Head of Policy

Please Note: We are unable to accept applications via external sites and email. Please apply via our website.

Are you ready to shape the future of student life through bold, evidence-based policy in one the UK’s most exciting student cities?

We are looking for a strategic and collaborative Head of Policy to lead our policy development and advocacy work, ensuring students’ voices are heard and acted upon across the university, city, and national platforms.

As Head of Policy, you’ll lead the development of student-led, evidence-informed policy work that reflects the lived experiences of our diverse student body. You’ll monitor developments across the higher education sector, local government, and Westminster, and produce compelling outputs that influence decision-makers and drive change.

Reporting to the Associate Director of Student Influence, the Head of Policy will play a key role in shaping our strategic external engagement, supporting elected student leaders, and building strong relationships with stakeholders across the university and beyond.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the creation of influential policy briefings, consultation responses, and reports

• Monitor and respond to policy developments affecting students and students’ unions

• Translate complex ideas into persuasive communications for a range of audiences

• Build relationships with university departments, local government, and sector bodies

• Support the development of policy skills across the organisation

• Align policy work across democratic outputs, insight, student campaigns and staff expertise

Essential Criteria

We welcome applicants from all educational backgrounds. You’ll need to demonstrate:

• Proven experience in policy development and advocacy

• Excellent writing and analytical skills

• Strong stakeholder engagement and relationship-building abilities

• Experience in people management and team leadership

• Ability to work in a fast-paced, evolving environment

• Passion for student issues and a commitment to inclusivity and transparency

Why Join Us

• Great staff benefits 

• Hybrid working options

• Clear progression pathways through our graded role structure

• A supportive, inclusive, and values-driven workplace

Please read the full role profile before applying, as well as our guide to recruitment.