Policy Manager

Drive the policy agenda for a high-profile, mission-led charity representing over 1,150 schools in the North East and a futher 400 specialist schools nationally. Influence education strategy and shape national debate from the heart of the North East.

Make a Difference with Schools North East

Schools North East is a dynamic, purpose-driven charity that champions the education sector across the North East. Representing a collaborative community of over 1,150 member schools, we are recognised nationally as the Voice advocating for North East schools, the Glue fostering collaboration, and the Bridge connecting education with the wider world. Now approaching our 20th year, we are entering an exciting new phase of development, strengthening our influence, expanding our reach, and enhancing the value we deliver to our members.

As Policy Manager, you will be a senior leader responsible for working with Directors to deliver our strategic policy and public affairs agenda. You will ensure alignment between policy, research, stakeholder engagement, and events, using evidence and insight to influence decision-makers at the highest levels. This is a pivotal, high-profile role requiring a dynamic, politically astute, and highly experienced strategic thinker with a deep understanding of how policy is shaped and implemented.

We are looking for a values-led leader who can anticipate long-term trends and align strategies with the organisation’s vision, taking account of the political, economic, and educational policy landscape. You will make bold yet considered decisions, taking calculated risks where appropriate, and responding promptly and effectively to critical events. You will lead by example, actively promoting SNE’s values and vision both internally and externally, and influencing our strategy, direction, and culture to increase organisational effectiveness.

You will bring a collaborative, resilient, and adaptable approach, fostering a culture of learning and development that helps your team grow and succeed, while sharing your own expertise to support others. With exceptional communication skills, you will engage stakeholders with purpose and conviction, and ensure that policy work is evidence-led, impactful, and aligned with member needs. This is an opportunity to join a respected and ambitious organisation at a key point in its journey – and to play a personal role in shaping its next chapter of success.

Salary:            Senior Leader Band 5 – £40,775–£52,196, depending on experience
Location:         Central Newcastle (with flexibility to work from home on Fridays)
Hours:             Full-time, 36 hours per week
Holidays:         30 days plus Bank Holidays
Travel:             Some regional and national travel, as required

Closing Date: 5pm Wednesday 27 August 2025
Interview Date: Tuesday 16 September 2025

Key Responsibilities

Organisational Leadership

• Contribute to the strategic leadership of Schools North East as a senior manager, ensuring policy work supports the organisation’s long-term mission and values.

Strategic Policy Leadership

• Lead the development and delivery of Schools North East’s policy agenda, ensuring it reflects member needs and is grounded in robust evidence.
• Anticipate and respond to emerging political and policy developments, both regionally and nationally.

Public Affairs & Influence

• Build and maintain high-level relationships between the organisation and government, political stakeholders, and sector influencers to maximise SNE’s influence.
• Represent Schools North East at external events, inquiries, and meetings, speaking with authority on behalf of our members.

Research & Intelligence

• Undertake research where appropriate to inform strategic priorities.
• Interpret and communicate external research to help support strategic priorities and inform policy work.
• Oversee the production of high-quality policy briefings, consultation responses, and position papers.

Campaign Leadership

• Design impactful campaigns that raise the profile of key education issues and strengthen SNE’s role as a thought leader.
• Ensure alignment between policy priorities and marketing/communications activity.

Stakeholder Engagement & Networks

• Develop stakeholder networks, forums, and roundtables to inform policy positions and enhance influence.

Team Leadership & Collaboration

• Lead and mentor direct reports, setting clear KPIs and fostering a culture of excellence, innovation, and collaboration.
• Work closely with the Directors, Business, Events and Marketing teams to ensure policy activity supports and enhances core functions.

Organisational Leadership

• Contribute to the strategic leadership of Schools North East as a senior manager, ensuring policy work supports the organisation’s long-term mission and values.