Leadership Team, and Board on policy opportunities and risks.
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Lead and develop the Policy and Advocacy team, fostering a high-performing, inclusive and collaborative culture.
2. Policy, Research and Insight
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Monitor and analyse UK policy and regulatory developments affecting Muslim-led civil society.
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Oversee research, consultations and data-driven insight to inform MCF’s policy positions.
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Produce high-quality policy outputs, including reports, consultation responses and position statements.
3. Influencing and Stakeholder Engagement
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Lead MCF’s engagement with central government, local authorities, devolved administrations and regional mayors, as well as regulators and sector networks.
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Build and maintain strategic relationships with ministers, parliamentarians, senior officials, think tanks and sector leaders.
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Coordinate MCF’s public affairs activity, including roundtables, Select Committee and APPG engagement, and representation at high-level external forums.
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Strengthen MCF’s profile as a credible and influential voice for Muslim-led civil society across all tiers of government and the voluntary sector.
4. Sector Capacity and Member Support
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Engage MCF’s members and Muslim-led organisations in collective policy development and advocacy.
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Design and deliver tools, training and resources to build members’ influencing capacity.
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Identify and advocate for structural solutions to sector-wide challenges, including funding inequality, regulatory barriers and intersectional disadvantage.
5. Monitoring, Evaluation and Reporting
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Develop and implement frameworks to assess the effectiveness and impact of MCF’s policy and advocacy work.
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Provide regular progress reports to the CEO.
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Ensure compliance with charity law, lobbying and regulatory requirements.
Person Specification
Essential Criteria
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Significant experience (5+ years) in senior policy, advocacy or influencing roles within the UK charity or voluntary sector.
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Demonstrable success influencing government at national, local or devolved levels, achieving measurable policy or funding change.
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Strong understanding of the UK charity policy, funding and regulatory environment.
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Knowledge of the UK Muslim-led and/or faith-based civil society landscape.
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Experience amplifying marginalised voices and embedding lived experience into policy and advocacy work.
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Proven ability to lead teams and deliver organisational strategy.
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Excellent analytical, written and verbal communication skills, with strong political acumen.
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Commitment to social justice, equity and strengthening Muslim-led civil society.
Desirable Criteria
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Experience working with Muslim-led, faith-based or minority-led organisations.
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Understanding of intersectionality and its impact on underrepresented communities.
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Experience of research collaboration with academic institutions or think tanks.
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Proven track record in building partnerships for policy or advocacy initiatives.
Values and Behaviours
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Strategic and forward-thinking leadership.
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Collaborative and inclusive approach to diverse stakeholders.
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Resilience and adaptability in complex, fast-changing environments.
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Integrity and credibility in representing MCF and the wider sector.
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Strong commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion.
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Excellent communication skills, particularly in amplifying underrepresented voices.
Additional Information
This is a senior leadership position. Occasional evening or parliamentary activities may be required, along with UK-wide travel.
What We Offer
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The opportunity to lead impactful change within one of the UK’s most dynamic faith-based networks.
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A collaborative, inclusive, and supportive working environment.
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Opportunities for professional growth, leadership, and innovation.
Application Information
To apply, please send a CV (no more than 2 pages) and a covering letter (max 1,000 words) explaining how you meet the essential criteria and your motivation and suitability for the post.
We are an equal opportunities employer. We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds and are particularly keen to hear from candidates with lived experience of marginalisation and an understanding of Islamic ethos.
We reserve the right to withdraw this role once a suitable candidate is identified.
If you have not heard from us concerning your application within 6 weeks, please assume your application has been unsuccessful.
Interviews: Initial online short interview (stage 1), face-to-face in-office interview (stage 2).
No agencies.
UK residents only.Sponsorship is not possible for this post. References will be taken up prior to appointment including relevant ID checks.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.