Head of Policy

Do you have experience in health or research policy development and advocacy? Great Ormond Street Hospital Charity are hiring a Head of Policy to develop our first ever policy and advocacy function. As Head of policy, you will be a key spokesperson for the charity and will ensure that we are using our brand and our voice to advocate for the needs of seriously ill children and their families at Great Ormond Street Hospital and beyond.  

Salary

The salary for this position is £72,000 per annum and we operate a hybrid working policy of a minimum of 2 days in the office per week.
 

In line with our EDI strategy and Total Reward policy, we calculate our salaries based on benchmarking data across the charity sector. To ensure fairness for existing staff and new joiners, we do not offer salaries above the advertised rate. 

Key Responsibilities

This is a varied position where you’ll be responsible for:

Strategic policy leadership 

• Developing and implementing a comprehensive policy agenda, in line with our high level strategy for advocacy. 
• Overseeing the development of position papers, key policy messaging and response to government consultations. 
• Identifying emerging policy trends, analysing potential impacts and developing responses. 

Creating and leading a team

• Recruiting and developing a small team.
• Owning the policy and advocacy budget and work plan. 

Relationship building

• Developing relationships with the Charity’s local partners at the Trust and Institute of Child Health (ICH) to ensure alignment and engagement on key policy & advocacy initiatives.
• Building relationships with key parliamentarians and policy makers. 
• Representing the charity at key political or government events. 

Please refer to the full job description for more information. 

Skills, Knowledge and Expertise

• Significant experience in policy development / strategic advocacy within a charitable organization, think tank, or public sector organisation.
• Previous success in shaping and influencing public policy.
• In-depth knowledge of the healthcare, research, paediatric care, or relevant public health policy landscape.
• Exceptional strategic and analytical thinking, with the ability to interpret complex policy issues and translate them into clear, actionable strategies.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, including public speaking, stakeholder management, and the capacity to engage effectively with diverse audiences.
• Leadership qualities with strong team management skills and the ability to foster collaboration across departments.
• Ability to work under pressure and manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.

Benefits

• 30 days annual leave (plus bank holidays)  
• A flexible approach to working arrangements.  
• Access to our enhanced pension scheme  
• Life assurance 
• Access to various health and wellbeing schemes, including the employee assistance programme.