Policy communications manager jobs in darwen, lancashire

The Royal Meteorological Society is the UK’s professional and learned Society for Weather and Climate and is respected around the world for its contribution to meteorology.  The Society is a charity and its programmes of work include providing professional accreditation, developing educational resources and skills, producing scientific publications, holding public and professional meetings and events, giving advice to Government and policy makers, and a growing role in providing information to the public on the science of weather and climate change.

We are seeking a motivated and detail-oriented Research Assistant to support an exciting project called the State of the Climate for the Agri-Food Sector, which we are delivering in partnership with the Met Office. This project aims to contribute to the evidence base of current impacts of climate change on the agri-food sector in the UK. This role is ideal for someone with strong research skills and an interest in weather and climate and the influence on the agri-food sector.

Roles and Responsibilities

The candidate will be responsible for the following but will be expected to meet with the project team once a month and come to the kick-off meeting and launch event. There is also scope for involvement in the communication and dissemination of the work throughout the program.

The responsibilities and timeline are set out as follows:

• Update the research protocol with the project team (Q1)
• Evidence and Data Synthesis from publicly available data sources and data provided by project partners (Q1):
  •  Carry out evidence synthesis
  •  Compile results from synthesis
  •  Share results with stakeholders
• Indicator co-production workshop (Q1)
  •  With the project team identify key stakeholders for an indicator workshop
  •  Share results from evidence and data synthesis to support the discussion
  •  Co-deliver the running of the workshop
  •  Write a draft report of the outcomes and agreed indicators
• Develop Agri-Food Case Studies which will form part of a resource hub (Q2/Q3)
  •  Run online focus groups
  •  Develop case studies of transformative adaptation taking place in the UK
  •  Share case studies with stakeholders
• Final Report and Roadmap (Q2/Q3)
  •  Lead the write up of the final technical report
  •  Develop roadmap of the annual process
• Project wrap up feeding into planning for 2027 cycle (Q4)

Required Skills and Competencies

The required skills and competencies that the Society view as important for this role are:

Essential:

• Hold or carrying out a research degree and be either a student or an early career researcher/professional (i.e. MPhil, MSc, PhD); Background or strong interest in agri-food, weather and climate is highly preferred.
• Experience in academic or applied research including with quantitative analysis. Strong analytical skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills with the ability to produce clear, professional documentation for external stakeholders
• Self-starter with excellent organisational skills and the ability to work independently and manage time effectively
• Confidence to chair and organise focus groups and workshop with stakeholders
• A friendly and open-minded approach, with strong interpersonal skills
• Familiarity with indicator development
• Skilled in programming in R and/or Python
• All applicants are required to demonstrate the right to work in the UK.

Desired:

• Experience working on a project with multiple stakeholders

Recruitment information and timetable

Funding: The salary range is £30,000 - £35,000 per annum depending on experience. This is advertised as a full-time position; however, we are open to flexible arrangements. For example, the role could be structured as a secondment from industry or academia; or offered on a part-time basis for a set number of days per week.

Closing date: The deadline for applications is 3pm, Tuesday 6th January. Interviews are expected to take place w/c 19th January 2026 with some flexibility for interview times outside of core working hours.

Start Date: February 1st, 2026

Duration: 12 months, with the possibility of extension dependant on funding.

Location: This will be a remote working role, with opportunities to visit Society headquarters and attend relevant RMetS events. There may also be an occasional requirement for in person meetings with the Met Office and our funding partner.

Support: The role will be supervised by the RMetS Science Engagement Business Development Manager. Expenses will be reimbursed in line with the RMetS Expenses Policy.

The Royal Meteorological Society values diversity of background and perspective and is committed to treating all people equally and with respect irrespective of their age, disability, gender reassignment, marriage or civil partnership, pregnancy or maternity, race, religion or belief, sex, or sexual orientation. We value diversity of background and perspective.

We are particularly committed to the employment and career development of disabled people. As part of this commitment, we operate a guaranteed interview scheme for disabled applicants who meet the essential criteria for the role they have applied for and we will proactively consider all reasonable adjustments to facilitate employment with us. If you wish to apply under this scheme, please indicate this in your covering letter.

Contract: 1.0 FTE (37.5 hours per week), permanent with 6-month probation period

Salary: £56,650-70,000 per annum, depending on experience

Location: Remote working, with option to use co-working space

Start Date: As soon as possible

Reports to: Executive Director

Please note: You must have the right to work in the UK.

How to Apply

Closing Date: 4th January 2026 (23:59 GMT)

To apply, please submit the following: 

• Cover letter (maximum 2 pages)

• CV

Due to the volume of applications, only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. If you have not heard from us within two weeks of the closing date, your application has not been successful on this occasion.

About BASIC

BASIC is an independent, non-profit think tank working to safeguard humanity and Earth's ecosystem from nuclear risks and interconnected security threats, for generations to come. Our vision is for a global security consensus founded on multilateralism, the recognition of the indivisibility of security, adherence to Earth's planetary boundaries, and consideration of future generations.

For nearly 40 years, we have built a global reputation for groundbreaking dialogue and incisive thought leadership to strengthen international peace and security. We are an intellectually and culturally diverse team of 20 expert-practitioners with deep institutional experience, headquartered in London with additional presences in Berlin and Rome. We are independent, receive no core funding from any state, and our project work is funded transparently.

BASIC's approach to resolving contemporary nuclear dynamics is centred on dialogue as both a practice and a philosophy. We interpret dialogue broadly, recognising that meaningful engagement takes many forms: from facilitating direct strategic conversations between adversaries grounded in conflict resolution principles, to developing networks and diplomatic initiatives that build consensus around shared objectives, to shaping the intellectual foundations of policy discourse through rigorous research and thought leadership.

BASIC is a fast-paced and rewarding environment with an exceptionally positive and inclusive team culture. We have experienced rapid growth over the past decade and are well-suited to people who are motivated by our mission, able to work at a sustained pace, keen to develop professionally, and enjoy being part of a collaborative team working on consequential issues.

What We Offer

• Competitive salary with room for growth

• 30 days annual leave (pro rata), plus bank holidays and closure days over the December festive period

• Employer pension contributions of 5% (above the national minimum)

• Flexible working arrangements, with set days (Wednesdays required) but flexibility on hours

• Remote working with option to use co-working space

• 1-2 all-staff in-person team away day per year, as well as other in-person working opportunities

• Opportunities for professional growth and development

• Excellent team culture built on respect, openness, and inclusion

The Role

BASIC is seeking a hands-on Financial Controller to lead our finance function during a period of sustained growth. The Financial Controller will work across Programme teams ensuring strong financial management and reporting to funding partners, maintain strong financial controls, ensure compliance with charity finance regulations, and provide accurate financial reporting to our Directors and Board of Trustees.

The Financial Controller will oversee the small finance team, including line management of a Finance Assistant and management of an external bookkeeper consultant. This team will be responsible for the majority of financial accounting, processing payroll, and accurate bookkeeping, for which the Financial Controller will be ultimately accountable.

The role includes managing restricted and unrestricted funds in accordance with funder requirements and programme needs, preparing statutory accounts for external audit, and overseeing payroll processing. This role reports directly to the Executive Director to prepare annual budgets and financial strategy, and works closely with the Board's Financial Development Committee to present its implementation.

The ideal candidate will be a qualified accountant with strong technical accounting skills, experience in charity finance, and a proven track record of effective financial management of a growing organisation. You should be comfortable both managing a small team and working hands-on when needed, building collaborative relationships across the organisation. You will need to be a multitasker with the ability to work at pace, and be willing to develop the finance function and best practices to enable the organisation to grow further.

Key Responsibilities

Financial Accounting and Reporting

• Oversee the maintenance of accurate financial records and bookkeeping in accordance with charity accounting standards (SORP)

• Prepare monthly management accounts including variance reporting and rolling forecasts

• Prepare annual statutory accounts and manage the annual independent audit process in its entirety

• Manage restricted and unrestricted funds in accordance with funder requirements

• Provide accurate and timely financial reporting to the Board of Trustees, Executive Director, and funding partners

Financial Operations

• Oversee day-to-day finance operations including payment processing, staff expenses, and cost allocation (including staff costs)

• Oversee monthly payroll using QuickBooks (led by Finance Assistant)

• Manage treasury functions including bank and cash management

• Oversee procurement of key assets such as IT equipment

• Cashflow management

Grant and Budget Management

• Support budget development for funding bids and proposals

• Monitor spend against grants and projects, working towards full cost recovery

• Prepare financial reports for donors and funding partners

• Lead annual budget-setting and forecasting processes in collaboration with the Board and Executive Director

Financial Systems and Controls

• Develop and maintain robust financial systems, processes, and controls

• Continuously improve finance processes and identify efficiencies

• Advise on financial governance and best practice

• Manage financial risks and opportunities (e.g., insurance, foreign exchange)

Team Management and Stakeholder Relations

• Line manage the Finance Assistant and oversee external bookkeeper consultant

• Build collaborative relationships across the organisation

• Manage relationships with key external stakeholders including banks, international transfer services, and audit partners

• Work closely with the Board's Financial Development Committee and BASIC's Treasurer

Please note: This list is not exhaustive. Other tasks may be required as they arise.

Person Specification

Essential Criteria:

• Qualified accountant (ACCA, CIMA, ACA or equivalent) or part-qualified with significant relevant experience
• Proven experience in a mid-level to senior finance role, with responsibility for financial accounting and reporting
• Experience managing restricted and unrestricted funds
• Experience preparing statutory accounts and managing audit processes
• Experience in a growing organisation, implementing and improving financial systems and controls
• Strong technical accounting skills and understanding of financial controls
• Excellent numeracy and attention to detail
• Proficiency with accounting software (experience with QuickBooks highly desirable)
• Strong Excel/spreadsheet skills
• Excellent communication skills, able to explain financial information to non-finance colleagues
• Highly organised with ability to manage multiple priorities and work to deadlines
• Proactive and solutions-oriented, with ability to work both independently and collaboratively
• Comfortable working hands-on when needed while also providing strategic oversight
• Ability to work at pace in a fast-growing organisation
• Commitment to BASIC's mission and values

Desirable Criteria:

• Experience in charity finance and understanding of charity accounting standards (SORP)
• Experience line managing finance staff
• Experience in an international organisation or with international funding
• Understanding of charity governance and regulatory requirements

Please Note: We do not accept applications via external websites or CVs via email. Please apply via our website.

Are you someone who thrives on helping others, solving problems, and making a tangible difference in people’s lives? We’re looking for a committed and empathetic Student Advisor to join the Advice Service team at the University of Manchester Students’ Union (UMSU). 

In this vital role, you’ll provide free, independent, and confidential advice to students across a range of key areas. We are looking for someone who will be able to support students professionally and with a high level of empathy, ensuring they feel heard, informed, and empowered to take the next steps. 

You’ll enjoy this role if you’re interested in the law and getting to grips with regulations, policies and procedures, so you can help students to understand their rights and resolve the problems they face. As a Student Advisor, you will be able to respond sensitively and compassionately to students in distress or facing crisis and will have an ability to give practical and emotional support. Excellent communication skills are essential. 

The Advice Service also provides a supported self-help offer and as a team we deliver promotional and preventative campaigns. This role will really suit you if you’re enthusiastic and approachable and would enjoy speaking to students and our stakeholders in a variety of settings. We’re also looking for candidates with an interest for writing social media and website copy and would like to be involved in designing and delivering presentations, interactive stalls, training and workshops. 

You’ll be part of a small, supportive and dedicated team, working in a busy, varied environment that puts student wellbeing at the heart of everything we do. You’ll have access to training and continuing professional development to help you excel as a Student Advisor. You’ll also have regular opportunities for reflection and support for your wellbeing, including access to external restorative supervision.  

Key Responsibilities 

• Deliver One-to-One Support: Provide impartial, confidential advice on academic concerns (appeals, complaints, disciplinaries), housing issues, financial support, and personal or welfare-related challenges. 
• Support in Crisis: Offer guidance and emotional support to students experiencing difficult or distressing circumstances, such as mental health issues, sexual violence, harassment, or financial insecurity. 
• Create and Share Resources: Develop accessible self-help materials (articles, videos, workshops) to empower students and reduce reliance on one-to-one services. 
• Promote the Service: Take part in outreach activities, including campaigns, events, and training, to raise awareness and improve access to advice and support. 
• Track and Report Issues: Use our case management system to record casework clearly and securely and help monitor trends in student issues to inform future campaigns. 
• Collaborate and Contribute: Work closely with colleagues across UMSU to support key periods like Welcome Week and elections, contributing to a supportive and inclusive student experience. 

We’re looking for someone who: 

• Communicates with clarity, compassion, and confidence. 
• Is emotionally resilient and able to manage sensitive or complex situations calmly. 
• Understands the importance of impartiality, confidentiality, and professionalism. 
• Is highly organised with strong attention to detail and time management skills. 
• Can create clear, engaging written resources and deliver effective presentations. 
• Is confident using IT systems and comfortable with data and record keeping. 

Previous experience in advice, welfare, support work, or student services is helpful, but we welcome applications from those with transferable skills and a genuine passion for student support.  

The Essentials 

• Salary: £27,013 - £30,237 per annum 
• Contract: Full-time, permanent (35 hours per week) 
• Location: Hybrid working – typically 3+ days per week in our Advice Office on campus 
• Eligibility: Open to applicants with relevant skills and experience who are eligible to work in the UK at the start of employment 

Recruitment Timeline

Applications opened: 5th December 2025

Applications close: 5th January 2026 23:59

Interviews: 16th January 2026 (online option available)

Role Commencing: 26th January 2026

We may close applications early if we receive a high volume of applications. We recommend that you apply as soon as possible to avoid disappointment. Once the vacancy has closed, we’re unable to accept late applications to ensure a fair process for all candidates.

Why Join Us? 

At UMSU, you’ll be part of a supportive, inclusive, and values-driven organisation that champions student empowerment. We offer opportunities for professional development, a collaborative team culture, and the chance to make a real and lasting impact in students’ lives. 

Sound like the right fit? Apply now and join a team that’s here to make student life better. 

Job Purpose:

To support the delivery of WIPs housing programme in Manchester and Trafford, with a focus on women coming into contact with the police and women being released back into the community following a period on remand, providing trauma-informed specialist support to improve housing outcomes for women affected by the criminal justice system.

1. To deliver an effective housing intervention for women impacted by the criminal justice system.
2. To develop effective relationships with key stakeholders, such as housing departments, court-based and prison teams, to ensure a collaborative approach to women’s accommodation needs.
3. To provide expert advice and support to colleagues, including upskilling through information and training sessions, and supporting system change activities.