Head of Research and Policy (maternity leave cover)

Job Description 

Lead research and policy projects 

You will lead our Research and Policy team and manage our research experts. This will include leading on existing and new projects from concept design to funder reporting, as well as conducting research in different areas of economic and social policy like social security, pensions, VAWG, labour market, social care, etc.  

Maintain and forge external partnerships 

You will maintain, identify and forge new collaborations with academics, feminist organisations and economics think tanks. 

Represent WBG at external events and to the media 

You will represent WBG in meetings with key stakeholders and speak at external events. You will also be a spokesperson for the press, radio and broadcast TV to promote WBG’s research and analysis. 

Contribute to our advocacy strategy 

You will work closely with our Communications and Public Affairs team to ensure our research outputs are relevant to our advocacy goals and that they are accessible to a wide range of audiences, including policymakers, politicians, journalists, and feminist campaigning organisations. 

Supervise our research and policy support programme 

In collaboration with our Head of Training and Capacity Building you will expand our programme of research and policy support for grassroots organisations in the UK and internationally. 

Manage a team and support its members 

You will be leading not only projects but also people. You will have experience of supporting, motivating and leading a team of people and supporting them to develop new skills and grow in their careers. This includes staff members and paid interns. 

Hours: 30 hours per week. We operate a shorter working week with 30 hours the equivalent of full time. We are happy to consider a secondment role and/or flexible working arrangements. Some out of hours working will be required for which TOIL will be given. 

Location: Must be resident in the UK with the right to work in the UK. Post is hybrid with requirement to be in the office at least once a week. Office is in Vauxhall, London. 

Duration: 10-month fixed-term contract. 

Line management: Reports to the Director, manages three staff members and any paid interns working in the Research and Policy team. 

Start date: Late May 2026 

Interviews will be held on w/c 13 April 2026.