Policy and public affairs manager jobs

The Bevan Foundation is seeking a Head of Policy (Poverty) to lead its high impact team and to deputise for the CEO whilst the current post holder is on maternity leave.

Could you lead the Bevan Foundation in its mission to end poverty in Wales?

About the Bevan Foundation

The Bevan Foundation is Wales’s most influential think tank. We create insights, ideas and impact that help to end poverty and inequality. Over recent years the Foundation has helped secure real and lasting change for people across Wales, from universal free school meals for primary pupils to increases in Education Maintenance Allowance. We’ve built a reputation for trusted, evidence-based insights and ideas that influence decision-makers and improve lives.

About the role

The Bevan Foundation has an exciting opportunity within its high impact policy and research team. This is a unique opportunity to make a contribution to our programme of work and to develop ideas to solve poverty. The post holder will also deputise for the CEO providing an opportunity to contribute to the development of the organisation’s strategic direction.

About you

You will have expertise in Welsh policy and politics, as well as an excellent research and analytical skills, superb communications skills and an ability to develop innovative solutions.

Key terms

This is a fixed-term maternity cover position for an anticipated period of 12 months.

The current post holder works four days a week. The Foundation may consider appointing someone for a full working week and this is something that could be discussed at interview.

The full time equivalent salary for this post is £51,519 – £57,980. The expectation is that the candidate would normally be appointed at the bottom of the scale.

We work in a hybrid way, with staff expected be office-based for two to three days a week and to attend monthly in-person team meetings. The Foundation’s offices are in Merthyr Tydfil. We are also open to discussing remote working within Wales for the right candidate.

We would also welcome applications from individuals seeking a secondment opportunity, subject to agreement from their current employer.

Application information can be found in the Job Specification added below.

Senior External Affairs Adviser
Contract type: Permanent
Full time: 34.5 hours, we are open to a conversation about how you work these hours
Location: Hybrid to our London, Shipley or Glasgow offices (typically once a month in office)
Salary range: £43,000 - £48,000

About us

At Macmillan you'll find talented people working together to do whatever it takes to support people living with cancer. We're going all out to find even better ways to help even more people who need our support. Our values are at the heart of who we are and everything we do, inspiring our thinking and guiding our actions.

Our organisational strategy sets out how we’ll fight even harder to make every pound raised count for even more. With your help, we’ll transform cancer care for good.

About the role

Join Macmillan Cancer Support as a Senior External Affairs Adviser, where you will play a vital role in shaping and delivering impactful change and external affairs strategies across the UK. Your work will focus on delivering at-scale change for people with cancer, particularly the most marginalised groups.

The External Affairs team is central to Macmillan’s work shaping change and influencing decision makers across the UK, and a key part of your role will be building and stewarding relationships with our external stakeholders.

As a Senior External Affairs Adviser you’ll work flexibly across a whole range of influencing projects to shape the political agenda, which might be in Wales, Scotland, Northern Ireland, at a regional level in England and in Westminster, reflecting our ambitious plans to deliver change for people with cancer across the whole of the UK.

Key responsibilities:

• Provide senior-level advice to develop external affairs strategies aligned with Macmillan’s mission.
• Lead cross-functional external affairs projects that are evidence-based and impactful.
• Develop and manage relationships with political stakeholders, policymakers, civil servants and healthcare providers.
• Provide high-quality insight and briefings to senior colleagues on the political landscape, and what the external opportunities and risks are.
• Anticipate shifts within the external environment and adapt approaches to maintain our relevance and influence.
• Collaborate with teams to ensure policy positions are strategic and evidence-based.
• Represent Macmillan at external events, advocating for improvements in cancer care.
• Coordinate campaigns to influence public policy and funding decisions.

About you

The successful candidate will have...

• Proven ability to manage complex and sensitive external contexts, making sound judgements on tone and messaging.
• Strong understanding of operating within a four-nations context and engaging with diverse stakeholders, including senior politicians and civil servants.
• Expertise in analysing complex policy issues and developing impactful, evidence-based policy positions.
• Strong organisational skills and flexibility to adapt to changing circumstances and emerging issues.
• Excellent communication skills which are adaptable for external and internal audiences.
• Experience of working in multi-disciplinary teams or on multi-disciplinary projects.

Recruitment process

Application deadline: 23:59 on Monday 31st August
1st stage interview dates: Virtual interviews will be held on the week commencing 7th September
2nd stage interview dates: Virtual interviews will be held on the weeks commencing 14th or 21st September

To ensure fairness and consistency to select the best candidate for this role, all our applications are anonymised up until an interview has been confirmed.

So we can support you to be your best during the application or interview process, please contact Macmillan TA Team for advice and reasonable adjustments.

We welcome applications from everyone who meet the criteria and strongly encourage individuals to apply who have a disability, impairment or health condition or individuals who identify as Black, Asian or from another minority ethnic background, as these groups are currently under-represented at Macmillan. Our Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Strategy along with our internal employee representation body, ‘Our Voice’ and 8 Employee Network groups help us promote fairness and belonging, becoming an engaged and inclusive organisation for all our people.

External Affairs Adviser 
Contract type: Permanent 
Full time: 34.5 hours, we are open to a conversation about how you work these hours 
Location: Hybrid or mobile worker (depending on where in the UK you are based) with regular travel expected. As part of our business need and commitment to having representation across the four nations of the UK, we will be prioritising applicants from Northern Ireland. However, we will be considering applications from across the UK. 
Salary range: £35,200 - £39,200

About us

At Macmillanyou'llfind talented people working together to do whatever it takes to support people living with cancer.We'regoing all out to find even better ways to help even more people who need our support. Our values are at the heart of who we are and everything we do, inspiring our thinking and guiding our actions. 

Our organisational strategy sets out howwe’llfight even harder to make every pound raised count for even more. With your help,we’lltransform cancer care for good.

About the role

Do you have experience influencing change and navigating complex political systems? We are looking for an External Affairs Adviser to join our wider Partnerships team at Macmillan to help us to deliver meaningful change for people with cancer, particularly the most marginalised groups. 

The External Affairs team is central to Macmillan’s work shaping change and influencing decision makers across the UK, and a key part of your role will be building and stewarding relationships with our external stakeholders.

As an External Affairs Adviser you’ll work flexibly across a whole range of influencing projects to shape the political agenda, which might be in Wales, Scotland, Northern Ireland, at a regional level in England and in Westminster, reflecting our ambitious plans to deliver change for people with cancer across the whole of the UK.

You’ll be exposed to a variety of political systems, decision makers and ways of working that will allow you to build on and develop your skills in public affairs, policy analysis, relationship management and communication.

About you

The successful candidate will demonstrate the following skills and experience: 

• Experience of influencing change - this might be from working in a charity, for a politician, in local or national government, a public affairs agency or think tank.
• Experience analysing and translating data and evidence into external messaging to influence a wide range of audiences. 
• Experience of working in at least one political context in the UK, and willingness to adapt your skills to working within a wide range of influencing environments and different stakeholders. 
• An adaptable approach, with a willingness to respond to quickly changing external circumstances and work at pace to navigate through complex issues.
• Experience of working in multi-disciplinary teams and working collaboratively with others to deliver projects.

In return, we offer a range of benefits including: 

• 25 days holiday plus flexible bank holiday options, increasing by 1 day every year of service up to 30 days 
• Pension matched up to 7.5% 
• 120+ learning and development offers, with access to external professional qualifications 
• Flexible working patterns, such as compressed hours, flexibility to work earlier or later around our core working hours of 10am-4pm 
• Holiday buying and selling scheme, life insurance, free wills, retail discounts and much more 

Recruitment process

Application deadline: 23:59 on Monday 31st August
1st stage interviewdates:Virtual interviews will be held on the week commencing 14th September
2nd stage interview dates: Virtual interviews will be held on the week commencing 21st September 

To ensure fairness and consistency to select the best candidate for this role, all our applications are anonymised up until an interview has been confirmed. 

So we can support you to be your best during the application or interview process, please contact Macmillan TA Team for advice and reasonable adjustments. 

We welcome applications from everyone who meet the criteria and strongly encourage individuals to apply who have a disability, impairment or health condition or individuals who identify as Black, Asian or from another minority ethnic background, as these groups are currently under-represented at Macmillan. Our Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Strategyalong with our internal employee representation body, ‘Our Voice’ and 8 Employee Network groups help us promote fairness and belonging, becoming an engaged and inclusive organisation for all our people. 

The British Psychological Society is the membership and representative body for psychologists and the wider psychological professions in the UK.

We are seeking a Senior Policy & Public Affairs Adviser to join our friendly Policy & Public Affairs team. This is a great opportunity to support the BPS’ advocacy and policy objectives, helping ensure that the views and expertise of psychologists are heard by key decision makers.

The Senior Policy & Public Affairs Adviser works across member networks, political and government stakeholders, analysing policy developments and seeking opportunities to influence national policy on behalf of our members. Our members work across a range of sectors, including health, education, justice, sports and exercise, so the post-holder will be required to collaborate with a wide range of members, teams and external partners to deliver impactful outcomes and shared goals.

Why join us?

• Influence policy on nationally significant issues across the UK
• Work directly with politicians, government officials and senior stakeholders
• Collaborate with leading psychologists and subject matter experts
• Represent a respected professional body with a trusted voice
• Play a visible role in delivering policy change.

What you'll be doing

• Drive policy development and produce briefing materials
• Monitor Westminster, Whitehall and other administrations
• Manage consultations and consultation responses
• Represent BPS at policy forums and stakeholder groups
• Build strong relationships with members and policymakers.

Who will thrive in this role?

We are looking for someone with significant experience of working in a policy, public affairs or political capacity with a strong understanding of Westminster and political decision-making.

Oral and written communication must be your strength, with the ability to influence, engage and build relationships with different audiences and stakeholders. The post-holder will be required to collaborate across teams and with external partners to deliver impactful policy outcomes.

We offer a friendly, values led working culture with an excellent benefits package that includes:

• Agile & flexible working·     
• Generous leave entitlement
• Occupational pension scheme
• Cycle to work scheme / free eye care vouchers / Winter flu vaccinations
• Tailored learning & development
• Employee Assistance Programme
• Life Assurance Scheme
• Discounts scheme with national organisations

How to apply

To apply, please submit your CV and a covering letter detailing how you meet the criteria in the job profile by 6th September at 23:30. Please note that applications without a covering letter will not be progressed. Interviews will be on-line 23rd-25th September.

The British Psychological Society is committed to a culture of equality, diversity and inclusion. We welcome applications from all sections of the community, irrespective of your background or circumstances. We are only able to accept applications that can demonstrate a right to work in the UK as we are unable to sponsor people requiring a work visa. Due to the large number of applications we receive, it is not possible to update you on the progress of the application until after the closing date.  If you have not heard from us within three weeks of the closing date, please assume that your application has not been successful on this occasion.

Would you like to help create a brighter future for nature? 

Wildlife and Countryside Link is a coalition of 97 environmental charities. We are looking for a Policy and Public Affairs Officer to help develop, advocate and win policy improvements for nature, with a particular focus on the marine environment. 

The Government has promised to halt the decline of wildlife and protect 30% of land and sea for nature by 2030. The marine environment is on the frontline of action – how can we restore habitats at the same time as huge investment in renewable energy? How can we restore fish stocks in a way that supports the future of coastal communities? How can we lead the way on reducing the pollution that is blighting our seas?

We are looking for an enthusiastic and dedicated Policy and Public Affairs Officer to help environmental organisations agree bold answers to key questions like these. This role will manage our marine, bycatch and marine mammal working groups to secure ambitious progress of protection and recovery of the marine environment. This is an exciting opportunity to be to work alongside some of the leading experts in marine policy to deliver joint policy that will transform nature at sea.

You will also play a key role in delivering environmental priorities to key influencers in Government and in Parliament. 

So, we are looking for someone with a keen eye for detail, a good networker with the ability to listen and negotiate, and a reasoned and convincing style of written and verbal communication, with a passion for nature conservation.

About the role: AMRC is looking for a policy officer to join our small but highly influential policy and public affairs team, working at the heart of the medical research community. You will support our influencing and advocacy work, helping build a thriving research environment that facilitates innovation. We work with government and policy makers to ensure that our charities can invest in a healthy and sustainable research system across universities and the NHS. You will undertake analysis and horizon scanning to enable us to keep our members up-to-date, and you will support the development of AMRC’s policy activity. You will support activities in many areas of work including improving the sustainability of charity-university research; enhancing research careers, translation and infrastructure; maintaining a facilitative legislative and regulatory environment; and enhancing charity-industry partnerships, helping research findings to be translated into treatments, policy and practice more quickly. There will also be a public affairs dimension to the role that includes work with the APPG for Life Sciences, for which AMRC is part of the secretariat. 

Please see our website for the job description and application instructions. 

Job Title: Parliamentary and Public Affairs Manager

Reporting to: Director of Campaigns

Line reports: None

Salary: £44,350 per annum pro-rata (£ 35,480 per annum for 4 days per week)

Hours: 4 days (30 hours) or 5 days (37.5 hours) per week, with flexibility over working hours (core hours are 10.00-16.00).

Duration: 1-year contract renewable subject to funding

Start Date: As soon as possible

Location: London/Hybrid – minimum 2 days in the office (core days in the office are Tues & Weds) further office attendance is encouraged

Anti-oppressive statement

Foodrise is actively seeking to move through an anti-racist and anti-oppressive journey in every aspect of its work. We acknowledge that the environmental sector is less open to people from under-represented backgrounds, and we are strongly committed to identifying and correcting where we may be perpetuating patriarchal, white supremacist values and other forms of oppression in our organisational culture, partnerships, and community work. We especially want to hear from you if you feel that you have lived experience of power structures preventing you from accessing opportunities like this.

Read our full Equity, Justice and Anti-oppression statement.

Inclusive Recruitment

We have an opt-in Enhanced Chance Interview Scheme for candidates who declare a disability and/or are a person of colour and meet the essential criteria of the role profile. The scheme aims to provide a first-stage interview for candidates who meet the essential criteria of the role and opt in to the scheme.

If you would like to be considered under this scheme you must meet the essential minimum criteria for the role as outlined on the job description. You should take time to provide examples that you meet each of the essential criteria in your cover letter. Please ensure you select the relevant tick box on the application page ‘Enhanced Chance Interview Scheme’.

We are always happy to speak to candidates informally about the role before applying and encourage you to do so by contacting us.

About Us

Foodrise is a charity transforming the food system for climate, nature and justice. 

We take bold action to uncover the root causes of injustice in our food system and expose how corporate power exploits people and the planet, while building truly just and resilient alternatives from the ground-up.

We speak truth to power. We take risks. We act where and when others won’t.

From launching legal action and producing hard-hitting research to working directly with local communities, we drive systemic change across food and farming, powered by grassroots energy and backed by the facts.

We exist to say what others won’t, do what others don’t, and never settle for “it can’t be done”. Change is possible, and we are rising to make it happen.

We are based in the UK and the Netherlands. See more about us on our website.

About the Role

The Parliamentary and Public Affairs Manager is a brand-new role for Foodrise. The successful candidate will lead on developing our first public and parliamentary affairs strategy to engage with political representatives and policymakers to advance our campaigning objectives and ensure progress towards our new strategic goals:

• Dismantling the animal industrial complex and supporting the transition to plant-rich food
• Eroding the social licence of large supermarkets and building alternative food economies

Ultimately, this role is about securing wins to meet our vision of a greener, fairer food system, where food is a commons, not a commodity.

This role is key to shaping public policy and legislative outcomes by building relationships, influencing decision-makers, and positioning Foodrise as an ambitious yet trusted voice in Westminster, Holyrood and amongst civil society across the UK. This role will work collaboratively with colleagues across campaigns, so would suit an adaptive candidate with strong communication skills, keen to advocate for Foodrise.

Job Description

Parliamentary and Public Affairs Strategy

• Develop and deliver a public affairs strategy aligned with organisational priorities and campaigns
• Identify and maximise opportunities to influence legislation, policy development, and public debate
• Monitor the UK political landscape, including Parliament, Government departments, and devolved administrations

Political Engagement & Influencing

• Build and maintain strong relationships with MPs, Peers, civil servants, special advisers, and political stakeholders
• Lead engagement with All-Party Parliamentary Groups (APPGs), select committees, and public consultations
• Draft and coordinate parliamentary briefings, speeches, amendments, parliamentary questions and responses
• Work with lawyers to draft proposed legislation and legislative changes in support of our objectives
• Register for the UK lobbying register and keep our account up to date
• Lead high-impact advocacy moments such as parliamentary events, receptions, and policy launches

 Integration of Parliamentary/Advocacy Asks into Foodrise’s Wider Work

• Work closely with campaigns and communications teams to integrate parliamentary and public affairs into campaigns
• Work closely with fundraisers and senior leadership to integrate parliamentary and policy asks in our fundraising and business development
• Ensure consistent and compelling advocacy messaging across all channels
• Provide regular updates and analysis on political developments relevant to the organisation’s work
• Track and evaluate the impact of public affairs activities
• Maintain accurate stakeholder records and engagement logs
• Work closely with our colleagues at Foodrise in the EU to support EU level advocacy where relevant to our campaigns
• Any other relevant tasks as requested by senior colleagues to support the organisation and further our objectives

Ways of Working

• Collaborative by default; independent work is balanced with regular coordination.
• Contribute to the development and embedding of anti-oppressive work across the organisation
• Flexible and adaptable in response to changing priorities.
• Present and available for colleagues, including regular in‑office presence.
• Proactive in communication, planning, and follow‑through.

Person Specification

Essential Knowledge, Experience and Network

• Extensive experience in public affairs, government relations, or political advocacy (at least 7 years’ working experience)
• Strong understanding of the UK political system, legislative processes, and policy-making
• Networks within the UK political and policy systems
• Knowledge of the key issues in food systems, environment and/or climate in the UK

Essential Skills

• Demonstrable experience of influencing political representatives, policymakers and delivering policy or campaign wins
• Excellent writing, analytical and research skills.
• Excellent organisational skills, with strong attention to detail.
• Outstanding communication, interpersonal and presentation skills.
• The ability to work collaboratively; build, maintain and develop flexible working relationships with internal and external stakeholders.

What You Will Bring to Foodrise

• A can-do attitude, flexibility and adaptability, alongside a willingness to pitch in on delivery and help colleagues across the team, recognising that Foodrise is a small, nimble organisation with fast-changing priorities.
• An understanding of anti-oppressive practice and how it applies to Foodrise’s work and the role, and the ability to represent diverse perspectives through the work of the organisation.
• Sharing Foodrise’s values: audacity, collaboration, impact, celebration, solidarity.
• Willingness to undertake some limited travel domestically and abroad.

What We Offer

• Personal training and wellbeing funds
• Regular team socials
• Workplace pension
• Enhanced parental leave
• Enhanced sick leave
• Cycle to Work scheme
• Home & Tech scheme
• Flexible working hours (core hours 10am-4pm)

How to Apply

Please apply via Charity Jobs with:

• Your CV (no longer than 2 A4 pages total) 
• A cover letter (no longer than 1 A4 page) explaining how you meet the criteria in the person specification with examples, and why you would like to work at Foodrise. 

Deadline to apply: 10am, Tuesday 22nd September

Successful candidates for interview will be notified by Thursday 24th September.

Shortlisted candidates will be sent our new strategy ahead of the interview, along with details of an hour-long written task to be completed at home – this will be sent prior to the interview at a time convenient for you.

First round interviews will be held on Thursday 1st October.

Second round interviews will be held on Thursday 8th October.

Sign up to join our Recruitment Q&A Zoom session on Wednesday 2nd September, 12-1pm. Our HR & Operations Manager will talk through the recruitment process and answer any questions you may have. Please note that this session is focussed on the recruitment process. If you have any questions specific to the role, please contact us.

For any questions, access requirements, or if you require the job description in a different format, please contact us.

AI policy – We understand that you may use AI to help with your application, however we want to hear your authentic voice throughout your application.

Liberty is looking for a mission-focussed, bold and strategic leader with strong political instincts to step into the exciting role of Director of External Affairs.

Liberty has launched an ambitious new strategy in a rapidly changing external environment, where existential threats to human rights and civil liberties give our work a renewed sense of urgency. 

Leading our external relations directorate, you will work across policy and public affairs, communications and engagement, and legal, to deliver our strategy, shape national debate, influence decision-makers, and strengthen Liberty’s reputation as a trusted, principled and independent voice on human rights and civil liberties. You will build influential and impactful relationships with government, decision-makers, think tanks, NGOs and media partners, and explore new partnerships across other sectors to broaden our impact and reach. 

You will have the experience and skills to lead and inspire teams, embed effective cross-team systems and practice, and deliver high-impact work in a fast-paced and challenging external context. 

You will have exceptional delivery skills, as well as demonstrable experience delivering through and across external-facing functions in multi-disciplinary and complex mission-driven, values-based organisations, balancing both longer-term proactive work as well as reactive work. You will need to demonstrate exceptional political judgement and insight, a proven track record of influencing, and strong experience of managing organisational risk in a fast-paced, complex and sometimes hostile external context. You will have an excellent grasp of detail as well as the ability to communicate complex issues well to a wide variety of stakeholders, including as a leading spokesperson for Liberty. 

As a member of a small Senior Leadership Team, you will be delivering organisation-wide work for which you will need demonstrable experience of leading and delivering complex internal work, excellent communications skills, the confidence and experience to embed a values-based approach across organisational functions, and the ability to work collaboratively and in an agile way in a small leadership team. 

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, and there is a minimum office requirement of 2 days per week however, the Senior Leadership Team typically work from the office at least 3 days per week.

The deadline for applications is 9am, Monday 14 September 2026

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 Tuesday 22 September 2026

Second round interview will be held in person on Friday 2 October 2026

Please note that due to team capacity we cannot offer alternative interview dates so please do ensure you hold these dates before you apply.

Who we are

IPSEA (Independent Provider of Special Education Advice) is a national charity working to ensure that children and young people with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) receive the educational support they are legally entitled to. Since we were formed in 1983, we have helped to improve the education experience of thousands of children and young people across England. We do this by providing free and independent legal advice and casework support for families, undertaking policy work and delivering training on the SEND legal framework.

What you’ll do

Reports to: Chief Executive

Location: Home-based or Hybrid (with frequent travel for events and meeting with parliamentarians and other stakeholders) 

We are seeking a Policy Manager to lead IPSEA's policy and influencing work to achieve positive change for children and young people with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) and their families. Working closely with the Chief Executive, Head of Legal and Training, trustees and colleagues across the organisation, you will set strategic policy priorities and develop evidence-based influencing plans that support IPSEA's mission and long-term objectives.

Drawing on insights from our advice and tribunal services, legal expertise and the experiences of families, you will identify systemic issues within the SEND system and develop policy solutions that improve children and young people's access to the support and education to which they are entitled. You will ensure that IPSEA's policy positions are credible, legally robust and informed by the lived experiences of those we support.

You will lead IPSEA's engagement with government, Parliament and other key decision-makers, identifying opportunities to influence legislation, policy and practice at both national and local level. This includes overseeing responses to consultations, parliamentary inquiries and calls for evidence, as well as preparing briefings and strategic advice to support senior-level engagement and advocacy.

Working collaboratively with colleagues across legal, communications, fundraising and training teams, you will ensure IPSEA's policy, campaigning and public affairs activities are aligned and maximise the organisation's impact. You will also monitor developments across the political, legal and policy landscape, helping IPSEA respond proactively to emerging opportunities and challenges affecting the rights of children and young people with SEND.

This role offers the opportunity to make a real difference as part of a small, friendly, and dedicated team. If you are passionate about helping children and young people with SEND and have the skills and experience needed, we would love to hear from you.

Who are we looking for?

You will have significant experience in a senior policy and campaigning/public affairs role and have good knowledge of local and national government structure including the legislative process.

You the ability to build and maintain relationships with a range of stakeholders including MPs, civil servants, campaigners and parents. You exhibit tact and diplomacy and can be impactful with people of varying levels and experience.

Your research and critical thinking skills enable you to analyse policy and data to produce relevant reports and position papers. You have experience of drafting organisation responses to government consultations and parliamentary calls for evidence.

IPSEA should also reflect the communities we support. We would particularly like to hear from candidates from ethnic minority backgrounds, LGBTQIA+ people, under-served communities and disabled people, as well as those with lived experience of the SEND system, either as a child or as a parent/carer.

What we can offer you

• 5% employer pension contributions
• Healthcare cash plan
• Flexible working arrangements
• 25 days annual leave plus bank holidays plus an additional day off for your birthday (pro-rata if part-time).

To apply

Visit our website to download a recruitment pack and application form.

Deadline for applications: 9am on 7 September 2026.

First-round interviews: on 15 September 2026 in our offices in Takeley, Essex, with second-round interviews (online) on 18 September 2026.

NO AGENCIES PLEASE.

Policy Engagement Manager - 12-month Fixed Term Contract

At The National Lottery Community Fund we are passionate about strengthening communities and improving lives.  We are driven by our strategy, ‘It starts with community’ and its four community-led missions, as well as our equity-based approach to tackling poverty, discrimination and disadvantage.

To help us in supporting our communities in Wales, we are now looking for a motivated Policy Engagement Manager with a strong understanding of the social policy context, and the environment in which our grantholders operate.  You will play a key role in shaping and strengthening our engagement with government, voluntary and community sector organisations, and funding partners. Working closely with the Head of Policy and Engagement in Wales, you will help build influential relationships, provide strategic policy insight, and ensure that the experiences of communities inform our funding and development priorities. You will play a key role in enabling the Fund to use our insight, position and influence in Wales to celebrate and promote the power and expertise of communities.

Key Responsibilities

As Policy Engagement Manager, you will be an excellent relationship-builder with a strong understanding of the voluntary, community and social enterprise sector. You will be comfortable working across complex stakeholder environments and translating policy developments into practical insight, including providing insight and policy context to inform medium and long-term funding initiatives across the UK.

You will develop a thorough understanding of the policy environment relating to our four community-led missions and our commitment to addressing poverty, discrimination and disadvantage through an equity-based approach. 

You will maintain a broad understanding of the political and social context in which our grantholders operate, convening grantholders and stakeholders to explore shared challenges and opportunities. We’re looking for someone who is values-driven, passionate about the Fund’s purpose and deeply committed to equity, diversity and inclusion. We invite you to join our team and contribute your skills and experience to creating lasting change for communities and society.

Regular travel around Wales is expected, as well as some travel to other parts of the UK to connect with colleagues.  We offer a flexible and supportive working environment and an excellent all-round benefits package.

The successful candidate must have an understanding of Welsh language legislation and the Welsh Language Standards of the Fund. Ability to communicate in Welsh is desirable.

Interview Details:

Date: 21 September 2026

Format: In Person

Location: Cardiff, Wales

Our office is in Cardiff, but we are flexible about location within Wales. We have a hybrid approach to working.

For an informal discussion about the role, please contact the recruitment team.

For any questions about the recruitment process, please email the recruitment team.

How to apply:

Upload your CV in word format and write a supporting statement (1000 words) with the following criteria, we will use this to score your application.

Essential criteria

• Experience of engaging with government, public sector, VCSE or funding stakeholders.
• A strong grasp and knowledge of the policy environment and the developing issues and themes relevant to our Missions and grantholders in Wales.
• Experience of analysing and interpreting policy and political developments.
• Demonstrable strategic influencing skills
• Strong communication and facilitation skills, with the ability to engage diverse audiences.
• Ability to work collaboratively across teams and contribute to strategic planning and development.
• Understanding of the use of digital tools and systems to manage relationships, share information and support policy development.
• Experience of project management

Equity, Diversity and Inclusion 

Communities in the UK come in all shapes and sizes. National Lottery funding is for everyone – therefore, we are committed to equity, diversity and inclusion and we work hard to ensure our funding reaches where it is needed.  

We also believe our people should represent the communities, organisations and individuals we work with. That’s why The National Lottery Community Fund is committed to being an inclusive employer and a great place to work. We recognise and celebrate the fact that our people come from diverse backgrounds. We positively welcome applications from people from ethnic minority backgrounds, people with disabilities or longstanding health conditions, people who are LGBTQ+, and people from different socio-economic and educational backgrounds, as well as people of all ages. 

As a Disability Confident Employer, we take a proactive approach in making reasonable adjustments, if needed, throughout the recruitment process and during employment. (This can be related to a physical and mental health condition.) 

ABOUT CHEFS IN SCHOOLS

Chefs in Schools exists to improve children’s health and futures through better school food and meaningful food education.

We work alongside schools and catering teams to transform what children eat every day, particularly in communities facing the greatest barriers to good health. We combine practical support, training, operational expertise and sector influence to help schools serve fresh, nutritious food that children want to eat.

We’re backed by some of the biggest names in food and are ambitious about both impact and scale. We want every child to have access to excellent school food and a real food education, regardless of background.

We are a values-led organisation - bold, honest, collaborative, innovative and focused on solutions.

WHY THIS ROLE MATTERS

You will lead the delivery of Chefs in Schools External Affairs function, ultimately ensuring there is widespread recognition that poor quality school food is unacceptable. Through integrated media, digital and advocacy work, you’ll ensure quality school food is viewed as a vital tool for healthy development and food literacy. 

You will turn strategic direction into coordinated delivery, leading a multidisciplinary team that increases our influence, strengthens our reputation and helps achieve meaningful improvements in school food.

Working closely with External Affairs colleagues and Chief Executive, you will ensure our public profile, policy influence and media work reinforce one another, while creating the management capacity required for a growing organisation. This builds on the new functional structure where media and content, policy and campaigns, and the School Food Review programme all sit within External Affairs.

We want Chefs in Schools to become the most trusted and recognisable voice in the conversation around school food and food literacy. This role will play a central part in building that influence and recognition.

We are looking for somebody who understands that influence is built through consistency, credibility, creativity and cultural relevance as much as through formal communications activity alone. 

WHAT YOU’LL BE RESPONSIBLE FOR

Leadership

• Lead the day-to-day operation of the External Affairs team.

• Translate organisational strategy into clear plans and objectives.

• Ensure media, content creation, campaigns, policy and coalition activity reinforce one another.

• Set priorities and allocate resources across competing work.

• Develop team capability through coaching, support and performance management.

• Contribute to organisational strategy and annual planning.

• Advise on reputational opportunities and risks.

• Ensure innovation is embedded at the heart of our work and approach.

• Deputise at SLT level where appropriate.

• Represent the organisation externally.

• Build a collaborative, ambitious, solutions-focused culture.

Operational planning

• Develop and oversee the annual External Affairs plan in line with strategy.

• Coordinate campaign calendars, policy priorities, publications and media moments.

• Ensure external activity supports fundraising, programmes and partnerships.

• Monitor delivery against KPIs and adjust plans where required.

Campaigns and public engagement

• Provide strategic oversight of policy development and campaigning.

• Challenge and refine policy recommendations before publication.

• Ensure campaigns are evidence-led and aligned with organisational strategy.

• Support relationships with government, sector leaders and coalition partners.

• Build strong relationships with media, MPs, councillors and key stakeholders.

Media & communications

• Oversee media strategy and organisational messaging.

• Ensure consistency across press, social media, website, publications and events.

• Identify media moments and hard hitting stories that will hit the headlines. 

• Sign off major messaging and communications.

• Lead communications planning around major announcements or crises.

School Food Review 

• Provide strategic oversight of the School Food Review programme.

• Ensure coalition work complements Chefs in Schools wider influencing strategy.

• Support senior relationships with coalition partners and funders.

• Remove barriers to delivery for the Programme Manager.

Budget & governance

• Manage the External Affairs budget.

• Ensure safeguarding, risk management and governance requirements are met.

• Oversee procurement of agencies and consultants.

ABOUT YOU

Essential experience and skills

• Significant senior leadership experience across media relations, campaigns, policy or public affairs.

• Experience managing multidisciplinary teams.

• Strong operational planning skills.

• Excellent political judgement.

• Experience influencing senior stakeholders.

• Outstanding written and verbal communication.

• Strong project and budget management.

• Comfortable balancing long-term strategy with fast-paced reactive work.

• Strong understanding of the UK media landscape and digital channels. 

• Excellent communication skills – written, verbal and visual. 

• Experience of working with MPs and other key stakeholders.

• Strong alignment with the mission and values of Chefs in Schools.

Desirable

• Education, food systems or public health experience.

• Coalition leadership.

• Charity senior management.

• Experience working with ministers, journalists and on national campaigns.

OUR COMMITMENT TO INCLUSION

We know that strong candidates may not meet every single requirement listed in this job description.

If this role excites you and you believe you could make a strong contribution to our mission, we would encourage you to apply.

We are committed to building a diverse, equitable and inclusive organisation where people from different backgrounds, experiences and communities can thrive.

Policy Engagement Manager - 12-month Fixed Term Contract

At The National Lottery Community Fund we are passionate about strengthening communities and improving lives.  We are driven by our strategy, ‘It starts with community’ and its four community-led missions, as well as our equity-based approach to tackling poverty, discrimination and disadvantage.

To help us in supporting communities in Scotland, we are now looking for a motivated Policy Engagement Manager with a strong understanding of the social policy context in Scotland, and the environment in which our grantholders operate. You will play a key role in shaping and strengthening our engagement with government, voluntary and community sector organisations, and funding partners. Working closely with the Head of Policy Engagement in Scotland, you will help build influential relationships, provide strategic policy insight, and ensure that the experiences of communities inform our funding and development priorities. You will play a key role in enabling the Fund to use our insight, position and influence in Scotland to celebrate and promote the power and expertise of communities.

Key Responsibilities

As Policy Engagement Manager, you will be an excellent relationship-builder with a strong understanding of the voluntary, community and social enterprise sector. You will be comfortable working across complex stakeholder environments and translating policy developments into practical insight, including providing insight and policy context to inform medium and long-term funding initiatives across the UK.

You will develop a thorough understanding of the policy environment relating to our four community-led missions and our commitment to addressing poverty, discrimination and disadvantage through an equity-based approach. 

You will maintain a broad understanding of the policy and social context in which our grantholders operate, convening grantholders and stakeholders to explore shared challenges and opportunities. We’re looking for someone who is values-driven, passionate about the Fund’s purpose and deeply committed to equity, diversity and inclusion. We invite you to join our team and contribute your skills and experience to creating lasting change for communities and society.

Regular travel around Scotland is expected, as well as some travel to other parts of the UK to connect with colleagues.  We offer a flexible and supportive working environment and an excellent all-round benefits package.

Interview Details

Date: 17th September 2026

Format: In Person

Location: Glasgow -  We have a hybrid approach to working.

We will be hosting a briefing session  on Wednesday 26th August at 1 pm. This is a great opportunity to learn more about the role, gain insight into the team and key responsibilities, and ask any questions you may have. To register or ask any questions please email the recruitment team.

How to apply:

Upload your CV in word format and write a supporting statement (1000 words) with the following criteria, we will use this to score your application.

Essential Criteria

• Experience of engaging with government, public sector, VCSE or funding stakeholders.
• A strong grasp and knowledge of the policy environment and the developing issues and themes relevant to our Missions and grantholders in Scotland.
• Experience of analysing and interpreting policy and political developments.
• Demonstrable strategic influencing skills.
• Strong communication including written communication and facilitation skills, with the ability to engage diverse audiences.
• Ability to work collaboratively across teams and contribute to strategic planning and development.
• Understanding of the use of digital tools and systems to manage relationships, share information and support policy development.
• Experience of project management

Equity, Diversity and Inclusion

Communities in the UK come in all shapes and sizes. National Lottery funding is for everyone – therefore, we are committed to equity, diversity and inclusion and we work hard to ensure our funding reaches where it is needed.  

We also believe our people should represent the communities, organisations and individuals we work with. That’s why The National Lottery Community Fund is committed to being an inclusive employer and a great place to work. We recognise and celebrate the fact that our people come from diverse backgrounds. We positively welcome applications from people from ethnic minority backgrounds, people with disabilities or longstanding health conditions, people who are LGBTQ+, and people from different socio-economic and educational backgrounds, as well as people of all ages. 

As a Disability Confident Employer, we take a proactive approach in making reasonable adjustments, if needed, throughout the recruitment process and during employment. (This can be related to a physical and mental health condition.) 

Public Affairs and Media Officer (Westminster)
£33,419 - £36,891 pa plus excellent benefits
London and hybrid working
35 hours per week, full-time

As Public Affairs and Media Officer, you willsupport the policy, public affairs and influencing activities of the College in line with agreed priorities, focusing on our engagement in Westminster and with the UK Government.

You will provide comprehensive monitoring of political and legislative developments in Westminster to ensure the College can proactively influence decision makers and to ensure our members are kept up to date.

You will also support our proactive and reactive media and communications activity related to our political influencing in Westminster.

The College values a diverse workforce and welcomes applications from all sections of the community, reflecting the population it serves.

We are committed to building and maintaining an inclusive and supportive culture, a place where we can all be ourselves and succeed on merit. We aim to promote a more inclusive environment, which attracts all candidates and signals our commitment to celebrate and promote diversity.

We will provide appropriate reasonable adjustments for candidates who may have a disability.

We only recruit the best and in return for your commitment the College offers an attractive salary and benefits.

We operate a hybrid working model of on-site and working from home/remote, which helps to ensure a flexible work life balance.

We welcome applications from all sections of the Community.

The Royal College of Psychiatrists is the professional membership body for psychiatrists and promotes excellent care for people with mental illness. It has 19,000 members and engages with government and the media as the leading voice of the UK’s mental health services. The College is a values-based organisation and, in 2019, was named Charity of the Year in the European Diversity Awards.

Closing date: 1 September 2026
Interviews: 16 September 2026

About us

Carers UK is the leading national charity for unpaid carers. Our support, advice, information and campaigning work are needed now more than ever, with unpaid carers providing more hours of care than ever before, which is adversely impacting on their finances, health and wellbeing. We exist to make life better for carers and bring about lasting change.

About the role

This is an exciting opportunity to join a small, high performing team. This varied role sits at the heart of the policy and campaigns team, working in the policy detail to support key campaigns as well as media functions, including lots of interaction with supporters and carers. The role plays a vital part in delivering the charity’s core aims to make life better for carers by. Working closely with our communications team, this role spans across media, policy, public affairs and campaigns.

About you

Do you thrive in a fast-paced environment? Do you have media or campaigns work experience? Do you want to make life better for unpaid carers? Then this could be the ideal role for you!

We’re looking for a diligent and organised individual, who has an eye for details and the ability to juggle a varied workload. Collaborative in approach, you’ll have exceptional written communication skills and an interest in media and policy.

Diversity and inclusion

Carers UK is committed to becoming a diverse and truly inclusive organisation; fostering an environment and working culture that celebrates and promotes diversity and inclusion.  We strive to create a workplace where our colleagues and volunteers can truly be themselves and feel like they belong and constantly seek to ensure all voices are heard.

To embrace this culture of diversity, our employee and volunteer recruitment should reflect our stakeholders and the society that we serve and support, regardless of age, race, gender, sexual orientation, physical abilities, disabilities or religious practices. We value individual diversity and are actively building diverse teams here at Carers UK and value our colleagues from a wide range of backgrounds.

As a membership charity for carers, we particularly seek employees and volunteers with a real understanding of the issues faced by carers. Reasonable adjustments can be made to the process and role, dependent on the needs of the applicant.

We are proud to be an Employers for Carers member. We have signed the Menopause Workplace Pledge and achieved the Disability Confident Employer accreditation. We aim to offer interviews to those who have a disability covered under the definition outlined in the Equality Act 2010 and who meet the minimum criteria for the role. The minimum criteria can be found under the Essential section of the Person Specification of the recruitment pack. Please let us know if your application is being made under the Disability Confident Scheme. You are not required to share the nature of your disability or long term health condition. You will need to state in your email application that you are making your application under the Disability Confident Scheme as you consider yourself to be disabled, or as having a disability. If you meet the minimum criteria then you will be offered an interview.

At Carers UK we want our application process to be as accessible as possible. If you need any adjustments to apply please contact us to discuss.  

The closing date for applications is 5pm, Tuesday 22 September.

.Carers UK anonymises all applications prior to shortlisting.

Carers UK reserves the right to appoint at any stage, should an outstanding candidate emerge.

Carers UK are actively interviewing as we receive applications.

Carers UK may carry out online and social media checks before a formal offer is made.