Senior Policy And Public Affairs Officer Jobs
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as the applications come in. Don’t miss your opportunity, apply now!
About the role
At a time of growth and of new opportunities for the Motability Foundation, we are looking for a Public Affairs Manager to join our Communications Team and lead our Public Affairs activity for the organisation.
Our vision is to fund, support, research, and innovate, so all disabled people can make the journeys they choose. There are an estimated 16 million disabled people in the UK, and this role will play a crucial part in our work to raise awareness of the work of the Motability Foundation, amplify the voices of disabled people and to influence policy.
·This new role will work alongside our new Evidence and Policy Manager, based in our Innovation team, and other colleagues across the organization as well as key partners (Motability Operations), to manage our horizon scanning and monitoring of the political landscape, leading on advising our Governors, CEO and senior management team on actions we need to take, and preparing detailed briefings for engagements, and events with Parliamentarians and senior Ministers. The role holder will develop, implement and lead our Public Affairs and Government Engagement Plan, and proactively identify and develop opportunities to influence and shape policy where it may have a positive impact for disabled people.
With a General Election and potential welfare reform on the horizon, this role is especially important and experience in creating and implementing post-election public affairs strategies, leading activities across the team and devising and managing structured results reporting to the organisation, is highly desirable.
What you will be doing
- Develop, implement and manage our public affairs strategy, leading on public affairs activities aligned with the Motability Foundation’s vision and overall strategy.
- Amplify the Motability Foundation’s voice in Parliament, across the devolved nations, and in political spheres, building, developing and managing relationships with parliamentarians, decision-makers and stakeholders.
- Manage our horizon scanning and monitoring of the political, legislative and regulatory landscape in relation to the work of the Motability Foundation, leading on advising the business on actions we need to take.
- Provide sharp political intelligence, insight, advice and briefings for Governors, directors, senior management and a variety of audiences across the organization.
- Support the establishment of the Motability Foundation’s policy positions and delivering our influencing objectives.
- Manage a contact program for Parliamentarians, raising awareness of the work of the Motability Foundation, establishing regular meetings for senior leaders where relevant, and facilitating dialogue on issues relevant to our work.
- Working closely with the Evidence and Policy Manager to manage the dissemination of any policy output for presentation to the external world.
Your experience
Must haves:
- Strong grasp of parliamentary processes in Westminster, Scotland and the other devolved nations.
- Ability to initiate and manage projects independently while contributing effectively to team efforts.
- Experience in proactively identifying opportunities to influence.
- Strong communication skills, with an ability to grasp complex issues quickly and share information in an accessible way across a variety of audiences.
- Ability to facilitate sensitive internal and stakeholder conversations to reach a point of consensus.
- Ability to engage effectively with stakeholders in Government, industry, and other charities and foundations.
- Experience of operating effectively in a complex environment with multiple agendas and stakeholders.
- Highly IT literate with extensive experience of Microsoft Office, particularly Excel and PowerPoint.
Nice to haves:
- Understanding of key disability and transport issues, such as the social model of disability, inclusive micro mobility and the transition to electric vehicles.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
The successful candidate will work with the Head of the Gambling Action Lab (GAL) and the Senior Research Officer to bring together a handful of representatives from financial services firms to explore ways to reduce gambling-related financial harms. They will build and maintain stakeholder relationships and play a key role in facilitating group discussions with financial services representatives. This exciting role will also involve driving and promoting the work and visibility of the GAL, and planning and delivering a programme of events to promote our work.
This is an exciting time to join the organisation. We are a growing team, and with momentum building to address gambling-related harms, our work has never been so vital. In this position, you will play an important role in helping us to further understand the links between money, mental health problems and gambling harms and work with firms and stakeholders to develop practical solutions that lead to real change.
The full-time equivalent salary is either £41,283 at the Senior Officer level or £32,915 at the Officer level.
This role can be offered as London-based or remote (with twice-monthly travel to the London office) and either full-time (37.5 hours over 5 days) or part-time (minimum 30 hours over 4 days a week).
The closing date is 9am Monday 20 May.
We welcome candidates who have lived experiences of mental health problems, gambling harms or financial difficulty.
We are working hard to create an organisation where Equity, Diversity, Inclusion and Belonging are baked into our culture. We welcome applications from everyone, regardless of age, gender, identity, race, class, sexuality, disability or any other characteristic. What’s important isn’t your level of education or the opportunities you have had – it’s about you and how you seize the opportunities ahead of you.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
This exciting Senior Policy & Public Affairs Officer (Scotland) role will manage a portfolio of policy and influencing activities and play a significant role developing the Foundation’s policy and public affairs work in Scotland. This is an opportunity to join one of the UK’s leading charities and deliver social change by addressing the root causes of mental health problems and improving the mental health of people in Scotland.
What does the role involve?
- Developing and sustaining relationships with valuable decision-makers, influencers and allies
- Developing and implementing impactful influencing plans
- Providing policy intelligence and analysis and writing evidence-based submissions, policy reports, position papers, briefings and blogs
- Engaging with people with lived experience
What skills, knowledge and experience are we looking for?
- Ability to shape and lead policy programmes professionally and strategically, working with others
- Skill in building strong relationships with relevant external stakeholders including senior officials, elected representatives, people with experience of mental health problems and people who experience inequity
- Experience of working in a public policy role, with experience of a range of policy and public affairs approaches and work
- Knowledge of public health and/or mental health policy or a related field
Safeguarding is Everyone’s business – Mental Health Foundation is committed to safeguarding and promoting the wellbeing of all its beneficiaries, those who surround them, its staff, volunteers, and anyone else who comes into contact with its services and expects all trustees, staff, and volunteers to share this commitment. The successful applicant will be subject to appropriate vetting procedures (proof of eligibility to work in the UK, proof of residency and satisfactory employment screening, including a Disclosure check and two most recent references) along with 3-year renewals of Disclosure checks. We are unable to provide sponsorship for this post, you must be able to demonstrate your eligibility to work in the UK.
How to apply
If you think your skills match and you’d like to be part of a dynamic and growing organisation, please complete and submit your application via our website. Please ensure you attach an up to date CV and statement of suitability answering all points of the person specification.
Applications will close at 5pm on Wednesday, 1 May and we are unable to accept late applications.
Interviews are planned for Wednesday, 15th May and you will be asked to deliver a presentation on the day of the interview.
We believe our people should represent the communities, organisations and individuals we work with. Diversity and inclusion is a strategic priority for us as an employer and mental health charity, and we are proud to be signatories of the Business in the Community Race at Work Charter and the Disability Confident Committed Scheme. Applications from under-represented sections of the community are actively encouraged.
If you have a disability, require any additional support or have any questions regarding the role, please contact us. We make reasonable adjustments throughout the recruitment process and during employment. Disabled candidates who meet all the essential person specification criteria will be offered an interview. Therefore, please do ensure you tick the relevant box on the application form and clearly indicate in your application/covering letter if you consider yourself to meet the requirements of the Equality Act 2010 / Disability Discrimination Act 1995.
The interview for this position will be held face-to-face in Glasgow. We have moved to a hybrid working model of 2 days per week in the office and the rest working from home.
We look forward to hearing from you!
Job Title: Senior Policy and Public Affairs Officer
Reports to: Policy Manager
Line reports: None
Contract terms: Full time
Salary: £36,065-£37,013
Location: London-based, with hybrid working
The Royal College of Ophthalmologists is a membership organisation and the voice of the profession, with over 4,000 members in the UK and overseas. Our role is to champion the specialty, set standards of training and practice, and influence change to make a difference to the lives of patients with eye conditions.
Job purpose
Part of the Communications and Engagement department, the Senior Policy and Public Affairs Officer is responsible for developing and implementing strategic policy initiatives and engaging with key stakeholders to advance our policy priorities across the four UK nations. Working with colleagues, members and external stakeholders, you will deliver high quality analysis and research, produce evidence-based policy positions and outputs, and employ effective public affairs approaches to influence change on behalf of our members.
Main responsibilities
Strategic planning and reporting
- Contribute to developing, implementing and evaluating policy and public affairs (PPA) strategies, campaigns and plans aligned to member priorities and our wider strategic aims.
- Lead and manage the delivery of specific PPA workstreams, working in partnership with other organisations as needed.
- Monitor and report on performance against organisational and departmental objectives.
Policy development
- Monitor and analyse the external policy, political and parliamentary landscape across the four UK nations to identify influencing opportunities and relevant developments – summarising these for internal audiences.
- Contribute to the design and analysis of member surveys, drafting reports and presenting findings to inform the College’s policy agenda.
- Work with colleagues to research and draft evidence-based policy positions, consultation responses and briefings for politicians, civil servants, NHS and other key decision makers.
- Maintain an accurate evidence library of data and information to support the development of policy.
- Provide policy-related support to relevant committees to enable their effective contribution to the College’s work, including ensuring agreed actions are implemented.
Public affairs
- Build new and strengthen existing relationships with policymakers, government officials, clinicians and other relevant stakeholders across the four UK nations to advance the College’s policy objectives and maintain a thought leadership position within the eye health sector.
- Draft briefings and presentations to support events and senior-level meetings with politicians, civil servants, NHS and other key decision makers.
- Arrange and represent (as appropriate) the College at events, conferences and external stakeholder meetings.
- Build and maintain the College’s stakeholder database, tracking progress and advising on how to engage with different stakeholders.
Communications
- Work closely with the communications team to support the delivery of communications strategies and plans, ensuring the accuracy of policy information contained in College outputs and contributing to our press activities, member magazine, newsletters and website as required.
- Draft, implement and evaluate the impact of strategic engagement plans for policy publications.
- Support the communication of College policy positions internally, including by proposing lines to take for inclusion in our messaging house and assisting in briefing colleagues and volunteers – including the Chief Executive and President – on these.
To undertake other duties as required
- Undertake any other reasonable duties as required by the College.
- Working outside normal hours and/or overnight stays may be necessary to support the delivery of key organisational events.
Inclusion and diversity statement
The College is committed to encouraging inclusion, equity and diversity among our staff, and eliminating unlawful discrimination, harassment and victimisation by complying with the Equality Act 2010. We want a working environment where individual differences and the contributions of all staff are recognised and valued. To do this, we will proactively tackle discrimination and disadvantage and ensure that no individual or group is directly or indirectly discriminated against for any reason. We expect all employees to champion and live our values through their work at every opportunity.
Our values
Inclusion
- actively welcoming a diversity of experiences and perspectives
- everyone being respected and encouraged to participate regardless of their background or role
Integrity
- being open and honest, demonstrating accountability in all its work
- evidenced-based and transparent decision-making, utilising a range of data, information, expertise and experience
Innovation
- creating novel opportunities to advance and deliver on its aims, anticipating changing circumstances
- actively welcoming fresh ideas and approaches
- fostering a climate of ambition and excellence drawing on expertise from across the College’s communities
Improvement
- being a learning organisation, reflecting on both successes and mistakes
- continuous and sustainable development across all its activities
Person specification
Knowledge, qualifications and experience
- University degree or professional qualification in a relevant field such as public policy, political science, public health or similar
- At least three years’ experience of working in a policy, public affairs or advocacy role, preferably within the healthcare sector or a membership organisation
- Experience of devising developing, implementing and evaluating policy/public affairs strategies and/or campaigns
- Experience managing projects and initiatives from conception to implementation
- Experience of conducting policy-relevant research and developing evidence-based policy positions and consultation responses
- Experience of drafting high-quality, accessible briefings, reports, and other written materials for diverse audiences, including policymakers, healthcare professionals, and the public
- Experience of engaging with government agencies, policymakers, and other stakeholders to influence policy outcomes
- Working knowledge of IT systems – including Microsoft Office and CRMs
Skills and abilities
- Strong strategic planning, prioritisation and organisational skills
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to convey complex ideas and nuanced points clearly and persuasively
- Excellent analytical skills with the ability to research, analyse, and interpret complex qualitative and quantitative data to inform policy positions and advocacy efforts
- Proven ability to critically evaluate policy proposals, legislation and other publications and assess their potential implications for the College and our members
- Strong interpersonal skills and a demonstrated ability to build and maintain positive relationships with internal and external stakeholders, including government officials
- Ability to generate new ideas, take initiative and problem solve
- Adaptability and an ability to work well under pressure and manage often conflicting demands within tight timeframes
Personal qualities (attributes)
- Commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion and understanding of how this applies to own area of work
- Commitment to own continuing professional development
- Demonstrates a positive ‘can do’ attitude
Staff benefits
We offer a friendly and supportive working environment and make sure our employees are well looked after with a great benefits package, which includes:
Work life balance and family friendly benefits
- Hybrid working
- 25 days of annual leave, increasing to 30 days with length of service (plus bank holidays and office closure between Christmas and New Year)
- One day of paid leave to move house
- Enhanced parental leave
Planning for your future
- Employer pension contributions up to a maximum of 12%
- Life assurance of 4x of base salary
Career development
- All staff are offered opportunities for learning and development, in addition to a comprehensive e-learning package
- Study loans
Travel
- Season ticket loan
- Cycle to work scheme
Wellbeing
- Summer Fridays (staff can finish 90 minutes early from 17th July – 31st August)
- Enhanced Employee Assistance Programme (with access to free counselling sessions)
- Health Cash Plan
How to apply
Please submit your CV (maximum two pages) and a covering letter (maximum one page). The cover letter must explain what makes you suitable for the role. Please use the job description for reference.
Interviews will be held at our office in Euston, the week commencing 3 June 2024. Please indicate if you are likely to need any reasonable adjustments to successfully complete this interview.
Applicants must already have the right to work within the UK without restriction. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
The closing date for applications is 27 May 2024.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
We are looking for an experienced and passionate Senior Public Affairs Officer to work as part of our Policy & Influencing Team.
Imagine being part of an organisation whose common purpose is to help those who are severely impacted by mental illness. We believe that everyone should be treated with respect and dignity – and that’s why equity is one of our core values. We draw on the expertise, unique perspectives and lived experience of our people – regardless of who they are or their background – to help us become inclusive and anti-racist employer, campaigning organisation and service provider that reflect the diverse communities we support as a mental health charity.
Job Summary
Rethink Mental Illness exists to improve the lives of people severely affected by mental illness. With a general election expected this year, followed by a new government, this is arguably the most crucial window for influencing policy on mental illness in the last decade.
As Senior Public Affairs and Stakeholder Officer, you will play a vital role in helping Rethink Mental Illness bring about policy improvements for people severely affected by mental illness, supporting our influencing and relationship building work with political stakeholders, and aiding our work planning for and influencing a new government.
You will be working closely with colleagues in the wider Policy and Influencing Team, Communications and Campaigns Team, and Chief Executives’ Office. And you will work particularly closely with the Public Affairs and Stakeholder Manager on devising and implementing influencing activity, including writing briefings and submissions for political audiences, developing election content, creativity utilising the All Party Parliamentary Group for Mental Health to create change, and drafting letters and correspondence to external stakeholders.
You will have some experience working in public affairs or politics, including an understanding of parliamentary processes and the political landscape in Westminster. You will be working with a range of internal and external stakeholders and will be able to build relationships and work proactively.
Your areas of work will involve both planned work but also a degree of fluidity with the need to adapt and develop according to priority as circumstances change and opportunities to influence are identified. Existing knowledge of the health sector is not required but would be a bonus.
You will predominantly be working with the following people and teams:
- Policy and Influencing Team
- Policy and Practice Team
- Communications and Campaigns
- Chief Executives’ Office
Person Specification
- Experience working in a public affairs and/or politics. This could be in a public sector, charity, think tank, or agency role, or for an MP.
- Experience of working with government and/or parliamentarians. Demonstratable record of being proactive with work and problem-solving independently.
- Familiarity with government, parliamentary and legislative processes.
- Good in-person stakeholder management and interpersonal skills, including when meeting parliamentarians, political staffers and other stakeholders in the sector, such as charity partners.
- Ability to work on creative, external-facing influencing campaigns that may involve working with parliamentarians or the media
- Ability to engage with people who have lived experience of relevant policy areas
- Ability to work collaboratively with different teams, including representing the public affairs function to other teams independently.
- Excellent persuasive communication skills in writing and in person
- Good attention to detail.
- Strong organisational skills and ability to prioritise workload demands. An understanding of Rethink Mental Illness and its organisational aims.
Desirable but not essential
- A good knowledge of the health and social care policy environment
- Experience at organising events
Interviews are scheduled to take place on 8th and 9th May
*Appointments are typically made near the bottom of the pay range
*London Allowance is paid for roles that are based within the Greater London area only.
We do reserve the right to close this advertisement early if we receive a high volume of suitable applications.
Please see further details on our website
You can also follow us on Facebook / Twitter / Instagram and LinkedIn to find out more about the work we do!
Don’t meet all requirements?
If the role sounds exciting to you but your experience, skills or qualifications don’t exactly match every single requirement, we still encourage you to apply, you may be just the right person for our position!
Caring for our people.
We offer a wide range of support. Some of our benefits include:
- PULSE: our recognition, rewards, wellbeing, and benefits platform. Providing access to thousands of discounts and benefits including cashback; reloadable cards; savings etc. As well as being able to thank colleagues and nominate them for awards.
- Wagestream: gives you instant access to up to 50% of your pay. Also provides a library of expert tools, tips and articles plus, helps you start building a rainy-day pot straight from your salary.
- Wellbeing support: our Wellbeing hub gives physical, emotional, and mental health support. We also have a BUPA Employee Assistance Programme with access to appointments.
- Taking time for you: we work flexibly –you get to choose where you work, managing your own diary. We have generous annual leave, starting at 25 rising to 30 days, plus bank holidays, as well as your birthday off. We also offer the opportunity to buy and sell annual leave.
- Planning for the future: We have a contributory pension scheme.
- Structured Corporate Induction: Onboarding you into the Charity supporting your wellbeing along the way.
- £300 when you introduce a Friend: receive up to £300 when you introduce a friend or family member.
Who are we?
We’re Rethink Mental Illness, a leading charity provider of mental health services in England. We support thousands of people through our groups, services, policy, campaigns and advice and information. Our work supports us in delivering on our mission: “A better life for everyone severely affected by mental illness.”
It is an exciting time to join our growing charity. We are on a transformation journey, one that supports the delivery of the organisation strategy – delivering Communities that Care. Supporting employees, managers and leaders through this change is a key priority for the People function. Just like its key that we attract diverse people to come and work for us.
Diversity, Equity, Inclusion
Diversity is important to us and we appreciate difference through difference, inclusiveness and belonging. It gives us a deeper understanding of the world, our society and the diverse communities we’re working with. By including everyone, we are able to draw on the unique experiences and expertise of our people to help shape and enrich our workplace and improve our services. One way we are doing is through our valued staff networks which play a critical and highly valued role in keeping us focused on creating a diverse, inclusive and engaged employer. We recognise and support staff networks for our Black, Asian and minority ethnic and our LGBTQIA+ colleagues. We are also proud to have been awarded Disability Confident Employer status and are a signatory to the Business in the Community Race at Work Charter.
Becoming a truly anti-racist organisation
We have an ambition of become a truly anti-racist employer, campaigning organisation and service provider - and in our efforts to influence policy and wider societal factors impacting on mental health set out in our anti-racist statement . We have designed a multi-year anti-racist programme of work contained in our Race Equality Action Plan which demonstrate our intention to hold ourselves accountable and be judged on our progress on becoming a truly anti-racist organisation.
We therefore actively encourage and welcome applications from everyone, including applicants with lived experience, those who are Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer (or questioning), Intersex and (asexual) (LGBTQIA+), people with a disability, and people from Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic (BAME) backgrounds.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
England’s National Parks represent our finest landscapes, famed for their spectacular beauty, varied wildlife and rich cultural heritage. National Parks are critical to supporting local communities, providing access to green spaces for the nation, and helping to tackle the dual challenges of climate change and declining biodiversity.
National Parks England’s purpose is to be the collective voice for English National Park Authorities, helping us to achieve our purposes through influencing policy.
The Policy and Public Affairs Manager will be an experienced public affairs professional with a passion for nature and understanding of National Parks.
The successful applicant will join our senior management team, managing the Policy and Public Affairs team and work with the Executive Director to help develop and drive the NPE policy and public affairs strategy, working closely with stakeholders in our member National Parks and the wider Protected Landscapes family.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as the applications come in. Don’t miss your opportunity, apply now!
Are you passionate about making a difference? Do you thrive in a dynamic environment where your voice can shape policy and bring about change? Join our team at the Motor Neurone Disease (MND) Association as a Senior Public Affairs Adviser: Westminster. This role is pivotal in ensuring everyone impacted by MND receives the care and support they deserve.
You'll work closely with the Public Affairs Manager to drive forward our public affairs priorities and pro-actively identify opportunities to influence party political debates, legislation and select committees in relation to the Association's vital work. From drafting impactful briefings to building relationships with decision-makers, you'll be at the forefront of our advocacy efforts.
Ensuring a coordinated approach to our parliamentary work at Westminster and locally, your responsibilities include supporting parliamentary inquiries, coordinating our presence at political conferences. You will identify and develop effective links with key parliamentarians, influencers, and decision makers whose remit may impact the sphere of our work, including, senior civil servants.
Additionally, you'll help empower our campaigning volunteers and regional staff to engage with local decision-makers effectively. Your role will also contribute to shaping our strategies and plans, ensuring that our advocacy efforts remain impactful and aligned with our purpose, mission and 5 promises.
Located in London, with flexibility for hybrid working, this role offers an exciting opportunity to drive positive change in the lives of those affected by MND.
If you're ready to use your expertise to make a real difference, we want to hear from you. Join us to drive positive change for people living with and affected by MND.
Hybrid Working Expectations: Flexibility to attend the London office when required to meet business needs.
What are we looking for?
A thorough understanding of parliamentary processes and procedures, with previous experience in public affairs within a voluntary organisation.
Experience of working with Parliamentarians. You should also demonstrate proficiency in supporting volunteers and coordinating events.
Excellent communication skills are paramount, allowing you to interact and influence with stakeholders and diverse audiences across all levels including politicians and volunteers. As a team player and networker, you'll thrive in collaborative environments.
Additionally, strong IT skills, including database management and use of social media, is vital.
Flexibility for occasional evening and weekend work, as well as travel to external meetings, is required.
For full role responsibilities please view the job description located within the Recruitment Pack.
Our Benefits
- 28 days holiday, rising to 33 days after 5 years' service, plus Bank Holidays
- Access to UK Healthcare which includes reimbursement for dental appointments, eyecare, Health & Wellbeing screening and therapies
- Access to a 24/7 phone and video GP Service
- Life assurance
- Confidential counselling helplines
- Salary sacrifice schemes to include:
- Cycle to work
- Buy and sell annual leave
- BenefitHub which offers lifestyle discounts and offers on everyday shopping
- Enhanced pension scheme
- Opportunities for training and personal development
- Hybrid working
How to apply
Please submit a CV and supporting statement. Your supporting statement should be no longer than one side of A4 and demonstrate how you meet the following areas of the role.
- A thorough understanding of parliamentary processes and procedures.
- Demonstrable public affairs experience within a voluntary organisation.
- Experience of working with Parliamentarians.
Where experience is asked for, please give one example showing what you did and what it achieved. Where we require evidence of ability, please explain either how you would approach that particular competence or give an example to support your suitability.
About Us
Our vision is a world free from MND. Our mission is to improve care and support for people with MND, their families and carers. We fund and promote research that leads to new understanding and treatments and brings us closer to a cure for MND. The Association also campaigns and raises awareness so the needs of people with MND, and everyone who cares for them, are recognised, and addressed by wider society.
We are committed to equality and value diversity. We are working hard to remove perceived and actual barriers to participation for people with and affected by MND, current and future staff, volunteers, and stakeholders.
We guarantee interviews for disabled applicants that meet the requirements of the role as part of our commitment to the Disability Confident Scheme. Reasonable adjustments can be made as required.
Important Information
Adverts may be closed before the deadline once sufficient applications are received. To avoid disappointment, please apply early.
We request that recruitment agencies do not contact us in relation to this role.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Do you have experience of working in the UK Parliament, in an in-house public affairs team or within a public affairs consultancy? Are you looking to drive change to help tackle one of the UK’s biggest killers?
If so, you may be the Public Affairs Officer we’re looking for!
About the role
Our Policy and Public Affairs team exists to build support amongst key decision makers so that we can fund lifesaving research into heart disease. We develop the British Heart Foundation’s (BHF) position, engaging and influencing stakeholders to help ensure the UK remains a global leader in heart and circulatory research while advocating for the 7.6 million people living with heart and circulatory diseases across the UK.
We have an exciting opportunity for a Public Affairs Officer to join our award winning and high impact team during a very exciting time in politics. You’ll be engaging with Parliamentarians to promote our work at Westminster and in their individual constituencies, while proactively spotting opportunities to build relationships and advance the interests of BHF. You’ll deliver a programme of activity and engagement that contributes to our wider Hearts Need More campaign, which aims to make heart and circulatory diseases a key priority for political parties ahead of the next general election.
Working arrangements
This is a blended role, where your work will be dual located between your home and our London office.
At BHF we believe in the power of being together, so our colleagues on blended contracts can expect to spend some time in their office, at least one day each week, on average. The use of our office spaces is driven in part by your role and the activities you need to do. This may vary from time to time, so you will need to work in a flexible way to unlock your best work for our cause.
Need more help balancing your work and home life? Talk to us about what flexibility is available at the application or interview stage.
About you
With an interest in, and understanding of the external political environment, you'll have a good understanding of the workings of the UK Government and parliamentary procedure. You'll have an understanding of the role of BHF and other health and medical research charities in general, and particularly in the political arena.
You'll have experience of working in the UK Parliament or within a public affairs in-house team or consultancy, and have excellent communication skills. Having previously engaged with political stakeholders, you'll be able to build strong relationships with key internal and external colleagues.
With a proven ability to write clearly, concisely and persuasively for political audiences in a variety of formats, you’ll be able to summarise complex information swiftly and accurately for a variety of audiences. You'll also have strong organisational skills, including experience of coordinating events.
This is an opportunity to make a profound impact for our patients, their families, and our supporters at an exciting time in the electoral cycle.
About us
We value and respect every individual’s unique contribution, celebrate diversity, and make inclusion part of what we do every day.
Our Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) Strategy, Igniting Change, along with our internal EDI group, Kaleidoscope, and a growing number of employee network groups (our Affinity Groups), help us create an environment where all our colleagues and volunteers can succeed.
Interview process
Interviews will be held virtually via MS Teams during week commencing 20th May 2024
How to apply
It’s quick and easy to apply for a role at the BHF. Just click on the apply button below. All you’ll need is an up to date CV and a supporting statement, outlining your interest in the role and how you meet the role’s criteria.
Early application is encouraged as we will review applications throughout the advertising period and reserve the right to close the advert early.
As part of our commitment to be an inclusive employer and ensure fairness and consistency in selecting the best candidate for this role, the BHF will use anonymous CV software as part of the application journey.
Should you need any adjustments to the recruitment process, at either application or interview, please contact us.
Role Summary
As the Director of Research and Public Affairs you lead a team working across the full range of research work (including commissioning, grant-making and in-house research) and public affairs work (including policy analysis, advocacy work and mobilising our activists). You also contribute to the charity’s strategies, leadership and governance as a member of the Executive Team. Ultimately, your role is to generate new knowledge; and communicate knowledge, ideas and emotions to change hearts and minds, creating tangible reductions in alcohol harm across the UK.
Key Tasks and Responsibilities
Leadership, strategy & planning
1. Lead the research and public affairs functions at Alcohol Change UK.
2. Produce and deliver plans across our research and public affairs work programmes that are ambitious for change (impact), realistic given our resources, and consistent with our strategy, our other work programmes, and our values.
3. Set budgets, tightly control costs and identify opportunities for making savings, growing income and making the case for investment.
4. Appropriately monitor and evaluate our research and public affairs work with a view to knowing, growing and showing the impact we make.
Research
5. Work closely with the CEO, Policy and Research Manager, R&P sub-committee and Wales Office to determine and oversee the charity’s programme of commissioned research, research grants, and in-house research.
6. Ensure that all research is designed with impact-in-mind and, once complete, that it delivers on that impact through active and ongoing communication of the findings to the right audiences with the right messages through the right channels.
7. Lead the research function to be the central hub for the charity on the topic of alcohol harm and its solutions, staying on top of new research.
8. Influence the research spending of other agencies (e.g. NIHR) with a view to maximising funding into alcohol research in general.
Public Affairs
9. Lead and manage the charity’s public affairs activity, deploying the CEO, Research & Policy Officer and other staff as a team.
10. Lead our work with external alliances, such as the Alcohol Health Alliance and the Alcohol and Families Alliance, and on the APPG on Alcohol Harm.
11. Develop excellent relationships with Parliamentarians, civil servants, charities and other important institutional actors in our field.
12. Build Campaigner journeys for our engagement audience to best mobilise them to help us with our influencing work.
13. Lead on the commissioning and management of any external public affairs agencies, parliamentary monitoring services and similar suppliers.
14. Ensure our policy positions are kept up-to-date, based on emerging evidence and contemporary thinking, and consistent with our principles.
15. Work closely with the Director of Engagement and Fundraising to effectively mobilise and deploy our activists, Community Champions and other supporters so they (i) make a difference, (ii) become better informed over time, and (iii) remain motivated to campaign for our cause.
16. Work closely with the Director of Marketing and Communications to influence all forms of media to better support our desired outcomes.
Team Leadership and Management
17. Lead and manage the research and public affairs team(s), ensuring excellent line management.
18. Lead the process of recruiting and inducting new team members, as appropriate.
19. Proactively develop your own skills and experience as well as those of staff within your team.
Cross-organisational Role
20. Act as a spokesperson for the charity at high profile events and across media, including radio and TV.
21. Be an active and positive member of the charity’s Executive Team.
22. Work with colleagues across the charity to support their work and to act as ‘one team’.
23. Work particularly closely with colleagues in the Wales office, optimising opportunities for joint working.
24. Contribute actively and positively to the development of charity-wide strategies and activity.
Other Duties
25. Continually develop your knowledge of alcohol harm and solutions to it.
26. Act as a positive ambassador for Alcohol Change UK at all times.
27. Know, embrace and actively uphold the values of Alcohol Change UK at all times.
Other reasonable duties at the request of the CEO.
We are Alcohol Change UK. We work for a society that is free from the harm caused by alcohol.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Public Affairs Senior Coordinator
Location: South West London (Central Office is based in Mortlake – 12 mins from Clapham Junction and 23 mins from Waterloo)
Contract: Permanent/Full time
Salary: £32,000 per annum
Hours: 35 hours per week. Happy to talk about flexible working such as part-time working or flexible working hours. Some out-of-hours work will be required
ABOUT US
Somebody goes missing in the UK every 90 seconds. Missing People exists to ease the heartache experienced by those missing someone, and to help people who are away from home find their way back to safety. Our vision is for every missing child, adult and family left behind to find help, hope and a safe way to reconnect. We are a non-judgemental, highly skilled team of staff and volunteers working for everyone who needs us. We provide free, confidential support, help and advice by phone, email, text and live chat.
We coordinate a UK-wide network of people, businesses and media to join the search for the estimated 170,000 people who go missing each year. Missing People is an independent charity that relies on donations.
ABOUT THE ROLE
Missing People’s Policy and Research Team is a small team with a big impact, both within the charity and externally. We aim to create local, regional and national change in the response to missing people. We work in an evidence-based way, centring the experiences of those who have been or are affected by missing. As the Senior Public Affairs Coordinator you will be innovative in finding ways to engage and motivate a wide range of policymakers and politicians to better understand the issues affecting missing people and to make positive change for everyone we support. You will become an expert in the issue of missing, including the risks that cause people to go and the harm they experience while away. You represent issues facing some of the most marginalised and vulnerable communities
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ABOUT YOU
• You will have previous experience of working in public affairs or a related role;
• building and maintaining relationships with politicians or other policy-makers, including quickly building rapport and establishing trust;
• engaging people in complex issues and motivating them to take action;
• You will have an understanding of political systems across the UK and how to influence policy within those systems;
• knowledge of missing or linked issues, for example, mental health, children living in care, exploitation, homelessness, or children and adult social care;
• Proven ability to communicate complex information in a clear and/or simplified manner to different audiences, including some information that might challenge existing perceptions and perspectives
WORKING FOR MISSING PEOPLE
Would you like to work for a welcoming, caring organisation which really makes a difference to vulnerable people throughout the UK?
Missing People is a friendly and supportive place to work. Working for Missing People means living our values. It’s a place where people are encouraged to ‘let fly’ so you can ‘make things happen’. We know you’re more than just a job title, and ‘be human’ is an important value here. You will find plenty of scope for personal development including: getting involved in cross-charity projects; leadership development or volunteer supervision; training; e-learning; and hearing about the latest topics from some of our amazing partners. We offer a range of enhanced family-friendly benefits
Benefits
Missing People is 14th on the Sunday Times “100 Best Not-for-profit Organisations to Work for” List 2019 and offers the below benefits: • 28 days annual leave per annum/pro rata plus statutory holidays on appointment. Additional annual leave days awarded on length of service* • Company pension contribution • Life insurance (3 x salary)* • Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) including 24/7 support helpline • Interest-free Season Ticket Loans* • Additional maternity pay and leave* •Additional paternity pay* • Additional sick pay* *available after probation period passed
You may have experience as a relations Manager, Public Relations Coordinator, External Affairs Coordinator, Policy Advocacy Coordinator, Community Engagement Specialist, Stakeholder Relations Manager, Public Affairs Officer, Government Affairs Coordinator, or Corporate Affairs.
REF-213238
Reports to: Policy and Research Manager
Direct reports: None
Location:Our well-equipped office is in Kings Cross, London, WC1X 9NW. We encourage staff to work where they wish, at home or in the office, within the limits of the role and taking into account personal circumstances. This role will generally be expected to attend the office at least once a week and will have meetings at other locations in London fairly frequently.
Status:Permanent
Hours:Full-time
Salary:£31,437 to £34,659; plus benefits
Role Summary
This position provides key support for the policy and research functions of the charity, in addition to collaborating on campaigns and public affairs work. You will be responsible for carrying out primary research relevant to the charity’s policy and research functions. You’ll be monitoring and collating new policy and research materials and contributing to public communications including report-writing, blog posts and social media activity. You’ll be providing input into strategic planning regarding policy and research activities. You’ll connect with researchers and policy people from other charities and from universities. Finally, you’ll be attending conferences and meetings on behalf of the charity.
Key Tasks and Responsibilities
Policy
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Support the P&RM, DR&PA and CEO in responding to public consultations, advising policymakers and working with national policy and research bodies as appropriate.
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Represent the charity in meetings with policy partners where appropriate.
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Attend policy and research conferences on behalf of the charity, providing feedback to the team on key learning and opportunities that arise.
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Work with the SC&PA and DR&PA to draw up influencing strategies to target key stakeholders on policy priorities.
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Monitor external research that helps our policy work and opportunities for collaboration.
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Work with the SC&PA to engage campaigners in our policy work.
Research
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Work with the P&RM to carry out research activities relevant to the policy and research functions of the charity; including collating and analysing data, and co-authoring reports for both internal and public purposes.
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Work with the P&RM and the Communications and Marketing teams to produce engaging and accessible communication of research findings for a range of audiences.
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Monitor and collate new policy and research materials, including research reports, policy documents and media activity. Work with the P&RM to produce internal reports where appropriate and to ensure the charity’s activities reflect and respond to the wider policy and research environment.
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Work with the P&RM on external research projects funded by the charity, including support with assessing the quality of bids by external researchers.
Across both areas
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Produce social media communications where relevant to policy and research. Work with colleagues across the Research and Public Affairs and Communications and Marketing teams to develop strategies for maximising impact, especially in digital communications.
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Contribute to strategic planning by contributing to staff meetings, producing supporting materials and providing feedback on public affairs.
The postholder will also be expected to:
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attend training courses and develop skills as required, sharing learning with other staff as relevant
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in unusual circumstances, work weekend and / or evening hours, for which time in lieu will be given
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undertake other reasonable work as requested by the P&RM.
We are Alcohol Change UK. We work for a society that is free from the harm caused by alcohol.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Head of Campaigns and Public Affairs (maternity cover)
· Maternity cover
· Salary £58,807 per annum
· Full time (37.5 hours)
· Flexible working options will be supported.
· Central London Office and Hybrid working
We offer a pension scheme with employer contribution up to 10%, in addition you’ll receive 28 days holiday plus bank holidays, 24-hour access to a comprehensive employee assistance programme, cycle to work scheme and season ticket loan scheme and other benefits.
About the role
We are looking for a confident, senior Public Affairs and Campaigns professional to lead a programme of relationship building and to develop and deliver parliamentary and campaign strategies to bring about changes in policy, practice, and attitudes across our wide range of target audiences.
The Head of Public Affairs and Campaigns will be crucial in helping us to strategically build relationships with advocates and champions for our work in Westminster and Whitehall, across key industry bodies, sectors and networks and at a local and national level. This includes overseeing our programme of events and working with colleagues across the organisation to develop and deliver high-quality campaigns that effectively build support for the changes we want to see.
This is a hands-on role that will work seamlessly with the Head of Communications and colleagues across the wider organisation to plan and deliver a powerful, coherent, and integrated communications and influencing function. The successful candidate will be proactive and tenacious in horizon-scanning and seeking out opportunities where we can most effectively influence the work of others. You will also be responsible for developing and co-ordinating policy positions and approaches that are attractive and actionable and achieve buy-in and support from others.
You will line manage three individuals and have dotted line oversight of the work of Communications & Campaigns Officers in our Action Areas, as well as general responsibility and oversight – along with the Head of Communications – for the work of the wider Communications Team and influencing activity across the organisation more broadly.
You will be a proven collaborator who is able to demonstrate a strong commitment to Ageing Better’s vision, mission and values.
About you
- You’re a senior public affairs and campaigns practitioner with a strong track record of influencing change in previous roles
- You will have excellent knowledge of UK Government and Parliament, how policy change happens and how to develop effective advocacy strategies to achieve change.
- You’re highly motivated and a team player, able to take the lead in managing issues and external relationships, while providing briefings and support to senior colleagues on others.
About us
The Centre for Ageing Better is a charitable foundation funded by The National Lottery Community Fund and part of the government’s What Works Network
Everyone has the right to a good life as they get older and our whole society benefits when people are able to age well. But far too many people face huge barriers, and as a result are living in bad housing, dealing with poverty and poor health and made to feel invisible in their communities and society.
The Centre for Ageing Better is pioneering ways to make ageing better a reality for everyone. Its key areas of work include challenging ageism and building a nationwide Age-friendly Movement, creating Age-friendly Employment and Age-friendly Homes.
We are striving to create an organisation that reflects our society and the communities we serve. A workplace where everyone feels empowered and where diversity of background and thought is celebrated. We know there is more work to be done and are committed to continuing to improve our practice around Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion.
We very much welcome applications from minority groups and those underrepresented in our workforce. This especially includes people from Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic backgrounds, LGBT+ people, and Disabled people.
We are a Positive Action employer, therefore in recruitment where two candidates are ‘as qualified as’ each other, we will favour a candidate from any group identified as currently underrepresented in our team based on protected characteristics as outlined in the Equality Act 2010.
The closing date for this role is 11:59pm on 15th May, with in- person interviews to take place during week commencing 27 May.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
England’s National Parks represent our finest landscapes, famed for their spectacular beauty, varied wildlife and rich cultural heritage. National Parks are critical to supporting local communities, providing access to green spaces for the nation, and helping to tackle the dual challenges of climate change and declining biodiversity.
National Parks England’s purpose is to be the collective voice for English National Park Authorities, helping us to achieve our purposes through influencing policy. We are a small team, working with a much wider team of colleagues across National Park Authorities.
As Senior Media and Communications Officer within NPE you will support a range of the policy and influencing work of National Park Authorities for a range of campaigns and projects including our work on Generation Green and the Protected Landscapes Partnership.
You will work alongside the wider team to ensure effective communication through the media to influence public opinion and political change. As well as high quality media relations, the post will support delivery of public relations activities, and support wider public affairs and stakeholder relations.
The successful candidate will have excellent media, public relations and integrated communications skills gained within a policy and influencing environment and will be confident to play both lead and supporting roles on a wide range of projects. They will have excellent writing and editing skills, an understanding of what makes media worthy content, and experience of building relationships with journalists. The post holder should also have experience of as supporting stakeholder engagement with those in and around government and in working with a range of project partners.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Policy Officer
(UK wide)
£28,831 per annum (pro rata for part time hours)
(Ref: SUS4232)
Full Time 37.5 hours per week – happy to talk flexible working
Base: Sustrans offices, home based or hybrid. Will need to travel to our Bristol hub for team meetings in person once a month.
About the role
This is an exciting opportunity to join Sustrans as part of the Policy and Public Affairs team, during an election year, delivering a number of vital pieces of research designed to improve walking, wheeling and cycling and transport more broadly.
As the Policy Officer, you will lead on delivering two key policy projects for Sustrans with support from our Head of Policy and Senior Policy Officer. You will help develop evidence, policy and practice working closely with colleagues to maximise long-term opportunities to help increase transport choice for people.
We offer true hybrid working, a flexible mix of working from home and occasional travel to a nearby office hub with an expectation of a monthly team meeting in Bristol and occasional travel for project related activity.
This role will require travel and work at locations as necessary to undertake projects on behalf of Sustrans.
About you
You should have proven experience of conducting qualitative and quantitative research across a variety of issues and in writing for policy and public audiences.
We also ask that you are experienced in working autonomously but also as part of a team and with funders, partners and agencies to deliver work.
You will be skilled in presenting arguments and clearly communicating complex information to a range of audiences in an accessible and persuasive way, in person and in writing.
Sustrans has a long-term commitment to being a charity for everyone - reducing inequality, valuing diversity, enabling inclusion and ensuring all people are treated with dignity and respect. We aim to be a truly inclusive employer and welcome applications from people from all parts of the community, in particular from under-represented groups.
What we offer
In return we can offer true hybrid working to suit individual circumstances and a flexible, supportive and rewarding working environment.
Wellbeing
28 days’ leave per annum plus bank holidays for full-time working
Ability to buy an extra week of annual leave (pro-rata for part-time staff)
Staff volunteer days
24/7 free, impartial and confidential support service
We are members of the Green Commute Initiative and Cycle Scheme who both offer cycle to work schemes
Financial
Group Personal Pension scheme with a 6% or 7% of basic salary contribution being matched by Sustrans
Bike, computer and season ticket loans
Discount benefits
London Weighting Allowance of £4,530 for all those living within a London Borough (32 local authority districts plus the City of London)
Death in Service benefit – 3 x annual Salary
Family Friendly
Enhanced maternity and paternity pay
Flexible Working practices (full time hours are 37.5 per week, Monday - Friday)
Additional information
Closing date for the receipt of completed applications is 23:59, 19 May 2024.
Interviews will take place in via MS Teams during the week commencing 27 May 2024
About Sustrans
At Sustrans you'll be part of a movement to make it easier for people to walk and cycle.
We're all here to change things! You’ll be part of an incredible community of talented, passionate, creative, problem solvers all working together to change things for the better. We act locally and think big - we have a vision of a society where the way we travel creates healthier places and happier lives for everyone.
You'll be questioning the status quo and daring to imagine a different world. You'll work on exciting, impactful projects that will stretch and empower you and you'll be rewarded by seeing the difference you make to people, communities and the planet.
We believe including everyone is central to who we are and what we want to achieve, we welcome difference and pride ourselves on creating a culture where you can be yourself and where your wellness is supported.
You'll be guaranteed to make friends for life and work with a team that is incredibly flexible, supportive, ethical and fun.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as the applications come in. Don’t miss your opportunity, apply now!
Are you passionate about ensuring everyone can engage effectively with the digital world? Are you a brilliant influencer who relishes harnessing great policy and research to realise social change? Do you want to work in a pioneering initiative with impact at its core?
Then this could be the role for you. At the Digital Poverty Alliance, we are looking for our new Policy & Insights Manager. You must be able to inspire us and our partners and spearhead our public affairs work, including through our National Delivery Plan to unite action to end digital poverty by 2030.
We bring together charities, corporates and government to address the underlying issues stopping families gaining full access to digital services such as education, healthcare and employment. We seek social change through our National Delivery Plan, whilst also delivering solutions in local areas that help real people and provide evidence for change.
This is an exciting, high profile and fast-paced role, joining our small team and working alongside partners, National Delivery Committee members and our wider stakeholders to effect real change for people. You will report directly to the Chief Executive, working alongside our Head of External Affairs.
A big part of our social change ambition is delivered through our public affairs work; influencing policy makers so that our ambitions are shared with government, companies and with everyone able to deliver to our vision of a world where everyone is able to connect successfully with the digital world where and when they want to. You will also be responsible for drafting white papers, analysing trends and data, and identifying new insights. You will support our Industry Forum, working with existing and new members to broaden the group.
The DPA aims to work through partners in delivering to our core mission and, as such, we retain only a small core team with support from our PR agency. As such, you’ll lead on delivering our policy and public affairs work, from briefing MPs to developing our policy positions.
Whilst the role is remote based, you will regularly need to attend in-person meetings and events in central London (daytime and evening), as well as undertaking travel across the UK. Given the need to attend meetings in Westminster and Whitehall, you will need to live within commuting distance of London.
Key focus areas
- Building relationships with public, private and third sector organisations, including the wider DPA community.
- Working to convene and collaborate with organisations and individuals committed to ending digital poverty.
- Work with colleagues across local, regional and national governments and across political parties to advocate for policies to promote digital inclusion.
- Undertaking research and analysis to understand digital poverty and the impact of policies to address it.
- Managing policy and research projects including the ongoing development of the national delivery plan and supporting ‘proof of concept’ projects.
- Developing commercial and research partnerships with organisations and supporting the development of the industry forum.
- Communicating the DPA vision and perspective through verbal and written communication.
First interviews will be held w/b 6th May 2024 via Microsoft Teams. Second interviews will be held soon after. The role is to start as soon as possible. Please note this role will be subject to a DBS check.
Unfortunately, due to the expected volume of applications and our small team, we will not be able to acknowledge every application. If you have not heard from us by 6th May you have not been successful on this occasion.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.