Lead policy officer jobs

Community Builder (Community Development) – Leeds 

People-focused community engagement role supporting the armed forces community to connect, collaborate and lead local change

Salary: Up to £33,995 per annum   

Location: Remote in Leeds with travel within the UK. See the “Please Note” section below for further details.

Contract Type: Permanent

The Opportunity

We have an exciting opportunity for a COMMUNITY BUILDER to join our Community Development team, working to support local veterans to take an active role in their communities. 

This is a hands-on, relationship-led role focused on bringing people together, building trust, and enabling community-led action. You will work with veterans, local residents, community groups and organisations to strengthen connections and create opportunities for people to participate, contribute and thrive. 

If you are passionate about community engagement, relationship building, and supporting people to create positive local change, we would love to hear from you. 

About The Role  

As a Community Builder, you will work with members of the Armed Forces Community, particularly those who may face barriers to participation or engagement. 

This role may also be described in other organisations as a Community Development Officer or Community Engagement Officer. 

A Community Builder is a relationship-led professional who brings people together, builds trust, strengthens local networks and supports communities to take action on the things that matter most to them. 

In this role, you will be actively visible and present within your local community, building trusted relationships and supporting conversations that help people connect and collaborate. 

You will facilitate conversations with veterans, local residents and community groups to understand local strengths, interests and priorities. You will connect people with shared interests and ideas, helping to build collaboration and encourage community-led action. You will support community ideas to develop into practical activities, projects and opportunities, and you will work with local organisations and partners to strengthen community networks. 

This role brings together community engagement, facilitation and partnership working to create meaningful, long-term impact. 

What a Typical Two Weeks Might Look Like 

Community Development is a flexible role shaped by the needs of local people and communities, with some evening and weekend working required. 

To help you understand how the role operates in practice, we’ve included an example two-week working pattern attached. 

Please note this is for illustration only and will vary depending on community needs and priorities. 

About You  

We are looking for someone who is motivated by working with people and passionate about helping communities connect and thrive. 

You may already have experience in community development, or come from a background such as housing, social care, education, youth work or the wider charity sector. What matters most is your ability to build trusted relationships, engage people effectively and support collaboration that leads to positive change. 

You will be an excellent communicator, able to build trust, inspire action and work effectively with a wide range of people and organisations. You will also be comfortable working independently, managing a varied workload and developing strong working relationships across different groups.

We are looking for someone with:  

• A Community Development qualification and/or transferable Community Development skills and experience.

• An awareness of (or willingness to learn) Asset-Based Community Development (ABCD) – an approach focused on building on the strengths, skills and connections already present in communities. 

• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build relationships that drive action.  

• A track record of successful collaboration with internal and external partners and stakeholders.  

• Effective and efficient organisational and IT skills. 

PLEASE NOTE:  

• The successful candidate will need to be based within a 30-minute commute of their allocated locality and there is a requirement to travel regularly across the wider area (travel expenses covered).  The successful candidate must possess a valid full UK driver’s license and have access to a reliable vehicle with business insurance for work purposes.  

• There will also be a requirement for occasional travel to other UK locations for meetings and events depending on the charity’s needs such as our annual all colleagues in person event.   

• The successful candidate will work 35 hours per week over 5 days, Monday - Sunday. Core working days will be Monday to Friday; however, flexibility is essential, as regular evening and weekend work will also be required to meet the needs of the role. Working hours will vary to ensure a total of 70 hours is covered over a two-week period, so please take this into consideration before applying.  

• The successful candidate will be required to undergo a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check   

About the Team  

You’ll be joining a supportive and collaborative team of Community Development professionals working across local communities to build relationships, develop partnerships and support community-led activity. Community Development Managers and Community Builders work closely together, sharing learning and supporting each other to deliver meaningful local impact. 

Please see the job description for more details.  

In return we can offer you: 

• Belonging to a team who make a difference to our community and value equality, diversity and inclusion. 

• 29 days’ annual leave plus 8 bank holidays, regardless of service -plus your birthday off to celebrate! 

• Opportunity to buy and sell up to 5 days annual leave per year. 

• Added to our free health scheme from day one, including discounts on dental, opticians, massages, and more - with the option to upgrade. 

• 3 volunteer days per year to support the Help for Heroes community.

• A generous salary sacrifice pension scheme with an 8% employer contribution and a minimum 3% employee contribution, plus life insurance up to 4× salary as an active member. 

Closing date: 23rd July 2026 

Please note: We may close this vacancy early should we receive a high volume of strong applications.

We are committed to equality, diversity and inclusion and welcome applications from all backgrounds.

This is an exciting opportunity for an experienced international advocacy professional to lead our global engagement strategy as our inaugural Head of Advocacy. You will be joining us at a pivotal moment on our mission as we continue to develop and implement our international engagement strategy and launch a new Global Institute for the 1001 Critical Days. As our Head of Advocacy you will elevate our influence on the global stage. You will work with our senior team to drive international advocacy and engagement with policymakers, parliamentarians, international organisations, and strategic partners. Your work will help us to position babies – and the 1,001 critical days – at the heart of global policy agendas.

To apply please click on the redirect to recruiter button. 

Liberty is looking for an exceptional Policy & Campaigns Officer with a strong understanding of civil liberties and human rights to join the team as we begin work on our exciting new three-year strategy.

This position in the Policy & Campaigns team plays a key role in developing and implementing Liberty’s policy and campaigning priorities: undertaking high-quality research, influencing decision-makers in Government and Parliament, building coalitions, producing policy and campaign materials, providing policy input to strategic litigation, and building public and political support for Liberty’s work.

We are seeking someone who holds Liberty’s values and ambitions close to their heart, as we work to ensure everyone in the United Kingdom is treated fairly, with dignity and respect. This is a key role in securing the long-term policy change needed to protect the human rights and civil liberties of everyone who lives in the UK.

Policy & Campaigns Officers monitor and respond to policy threats to our human rights frameworks, to our rights to protest and free speech, and to live free from discrimination. They work with political players and civil servants to steer policy and legislation. They produce high-quality, persuasive content and translate complex legal and policy arguments in a clear and compelling way for mass audiences. They lead and support networks of human rights and civil society organisations, lending expertise and building solidarity. We have worked with civil society to fight back against the Police, Crime, Sentencing and Courts Act 2022 and the Public Order Act 2023, and to see off threats to our Human Rights Act and Equality Act.

We are looking for a strategic thinker with strong political instincts who brings a collaborative approach to their work. You will have policy and research experience in human rights, or a related field. You will have a strong understanding of how to secure policy change in challenging political environments.

You will have a strong commitment to Liberty’s values and strategy.

Liberty fully embraces flexible working and is committed to employee development. We aim to encourage people from all backgrounds to work with us and are particularly interested in hearing from people from minority backgrounds and all socio-economic sections of society. Liberty supports hybrid working, with a minimum of two days per week in the Westminster office.

The deadline for applications is 9am Wednesday 15 July 2026

Applications received after this deadline will not be considered.

Please be aware that we do not accept CVs for this role. All applicants must complete the application form to apply.

First round interviews will be held online on Thursday 30 July 2026

Second round interview will be held in Liberty’s Office on Wednesday 5 August 2026

Cardiomyopathy UK is the specialist national charity for people affected by cardiomyopathy, a group of conditions that affect the heart muscle. It can have a devastating impact on the lives of people of all ages and is usually inherited. Our vision is that everyone affected by cardiomyopathy should live a long and fulfilling life.

We are midway through our five-year strategic plan, at a genuinely exciting moment, both for the charity and for cardiomyopathy more broadly. The treatment landscape has been transformed in recent years: approved dedicated therapies are now available, more are in the pipeline, and the first genetic treatments are on the horizon. This is bringing new energy and investment from clinicians, pharmaceutical companies and the research community, creating real opportunities for a charity with the credibility, evidence base and relationships to make the most of them. Our evidence base is stronger than ever: we have completed the James Lind Alliance Priority Setting Partnership, surveyed over 1,300 people affected by cardiomyopathy, and published our State of the Nation report. Against a rapidly shifting NHS and policy landscape, we are now reviewing our priorities and sharpening our focus on where we can have the greatest impact.

For the right person, this is an opportunity with real strategic scope. We want to build on our strong policy positions and evidence base and translate them into proactive campaigning and influencing, moving from good policy thinking to concerted public affairs activity, strategic stakeholder engagement, and campaigns that achieve real change. We have a draft theory of change to refine and policy recommendations to turn into action. Our Change Makers volunteer advocacy network is central to this, but needs dedicated leadership to fulfil its potential; rebuilding it is one of the most important early priorities for the post-holder.

Our research programme reflects this momentum. The James Lind Alliance process established the top ten research priorities for cardiomyopathy, giving us a clear, credible basis for directing research attention and resource. We have launched our Catalyst Grants scheme, the charity's first foray into directly funding research, with a second round under way, and want to build on it. That means resourcing the scheme sustainably, deepening engagement with the research community through a growing researcher network, and establishing an annual researchers' event to bring the community together and identify collaboration opportunities. The Director will lead this next phase, working with the Research Manager and our clinical and academic partners to define and deliver our ambitions.

Raising awareness of cardiomyopathy, its signs, symptoms and genetic risk, is equally central to our mission. Too many people are still diagnosed late because neither they nor their GP knew what to look for. We want our communications work to drive this agenda purposefully, drawing on our own evidence about diagnostic delay and unmet need.

We are also looking for someone who can work alongside our fundraising team to sustain and grow this work. Securing dedicated funding for our research grants programme and advocacy work is a real priority, and the changing landscape, with greater pharmaceutical interest in cardiomyopathy than ever, creates new opportunities alongside more traditional trust and grant funding. Experience of developing compelling cases for support, and/or navigating partnerships with commercial organisations in a way that protects the charity's independence, would be a significant asset.

The Director of Research and External Affairs leads the charity's research, policy and advocacy, and communications and marketing functions, with a team of four staff. The post-holder sets the strategic direction of the directorate, drives high-quality delivery,  upholds the charity's values, and represents the charity externally across research, policy, clinical and funder networks. The Director is a member of the charity's Leadership Team, working closely with the CEO to steer the charity forward.

Manchester Central Foodbank is a busy Trussell Trust-affiliated food bank, with centres in Central, North, and East Manchester. We were established in Ardwick in 2013 by students at the Manchester Universities’ Catholic Chaplaincy, making us the first student-led food bank in the country. Since then we have grown significantly, expanding our weekly sessions into Harpurhey and Openshaw.

Our core aims are to deliver the best quality support that we can to the largest number of our neighbours in need, while working with partners and influencing and organising at a neighbourhood and citywide level to reduce and end the need for food banks in Manchester.

We currently support 16,000 people per year with nutritionally balanced 3-day food parcels. This is double the number of people we supported in the first year following the Covid-19 pandemic, and four times the number supported in 2019. We also provide financial inclusion support with advice workers in public sessions, access to energy vouchers, SIM cards, and other voucher or material support. We coordinate across a network of 200 active front-line referral agencies with the aim of ensuring everyone who accesses our service has appropriate, specialised, and ongoing support alongside the material provision that we provide.

We are active leaders in anti-poverty organising and community development, as convenors of the citywide Building an Anti-Poverty Community collective and aim to be key shapers and influencers of new strategies and policies, working closely to support and influence local government, NHS, education and research agendas in Manchester and more widely building upon our track record of successful anti-poverty partnership work, social value impact and Parliamentary influencing. Our core values are: care, partnership, dignity, partnership, anti-stigma and rights-based.

Key responsibilities
As Chief Executive Officer you will be the key senior staff leader for the charity. You will lead the team to ensure they have the resources, frameworks, and support to effect smooth day-to-day running of our frontline support service. You will provide a strong business management focus, through supporting the financial process, overall metrics and reporting, day to day HR and input for the external Payroll Team, Health and Safety, appropriate working conditions, and strategic planning and communications. 

As the senior lead you will also facilitate and support the Board of Trustees to develop and lead strategic development objectives and plans for transformation, and ensure the delivery and implementation of the charity’s overall strategy and specific focused strategies. You will develop and manage strategic relationships with stakeholders including Council, NHS, and other statutory partners and funders, corporate and social value funders and partners, and high-value and donors. You will also plan and lead fundraising strategies. 

You will be a key external interface for our community and partners.  You will do this by:

Staff/Board Leadership and Governance:

• Line managing a current team of operations staff, including those supporting the recruitment, training, and management of a large team of volunteers. 

• Building team spirit and employee engagement and offer.

• Leading and delivering regular staff performance and development reviews.

• Developing and delivering robust metrics and reporting to the board and staff team, through consistent monthly and quarterly reporting packs to the board of trustees.

• Ensuring all staff and volunteers are familiar and engaged with the charity’s long-term goals and objectives, and know how their work helps to implement these on the ground. Leading the development of induction packages and ongoing offers for staff and volunteers. You will be responsible for writing, implementation, and update of institutional policies as needed to staff and volunteers.

• Leading targeted volunteer recruitment strategies to maximise core delivery capacity through volunteer roles and prioritise staffing capacity to core charity operations.

• Ensure policies are kept current.

• Ensure recording and management of absence/leave.

• Ensure Health and Safety aspects of all organisational operations are compliant, in collaboration with the Board sponsor.

• Manage day to day financial input, through the Xero app, and ensure accurate and up-to-date financial reporting for the Board/Treasurer. This includes administering monthly payroll requests.

• Oversee training and personal development plans for staff and volunteers, as appropriate.

• Working with the Chair of Trustees to implement the charity’s strategic plan and structural development objectives.

• Develop and implement ongoing plans and actions to ensure operationally-appropriate and safe office, warehouse, and working spaces.

• Lead on development, modelling, and maintenance of service delivery standards, quality control, and ensuring frontline teams have the appropriate resources, support, and frameworks to deliver high quality and consistent support offers.

Foodbank Management:

• Support the Operations and Project Lead to deliver the smooth running of food bank sessions across multiple centres, ensuring an excellent standard of service across all centres, and seeking to continually develop our service in line with our goals to support the largest number of people with the best support we can while working to reduce and end the need for food banks in Manchester.

• Develop and build a new Delivery Strategy with the Chair of Trustees and Operations and Project Lead.

• Support the Operations and Project Lead and Warehouse and Logistics Coordinator to safely store and maintain optimal stock levels, maximise food donation levels and reduce food spend, develop and maintain relationships with community donors, and record incoming and outgoing stock, with the aim of ensuring that all centres are well stocked to provide as many varied, balanced, and nutritious and culturally-appropriate food parcels as necessary.

• Ensure compliance with the procedures set out in Manchester Central Foodbank’s policies, the Trussell Trust’s Operating Manual, and relevant statutory requirements at all times.

• Ensure our food bank centres provide a safe and dignified environment for clients, free from discrimination, judgement, and stigma.

Strategy and External Relationships:

• Working with the Chair of Trustees on development, monitoring, and implementation of the core charity strategy and sub-strategies. Ensuring the involvement and participation of the food bank’s staff, volunteers, external partners, and service users in all strategic planning and decision making, where appropriate.

• Support the Operations and Project Lead to work build strong relationships with referral partners and wider community and statutory networks of collaborators and support to ensure that our service users are able to access the maximum amount of support before, during, and after accessing our service to minimise the length and severity of financial crisis, maximise their incomes, and provide pathways to ongoing and longer-term support.

• Play an active role in strategic and convening spaces around our city and neighbourhoods to present the foodbank’s approach, bring more partners into our network, and influence policy and funding frameworks.

• Develop and manage a Corporate Relationships and Social Value strategy, including communications, networking, and relationship management.

• Lead on directing the charity’s external communications, including social media, in person, newsletters, company visits, and other content.

• Manage internal communications, including developing and delivering two-way team briefings with the board and staff/volunteers, biannual town halls or away days with board members and staff/volunteers, newsletters, and an open and collaborative, person-focused, and developmental culture within the organisation.

About you

Essential Experience and Knowledge:

• 5 years’ experience of leading a similar profiled charity or organisation and successful Board interaction.

• Experience of leading successful transformation and change for a charity and a strong developmental mindset and focus.

• Have led a team of 5 or more staff members to successful performance, demonstrating experience of coaching and individual development skills.

• Experience in developing and leading successful and engaged volunteering programmes and support.

• Full valid driving licence. 

• Proven experience of leading the development and delivery of strategy and sub-strategies to successful conclusion and fashioning evidenced business cases for current and new development projects.

• Leading multiple complex projects or services, balancing the needs and interests of a range of stakeholders.

• Experience of implementing rigorous reporting and evaluation practices on operations.

• Experience of managing day-to-day financial administration and reporting.

• Evidence of delivering clear metric dashboards and reports.

• Experience of high-quality implementation of Health and Safety and Safeguarding policies and a leadership practice that centres care for staff, volunteers, and service users. Safeguarding lead qualification is desirable but will provide training if not.

• Demonstrable knowledge and experience in HR processes and management.

• Experience in building and delivering strategic plans.

• Proven experience of effective problem solving and responding to crisis situations.

• A good working knowledge of the social welfare and political landscape in Manchester – or demonstrable experience in similar expertise and networking and an openness to learn and develop sector-specific knowledge.

• A nuanced and sensitive understanding of the complex reasons people attend food banks.

Desirable Experience and Knowledge:

• Partnering with and building relationships with Council, NHS, and other statutory partners and funders, corporate and social value partners and funders, high net worth donors, and fundraising through grant applications and individual/community donors.

• Experience of working collaboratively with stakeholders from a variety of backgrounds, cultures, faiths, and views. 

• Experience of handling safeguarding incidents, follow-ups, and debriefs with staff, volunteers, and service users.

• Demonstrated success in delivering communications strategies for internal and external stakeholders, including social media and press content and campaigns.

Personal Skills and Attributes:

• An individual who embodies the values of Manchester Central Foodbank in their core professional practice and personal approach to their work.

• An empathetic and care-centred approach and the ability to centre the experience and outcomes of people from marginalised or socially-excluded backgrounds in core decision-making and prioritisation.

• A leader who takes ownership, accountability, and responsibility to drive an organisation and team forward with a developmental mindset.

• A highly self-motivated and proactive person who centres collaboration and consensus with the staff team, volunteers and Board of Trustees in their approach.

• Able to develop strategy and plans and translate strategy to actionable delivery and developmental projects.

• A high level of literacy and communication.

• A high level of numeracy and ability to analyse data.

• Strong leadership attributes to build engagement and performance with the team.

• Excellent interpersonal skills and the ability to motivate, persuade, and coach staff and volunteers.

• Excellent personal organisation skills and the ability to manage multiple conflicting priorities and deadlines.

Be Part of Meaningful Change

Rape Crisis South London (RCSL) is entering an exciting new chapter. With a new CEO, refreshed Senior Leadership Team, and an ambitious vision for the future, we are laying the foundations for a bold new organisational strategy.
 

We are now seeking an Deputy CYP Lead to join our CYP Team at this pivotal time on a permanent basis.

As a specialist charity supporting survivors of sexual violence across twelve South London boroughs, we provide counselling, group therapy, advocacy, prevention education, and professional training. With an annual income of approximately £4 million, we are growing and strengthening our infrastructure to better serve survivors and communities.

About the Role:

We are seeking an experienced and committed Deputy Children and Young People (CYP) Lead to support the development and delivery of our therapeutic services at a pivotal time of growth and transformation.
 

Reporting to the CYP Clinical Lead, the successful candidate will play a key role in providing day-to-day leadership and guidance to CYP counsellors and therapists. You will help ensure that services for children and young people are consistently safe, effective, trauma-informed, and survivor-centred.
 

This is a varied and impactful role that combines clinical leadership, safeguarding oversight, service development, and line management. It offers a meaningful opportunity to contribute to shaping, strengthening, and expanding high-quality CYP services.
 

What You’ll Do

• Support the CYP Clinical Lead with assessments, allocations and case distribution across CYP pathways
• Provide clinical guidance and day-to-day support to CYP counsellors and therapists
• Line manage allocated CYP staff and contribute to recruitment, induction and staff development
• Oversee group work programmes, including family support groups
• Undertake the role of Designated Safeguarding Officer for the CYP team
• Deputise as Deputy Designated Safeguarding Lead as part of the rota when required
• Provide guidance on complex safeguarding concerns and ensure appropriate escalation
• Contribute to service improvement, contract delivery and performance monitoring
• Build and maintain effective relationships with external agencies and partners
• Deputise for the CYP Clinical Lead where required

About You

• Degree-level qualification in counselling or psychotherapy (or equivalent experience)
  Professional membership with an accredited counselling/psychotherapy body
  Minimum of 200 hours post-qualification supervised client work
  At least 3 years’ experience working with children and young people affected by rape and sexual violence
  Experience leading or supporting a team
  Strong knowledge of safeguarding legislation (children and adults)
  Completed Level 3 safeguarding training
  Experience in the Violence Against Women and Girls (VAWG) sector
  Understanding of trauma-informed, survivor-centred and feminist practice
  Experience working with diverse communities
  Ability to use data and outcomes to support service improvement
• Experience working with marginalised or under-served communities
  Knowledge of housing, welfare benefits or related legislationn

This role offers the opportunity to:

• Take the next step in your leadership journey
• Gain experience of safeguarding, clinical leadership and service development
• Support and develop a dedicated team of CYP practitioners
• Contribute to the future direction of CYP therapeutic services at RCSL
• Be part of a dynamic, creative and values-led organisation

Safeguarding and Safer Recruitment

Rape Crisis South London is committed to safeguarding survivors and service users. The post holder will contribute to maintaining the organisation’s safeguarding standards.

This includes:

• Promoting the safety and wellbeing of children, young people and adults at risk
• Identifying and reporting safeguarding concerns
• Following organisational safeguarding policies and procedures
• Supporting a culture where everyone feels safe, respected and supported

Our safer recruitment processes include:

• Values-based interviews
• Verification of identity, qualifications and employment history
• Reference checks
• Enhanced DBS checks where required
• Safeguarding training and supervision
• Equality, Feminist Commitment and Values

Rape Crisis South London is an equal opportunities employer. We particularly welcome applications from women who are under-represented in leadership roles within the violence against women and girls (VAWG) sector.
 

Our work is grounded in feminist principles, recognising sexual violence as both a cause and consequence of gender inequality. We centre survivor voices and prioritise empowerment, inclusivity and intersectionality.
 

Intersectionality and Reasonable Adjustments

We recognise that experiences of sexual violence are shaped by intersecting factors such as:

• Race and ethnicity
• Disability
• Sexuality and gender identity
• Socioeconomic background
• Immigration status
• Faith and culture
   

We are committed to removing barriers and creating an inclusive workplace.
 

Applicants are encouraged to let us know if they require reasonable adjustments during the recruitment process, such as:

• Alternative interview formats or timings
• Additional time for written tasks
• Accessible documentation
• Support relating to disability, neurodivergence or health needs
   

Learning and Development

As a charity undergoing transformation and growth, we welcome colleagues who are committed to continuous learning and professional development.

Interview Process

Shortlisted applicants will be invited to an interview, conducted via MS Teams.

Stage one: MS Teams with the Director of Programmes and two other panel members.

The whole process from advertisement to appointment, may take up to 3 -4 weeks.

The role will initially be open for two weeks (until 12:00 noon on Wednesday 16 April 2026). However, due to the urgent need for support, applications will be reviewed and interviews arranged on a rolling basis, so early applications are encouraged.

The interview will explore experience and approach to:

• Safeguarding
• Equality, diversity and inclusion
• Wellbeing and feminist practice
• Trauma-informed therapeutic work
• Leadership responsibilities relevant to the role

This post is open to women only (Schedule 9, Paragraph 1, Equality Act 2010).
We particularly welcome applications from women underrepresented in leadership roles in the VAWG sector. Applicants must have the right to work in the UK.

How to apply
Please submit your CV and a cover letter outlining your suitability for the role to in PDF format to our recruitment inbox.

AI in Job Applications 
We understand some candidates use AI tools when applying. Whilst we welcome the use of technology to support clear communication and structure, we want to learn more about you, so please ensure that your application reflects your own skills, knowledge and experiences 

This is an exciting opportunity to play a pivotal role in growing a major donor programme that directly supports life-changing eye care services in the Holy Land. You will work closely with the Executive Director, UK (EDUK) and senior leadership, including the CEO and Trustees, to contribute to the long-term sustainability of a respected and impactful international charity.

As part of a small, ambitious and collaborative UK team, you will play a major role in shaping and developing the major donor programme, building meaningful relationships with supporters and seeing the tangible impact of your work on patients and communities.

The St John of Jerusalem Eye Hospital Group (SJEHG) is a UK-registered charity delivering expert eye care to the people of the Holy Land, regardless of ethnicity, religion or ability to pay. It operates through two locally-registered charities to provide services in East Jerusalem, the West Bank and Gaza.

Salary: £35,159 to £36,935 (starting salary range)

Working pattern: Full-time, Permanent (35 hours per week)

Pension: USS

Annual leave: 25 days plus 8 bank holidays, 3 well-being days, and a Christmas office closure

Location: Hybrid, flexible working model with an office located in central London. Occasional UK-wide travel for GHE and relevant events.

Reports to: Policy Manager (Skills, Innovation, International)

Purpose

GuildHE is seeking an ambitious Policy Officer to play a pivotal role in the next phase of our organisation’s growth. Working directly with the Head of Research Policy and the Policy Manager (Skills, Innovation, International), you will help monitor, analyse, and respond to policy initiatives within the research and innovation space.  You will support a range of member-focused events and activities to ensure staff in our member institutions are well-informed and supported. This includes supporting the management of the GuildHE Research Consortium and leading on the organising and delivery of our flagship annual PGR Doctoral Festival, helping our members develop, share best practices, and maximise their research impact.

Key Responsibilities 

Policy Analysis & Communication

1. Horizon Scanning: Monitor government departments (e.g., DSIT, DfE), funding and regulatory bodies (UKRI, Research England, OfS, Innovate UK), and other stakeholders for policy updates, funding calls, and consultation launches in relation to Research and Innovation policy.

2. Briefings: Produce concise policy briefings, data summaries, and position papers for GuildHE members and leadership on key Research and Innovation issues (e.g., REF, knowledge exchange, KEF, commercialisation, research culture, open research). Develop high-quality external reports, consultations, blogs and other materials articulating member challenges and opportunities.

3. Consultation Drafts: Assist senior policy colleagues in gathering evidence, analysing member feedback, collaborating with sector stakeholders, and drafting compelling arguments that articulate the unique perspectives of GuildHE institutions.

4. Share Best Practice: Identify case studies across the GHE membership to share best practice internally and externally and drive national conversations about new ways of working and operating in the sector.

5. Policy issues: Maintain up-to-date knowledge of national and institutional research and innovation policies indicated by the Head of Research Policy or Policy Manager (Research, Innovation, International).

Member Support & Consortium Coordination

1. Member Engagement: Maintain regular, positive communication with research and innovation leads across member institutions, fostering a collaborative network.  Support relevant GuildHE member networks, including the Knowledge Exchange, Innovation and Place network, promoting communication, collaboration, and best practice exchange to inform evidence-based policy development.

2. Member development: Provide support for timely implementation of good practice guidelines and associated resources, within agreed budgets. This includes assisting with members' business development initiatives, such as Research Degree Awarding Powers.

3. Event Delivery: Develop and deliver content for events including the GuildHE Research Consortium meetings, the Research and Knowledge Exchange Symposium, PGR Doctoral Festival, the PGR Network for global majority students and sandpits/match events, workshops and roundtables. 

4. Shared Services: Collaborate with other GHE teammates to maintain and deliver our shared services (i.e. research outputs repository, shared postgraduate online training, research impact tracking and researcher development tools) and explore new services in response to members’ needs

5. PGR Students: Develop and deliver initiatives for postgraduate students and early career researchers (e.g., our PGR Support Programme and associated student networks), working closely with the Policy Manager (Student Experience) to ensure postgraduate students are reflected in broader student support policies.

The postholder will also be expected to:

1. Actively support the delivery of the GuildHE strategy.

2. To contribute positively to a small, professional team focused on delivering excellence in their members’ interests.

3. Support GuildHE events and communication activities as appropriate - including campaigns, writing articles, blogs and press releases.

4. Build strong relationships with key stakeholders at HE institutions and sector agencies, including senior leaders, academics, and policy staff.

5. Gather feedback from HE institutions and use this to inform the continuous improvement of our services.

6. Demonstrate a proactive approach to embedding EDI principles within all policy development and advocacy efforts.

7. Represent GuildHE externally on a range of HE sector groups and projects and deputise for the Head of Research Policy or the Policy Manager (Skills, Innovation and International) as appropriate.

8. Undertake any other reasonable duties as may be required.

Person Specification

Core Skills

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build and maintain strong relationships

• Clear, concise writing skills for drafting policy responses, reports, and emails to senior stakeholders with excellent attention to detail.

• Problem-solving, Influencing and advocacy skills 

• Ability to digest complex, lengthy policy documents and extract key themes relevant to GuildHE members.

• Confident digital skills and highly proficient user of computer packages including MS Office and G Suite

• Ability to manage multiple tasks effectively, adhere deadlines, and maintain project momentum. This includes the capacity to monitor progress, identify and mitigate potential risks, and proactively address challenges.

• Experience in using data and evidence to enhance and impact assess activities. 

• Facilitation and convening skills would be advantageous 

Core Attributes

• Ability to build professional relationships quickly and sustainably with members and a wide range of stakeholders

• Able to meet deadlines, to prioritise work and to anticipate issues and problems with strong attention to detail

• A collaborative, communicative and flexible team player who is also comfortable working independently.

• An individual who shares our values of equity and inclusion and can translate these values into day to day work and impactful outcomes.

• An understanding of, or a keen interest in, the UK higher education sector, research funding landscape, or public policy.

• To be willing to travel across the UK for meetings with members, stakeholders and events and to work flexibly, when and where necessary.

Ideal Experience

• Knowledge and understanding of higher education policy, working in research and innovation and/or supporting a research environment. 

• Experience of developing policy positions and responses

• Experience in synthesising complex data and/or ideas

• Experience in supporting training and development

Job Advert

GuildHE is a formal representative body, representing diversity in the higher education sector and the widest variety of institution types across the UK.  We are undergoing an exciting period of transformation, evolving our policy approach and member-focused services to significantly increase our impact within the sector and ensure we’re providing timely, proactive support to our members as they address emerging 21st century challenges.  

GuildHE is seeking an ambitious Policy Officer to play a pivotal role in the next phase of our organisation’s growth. Working directly with the Head of Research Policy and the Policy Manager (Skills, Innovation, International), you will help monitor, analyse, and respond to policy initiatives within the research and innovation space.  You will support a range of member-focused events and activities to ensure staff in our member institutions are well-informed and supported. This includes supporting the management of the GuildHE Research Consortium and leading on the organising and delivery of our flagship annual PGR Doctoral Festival, helping our members develop, share best practices, and maximise their research impact.

If you think you can bring bold, creative and proactive energy to our small-and-mighty team to help take us to the next level, we want to hear from you!

Application closing date: Monday 12th July

Interviews: Tuesday 21st July 

Please submit your cv and a cover letter via the jobs portal

Curious about the role? Please contact Dana Gamble, Policy Manager for more information

Purpose of the job

UK Youth exists to widen the reach and deepen the impact of youth work and outdoor learning.

 As we enter an exciting new phase of our five-year strategic period, we are looking for a Policy and Public Affairs Officer to help us build on political momentum around young people and youth work to inspire lasting change.

 You will support the Head of Policy and Public Affairs, within the Impact department (covering research, evaluation, service design, policy and public affairs, and communications), working closely with colleagues across the organisation to build and develop UK Youth’s relationships with a broad range of external stakeholders, including: Westminster government (e.g. ministers, officials and special advisers), parliamentarians, the devolved administrations, NGOs and third-party organisations, while shaping and responding to a wide range of public policy issues.

 The role will require a strong understanding of complex policy issues and an interest in the political landscape and how it interacts with third sector organisations. You will have a can-do attitude, excellent written and oral communication skills, strong time management and organisational skills and an ability to develop positive relationships with colleagues internally and externally to support our goals.

Why work at UK Youth?

Every young person deserves a youth worker. UK Youth exists to make that a reality. Our vision is a society that backs every young person - through each spark, struggle and success.

 As the UK’s national infrastructure body for youth work, we strengthen and champion a diverse network of youth organisations, unlock investment, shape policy and build the evidence base for what works. At a time of growing need and inequality of access, our work has never been more important.

 We are entering an exciting new phase of our strategy - focused on long-term resilience, income diversification and a transformational Capital Appeal to develop Avon Tyrrell as a national centre of excellence for outdoor learning. Joining UK Youth means being part of an ambitious, impact-driven organisation committed to strengthening youth work for generations to come.

Key responsibilities

Public Affairs support

• Produce briefings and speaking notes for UK Youth leadership and trustees relating to important policy issues and external events.

• Manage relationships with politicians, civil servants, and staff in local authorities and regulatory bodies to brief them on matters relating to UK Youth’s policy objectives.

• Identify opportunities for UK Youth to publicly intervene on key policy priorities – including responses to government consultations, speaking at events, meeting with key influencers, etc.

• Develop written content, including blogs, and support colleagues in our Communications team to respond to breaking news relating to UK Youth’s policy priorities.

• Work closely with the Communications team to support the development of influencing plans that promote our policy messages on public channels.

Political monitoring and policy development support

• Coordinate with monitoring services to ensure proactive monitoring of relevant announcements and developments in Parliament and the devolved nations that relate to youth work and young people.

• Work with colleagues across the Impact Function to understand trends and innovations in the youth and outdoor learning sectors that have implications for policy.

• Ensure that there is a clear record of UK Youth’s policy positions on key issues, along with rationale and suggested messaging.

• Contribute to external-facing policy reports and briefings on topics relating to UK Youth’s work.

Stakeholder engagement and event management

• Build strong working relationships with policy professionals across the youth sector and identify opportunities to work in partnership, where appropriate.

• Develop relationships with key external stakeholders including other policy and public affairs teams in the youth sector and civil servants.

• Work closely with young people and youth workers to help refine UK Youth’s policy positions and influencing plans.

• Lead on day-to-day management of UK Youth’s secretariat role for the Back Youth Alliance, with oversight and support from the Head of Policy and Public Affairs.

• Project manage UK Youth’s involvement in key influencing events, such as party conferences, with oversight and support from the Head of Policy and Public Affairs.

• Represent UK Youth at meetings and events – helping to disseminate insights from our work, tell the story of youth work’s impact to inspire lasting change.  

Experience we're after

• Experience working in the area of policy and public affairs or equivalent experience in other areas (such as through an apprenticeship, volunteering role, or university)

• Experience of project management

• Experience of understanding and communicating with different audiences

• Strong relational and stakeholder engagement skills

What we can offer you

We offer a competitive range of benefits, good work/life balance, excellent learning and development opportunities and vibrant organisational culture:

• Flexible/Agile Working

• 27 days annual leave (24 days + 3 days winter closure) plus bank holidays (pro rata for part time employees)

• Funded training provided in; Safeguarding, GDPR, Information and Cyber Security & Equality & Diversity

• Other training available in support of your personal and professional development

• Pension scheme (currently UK Youth match employee contributions up to 5%)

• Membership of our life insurance scheme which would pay-out up to 4 times your salary

• Employee Assistance Programme to support employees both professionally and personally

• 20% discount off bookings at Avon Tyrrell, our New Forest Outdoor Centre, including camping, lodges and outdoor activities.

• IT equipment provided for the duration of contract

• CycleScheme and TechScheme

How to apply

If you would like to be considered for this fantastic opportunity, please complete an application via our completely anonymised recruitment system provided by Applied which looks to create a fair and unbiased application process for all. Scroll to the top of the page and start your application.

Closing date: 29th June 2026 at 23:59 (midnight)

Provisional Interview Dates: w/c 6th July 2026

As this role involves working in a regulated environment with young people, any offer will be conditional to satisfactory background checks, which include criminal record check and employment reference.

Endometriosis UK is looking for a Head of Finance to help shape the next stage of our development as a charity with growing ambition, increasing complexity and a powerful mission. This is an exciting new role for the charity, and is core to ensuring our ongoing success.

As a member of the Senior Leadership Team, you will work closely with the Chief Executive, senior colleagues and Trustees to shape organisational direction, strengthen financial planning and ensure resources are aligned with impact. You will provide strategic financial insight, constructive challenge and practical support across the organisation.

You will lead budgeting, forecasting, management accounts, statutory reporting, audit, financial governance, risk, reserves and controls. You will also support business cases, financial models, capital project oversight, trading activity and commercial decision-making.

We are looking for a qualified accountant with senior finance leadership experience, ideally gained in a charity or similarly complex organisation. You will bring strong technical finance skills, sound judgement, commercial awareness and the ability to communicate clearly with non-finance colleagues. Just as importantly, you will be collaborative, values-led and motivated by the opportunity to use finance as an enabler of delivering impact.

This role will suit someone who combines strategic leadership with a practical, hands-on approach, and who enjoys helping colleagues build financial confidence, accountability and discipline.

Are you keen on bringing our organisation’s voice to life? We are hiring an Internal Communications and Engagement Officer who will create compelling, high-impact communications that keep colleagues informed, connected, and inspired on an 18-month Fixed Term Contract basis.

You will work closely with the Internal Communications Manager, collaborating across global teams to deliver meaningful messaging, support key initiatives, and strengthen a culture of inclusion. The role contributes to fostering staff engagement and inclusion across our global organisation, including supporting office-level communications in London and internal change initiatives.

Important dates to Note: Applications close on 13 July 2026 and if you are requested to submit additional information, the deadline to have this submitted is the 16th of July for your application to be fully considered. Please also remember to check our recruitment process section at the bottom of the advert to get acquainted with our recruitment process for this role.

Key Responsibilities

• Produce and manage the weekly all-staff newsletter, proactively sourcing and coordinating content across teams and locations, thinking creatively about content presentation, and managing sign-off from the Internal Communications Manager and other stakeholders.
• Produce, manage and actively participate in all-staff communication moments, including our monthly all-staff meeting, including agendas, speaker coordination, and logistics. 
• Act as the focal point for London office internal communications, proactively coordinating local messaging, office-wide meetings, and aligning office updates with wider organisational communications.

See the job description for a full list of duties for this role.

Skills, Knowledge & Expertise

• Experience producing written content for internal audiences (e.g. newsletters, intranet content).
• Experience supporting or delivering internal communications (essential) in a complex or global organisation (desirable).
• Strong written communication skills, with the ability to write clearly, concisely and adapt messaging for different internal audiences paying particular attention to equity, diversity and inclusive practices
• Confident communicator, comfortable presenting and speaking in front of internal audiences and facilitating discussions (essential).

See the job description for a full list of duties for this role.

Job Benefits

Flexible working:  We are proud to be a Flexa accredited Employer. Visit our Flexa Employer page for more information on our approach to flexible working. Our flexible working policy allows our people the choice to decide to work from home/another location in the country where their contract of employment is issued for 80% of their month, with the other 20% of their month being office-based. See our benefits page for more: Benefits | ClientEarth Careers as well as our flexible working FAQ.
 

ClientEarth values diversity and inclusion and the benefits this brings. We aim to appoint the most suitable candidate at all times and welcome applications from people from all different backgrounds. See our Equity, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) at ClientEarth | ClientEarth journey page for more.

Please note that ClientEarth is only able to employ those who have the pre-existing legal right to work in the UK.
 

ClientEarth is not a law firm and does not provide legal advice or legal services to third parties.

Spark is looking for an inspiring leader to help lead our next chapter.

This is a part-time (20–24 hours), hands-on leadership role where you’ll work closely with staff, volunteers and trustees to shape strategy, grow projects, and strengthen community impact.

If you are:

• A confident, values-driven leader
• Passionate about supporting communities and families
• Skilled at building partnerships and driving change

we’d love to hear from you.

Spark is a friendly, community-focused charity making a real difference through the provision of services to families and residents across Burntwood. We’re looking for an inspiring and organised Chief Executive Officer to lead our work, support our team, and help shape the future of the charity.

          About the Role

This is a hands-on, people-focused leadership role where you’ll work closely with a supportive team of staff, volunteers, and trustees.

You’ll oversee key projects including:

• National Lottery Bright Beginnings Grow & Thrive (family support)

• Lichfield District Council Community Connections (support for residents)

  What You’ll Be Doing

• Demonstrating vision, energy and enthusiasm

• Leading and supporting a committed team of staff and volunteers

• Working alongside trustees to shape strategy and direction

• Developing and growing community projects

• Building strong partnerships locally

• Overseeing funding, budgets and sustainability

• Ensuring services genuinely meet local needs

  About You

• A confident and supportive leader

• A passion for provision of quality services to children and families

• Capacity for reflective practice and managing change

• Passionate about community work and making a difference

• Great communicator who enjoys working with people

• Organised and able to manage a varied workload

• Calm, flexible and solution-focused

           What You’ll Get

• A supportive and welcoming team of staff, volunteers and trustees
• Flexibility and a good work-life balance (20-24 hours negotiable dependent on candidate and skills - typically between Mon–Fri, 9–3)
• Some onsite and home working
• The chance to shape and grow a well-loved and respected award-winning local charity
• Lots of opportunity to bring ideas, develop projects, and enjoy a rewarding role whilst doing meaningful work that makes a difference
• Annual leave entitlement includes four weeks of flexible leave, to be taken at times agreed to suit your needs and service requirements, plus three additional periods of organisational closure (Christmas, Easter and a summer closure week), providing a total leave entitlement of at least six weeks per year.
• Wellbeing activities and focus
• Family friendly employer

            Key Details

• Location: Burntwood (with some home working and local travel)
• Hours: Part-time, all year round (not term-time only)
• Reporting to: Board of Trustees
• Hours: 20-24 hours per week. Dependent on candidate and experience.
• Job share/additional hours may be available.
• Salary: 37.5hr week FTE £40,775 equivalent to £20.91 an hr
• Contract: Permanent. The role is currently supported by National Lottery funding for an initial period of 3.5 years, with the CEO role being key in leading the organisation’s long-term sustainability and growth.

We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children/vulnerable adults. This role is subject to an enhanced DBS check and satisfactory references. We are committed to equality of opportunity and welcome applications from all suitably qualified candidates regardless of background, protected characteristics, or personal circumstances. We will use your personal data for recruitment purposes only, in line with UK GDPR. For further details, please see our Privacy Notice.

The deadline is 5pm 3rd July 2026

Email Spark for an application pack or more information

Role Purpose

To lead on day-to-day delivery of the advice centre provision at the Students’ Union and line manage front facing student staff at the information point. The role primarily involves the delivery of a high-quality impartial, independent, advice service to individual student members of the Students’ Union, through information, advice, guidance, signposting and referrals and working with the Head of Student-Led Change and Advice on expanding advice provision. The role-holder will also be expected to work collaboratively with colleagues across the organisation as well as the university to identify and recommend solutions to issues and concerns affecting the wider student body to improve the student experience.

Main Responsibilities and Activities

• Develop the advice centre provision ensuring it delivers a service that is appropriate for the needs of University of Salford students.
• Work to maintain and develop the skills and knowledge levels within the student-staff team, through upskilling and training where necessary.
• Assist in the development of evidence-led approaches to understand student priorities and collaborate with the Student-Led Change Lead where trends indicate that collective student action is needed.
• Line management of Student Staff, including Student Advisor and Information Point staff.
• Provide leadership and direction to student staff, ensuring they are supported to provide excellent service delivery.
• Embed a coaching culture within the student staff team to empower staff to thrive.
• To lead on day-to-day delivery of the advice centre provision and work alongside the Head of Student-Led Change and Advice to expand the service where desired.
• To undertake detailed, specialised casework related primarily to academic matters and housing issues, but more broadly on other concerns affecting student experiences.
• This will be on a one-to-one basis delivered via various methods as appropriate including telephone, email, live chat, video calling, and in person.
• To maintain accurate, confidential, and legally compliant records of student client and casework details
• To approach student casework in a holistic manner, recognising that students may require support for a range of issues both academic and non-academic.
• Signposting and referring where appropriate, ensure that students are dealt with in a supportive and wellbeing-focused manner.
• To be familiar with relevant legislation as it affects student issues and respond accordingly.
• To produce information, case studies and feedback related to student issues for the Union’s communication channels, ensuring a pro-active approach to areas of concern for the student body.
• Develop and maintain relationships with colleagues throughout the Union, University and other advice providers.
• Build effective relationships with colleagues at other students’ unions to share best practice.
• Assist with the promotion of the advice service throughout the University and to external organisations.
• Provide support to student-led groups and student leaders that provide information or advice.
• Ensure compliance with the Union’s policies, University policies and all relevant legislation – including Health and Safety, 1992 Education Act and Data Protection.
• Help our Full Time Officers achieve their manifesto commitments.
• Actively engage in student-facing projects and activities of all kinds as required.
• Be an enthusiastic advocate for student leadership and the organisation’s values.
• Maintain your own professional networks and promote the Union on a local and national level.

Person Specification

Knowledge and Experience

• Experience of providing advice and managing casework, including keeping accurate and confidential records.
• Experience of line managing staff and/or volunteers and taking a coaching approach towards their development.
• Demonstrable knowledge of and/or an appreciation of the issues currently impacting students in Higher Education

Skills and Abilities

• Ability to manage difficult or sensitive situations in a calm and empathetic way.
• Ability to demonstrate effective communication skills in a variety of situations and with diverse stakeholders.
• Ability to use Microsoft Office effectively as well as other technology such as case management systems and digital collaboration tools.
• Able to manage own caseload and to prioritise work effectively.
• A demonstrable understanding of Equality, Diversity and Inclusion and the challenges faced by students from minoritised backgrounds
• Able to demonstrate flexibility and agility in response to changing priorities and challenging situations.

Values and Behaviours

• A demonstrable commitment to Salford SU’s values, mission and purpose.
• A strong commitment to championing equality, diversity and inclusion.
• Comfortable working in a democratic, student-led environment and being an enthusiastic advocate for student voice and representation.

Policy and Research Coordinator 
Location: Hybrid (typically 3 days in the office), central Manchester with occasional travel 
Contract: Permanent, full-time
Salary: £25,000 - £30,000 
Closing date: 10am, Monday 13th July 2026 

About Belong 

Belong – The Cohesion and Integration Network is a national organisation working to strengthen social cohesion and integration across the UK. Through research, policy development and place-based programmes, we bring people together, support communities and champion approaches that help create a more connected and less divided society. 

Belong is entering an exciting new phase of growth. With a strengthened national profile, an ambitious strategy and a passionate team, we are looking for talented people who share our commitment to creating positive change. 

About the Role 

As Policy and Research Coordinator, you will play an important role in supporting the delivery of Belong’s policy and research work. Working closely with the Policy and Research Lead and wider team, you will help ensure projects are well organised, rigorous and impactful. 

This varied role combines research coordination, stakeholder engagement and project support. You will contribute to research and policy projects from planning through to dissemination, supporting activities such as literature reviews, data collection and analysis, stakeholder engagement, report writing and project administration. You will also help coordinate meetings, workshops and consultation activities, ensuring research findings and insights are effectively shared with a range of audiences. 

This is an excellent opportunity for someone who enjoys working with information and evidence, managing multiple priorities, and contributing to work that informs policy, practice and positive social change. 

About You 

You will be an organised and proactive individual with experience supporting research projects, policy development or related activities, ideally within a charity, public policy or research environment. 

You will have strong information-handling skills, with the ability to analyse, summarise and synthesise complex material clearly and accurately. Alongside excellent written and verbal communication skills, you will be comfortable building relationships with a wide range of stakeholders and managing competing priorities effectively. 

Most importantly, you will be intellectually curious, collaborative and committed to Belong’s mission and values. You will bring a solutions-focused approach, a strong attention to detail, and a genuine desire to learn and develop within a policy and research environment. 

Benefits  

• 30 days’ annual leave per year 

• Hybrid working (typically 3 days in the office) 

• Enhanced sick pay 

• Enhanced maternity and paternity pay 

How to Apply 

Please click ‘Apply’ to be redirected to our recruitment partner's site, where you can download the Candidate Information Pack and find details of how to apply. As part of your application, you will be asked to answer three questions. 

1. Please tell us about a piece of work that you are particularly proud of and the role you played in its success. (max. 300 words) 

1. Please describe a situation where you had to work with a range of different people to achieve a shared outcome. (max. 300 words) 

1. Belong works with people, communities and organisations from a wide range of backgrounds and perspectives. What values or principles guide how you work with others? (max. 300 words) 

Deadline:  10am on Monday 13th July 2026 
Interviews: 21st or 22nd July 2026 (in-person in Manchester)

For questions or to arrange an informal conversation, please contact Atkinson HR Consulting.

Belong’s Commitment to Inclusion  

Belong is committed to equity, diversity and inclusion. They welcome applications from people of all backgrounds and particularly encourage individuals from communities under-represented in the charity sector to apply. Impostor syndrome can disproportionately impact candidates from marginalised groups—if you are unsure whether to apply, we encourage you to do so.