Policy development officer jobs

This is an exciting role leading our committed policy team leading the fight to end child poverty in the UK. The development and implementation of a UK-wide cross-government child poverty strategy means this is a great time to join CPAG as we look to influence policy makers to adopt our evidence-based policy solutions to child poverty.

We are looking for someone to take a lead role in developing evidence-based policy positions to support CPAG’s influencing and campaigns work. You will have knowledge of political processes and how external organisations can effect change. You will have a track record of producing high quality research and analysis, including policy briefings, on social policy issues. You will have experience of managing a small team and working collaboratively to identify policy issues and develop solutions with colleagues across the organisation, as well as externally.

The postholder will be working in a fast moving, high profile and complex policy environment and will need to balance short term priorities with long term objectives. Current priorities include influencing the implementation of the forthcoming child poverty strategy, gathering and sharing analysis and expertise with the DWP as part of their review of universal credit, and monitoring the development of forthcoming changes to disability benefits.

We welcome applications from individuals with the skills and experience outlined and we can be flexible about working arrangements. We operate a hybrid working system and would be happy to discuss any flexibilities required. CPAG is committed to equity, diversity and inclusion which you can read more about in the job pack.

We welcome applications on a secondment basis.

For more information about this post and to apply download the Head of Policy job pack.

If you have questions or need specific arrangements or reasonable adjustments to take part in the selection process, please contact us.

Closing date for applications: Sunday 4th January 2026 (midnight)

Interviews will take place: Tuesday 13th January 2026

The Senior Organisational Development Manager is responsible for leading the design, implementation, and evaluation of organisational development strategies and programmes to foster a high-performing culture, improve employee engagement, and support the achievement of strategic business goals. 

This role involves partnering with senior leadership, identifying organisational needs, and developing innovative solutions to complex challenges related to structure, processes, leadership, and talent. 

This role is not open to sponsorship.

Staff benefits include shuttle bus, and more… Read more below.

Role Requirements

• Lead strategic OD initiatives that build leadership capability, drive cultural change, and support talent development as part of the organisation’s 2030 Strategy.
• Establish an organisational EDI framework with clear priorities, metrics and governance.
• Continue to embed and further develop the organisational Wellbeing strategy and embed practises that support emotional resilience.
• Champion EDI and Wellbeing initiatives, ensuring these are integral to the OD Plan and embedded in the Workforce Strategy.
• Lead the design and implementation of a trauma-informed, psychologically safe organisational culture.
• Develop frameworks for staff engagement, inclusion, and psychological safety to create a wider positive and high-performing culture.
• Collaborate with senior leaders to shape organisational behaviours, leadership styles, and decision-making that reflect our mission and values.
• Undertake diagnostics analysis to identify cultural, behavioural and capability gaps and develop/ implement a plan to address.
• Drive cultural alignment and leadership cohesion following organisational change, ensuring leaders are equipped to model values, foster collaboration, and lead change effectively across all directorates.
• Design and deliver leadership development programmes that equip leaders to inspire, manage change, and drive organisational success.
• Ensure the fulfilment of current and future commitments to the Leadership Development programme ensuring that our leaders are equipped with the tools they need to drive the organisation forward together with inspiring their individual teams.
• Support succession planning and talent pipelines, ensuring future leadership capability and culture aligns with strategic priorities.
• Provide sound recommendations and strategic direction on learning, career and leadership development, across the organisation based on observation of best practice externally.
• Oversee the Apprenticeship Scheme and core training programmes, ensuring alignment with workforce growth and retention goals.
• Manage the central training budget, ensuring efficient delivery of mandatory and developmental training.
• Continuously review induction and learning programmes, adapting content and processes to meet evolving organisational needs and cultural development.
• Drive organisational initiatives aimed at achieving elevated professional standards and qualifications.

Interview Date: To be confirmed.

Terms and Conditions

Strictly no agencies, please.

About Us

The Children’s Trust is the UK’s leading charity for children with acquired brain injury, providing expert rehabilitation, education, therapy, and care at our national specialist centre in Tadworth, and to children and their families across the UK, via our Brain Injury Community Service.

Boasting a beautiful 24-acre site in Surrey, we are located just outside of London, close to the M25 (accessible via Junction 8, A217 to Tadworth) and easily accessible via National Rail, by way of: Clapham Junction, Sutton, and Epsom.

Staff Benefits

The work we do is highly rewarding, and in addition to an attractive salary, we offer a valuable range of benefits, including our staff flexible benefits platform, on-site nursery, free eye tests, enhanced Maternity and Paternity Pay, time out days for those experiencing menopause symptoms and time off for gender reassignment.

We also offer additional annual leave days for those with long service, with entitlements ranging from 35 to 41 days (including bank holidays) depending on your length of service.

Other benefits include free on-site parking; a staff shuttle service from Epsom and Sutton train stations to Tadworth Court, subsidised cafeteria, on-site staff accommodation (subject to availability), the ability to retain your NHS pension (where applicable), Teacher’s pension (where applicable) or the opportunity to join an alternative scheme, and the opportunity to develop your career in a supportive and collaborative environment.

Rehabilitation of Offenders

Many roles at The Children’s Trust are exempt from the provisions of Section 4 (2) of the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974, by virtue of the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 (Exceptions) Order 1975 (as amended in 2013 and 2020) and as such, are subject to an Enhanced DBS check.  Successful applicants will be required to complete an Enhanced Disclosure & Barring Service (DBS) check, which will disclose all unspent convictions and adult cautions and any spent convictions or adult cautions that would not be protected.  The exceptions to this are our retail roles within The Children’s Trust shops, which are subject to Basic DBS checks which will disclose unspent convictions or adult cautions.

Equal Opportunity Employer

To help us achieve our ambition to give children and young people with brain injury and neurodisability the opportunity to live the best life possible, we want to accurately reflect the UK’s diverse population. We want equity, diversity, and inclusion to be at the heart of everything we do, and our people, services, and culture to reflect the diverse needs of all. Through our diversity and inclusion strategy, we have made a commitment to increase the diversity of our charity and create an inclusive culture. We have networks across the organisation working to ensure that these aims are met - including an LGBTQIA2S+ group, Ethnic Diversity Group, and Spark – our broad EDI group. Read more about our EDI work here. We welcome applications from all who share our ambition regardless of background. We will strive to ensure that any reasonable adjustments are made in respect of interview and working arrangements.

Online Searches

In accordance with statutory safeguarding and child protection guidance, online searches will be conducted for shortlisted candidates before interview. The online searches will be conducted by a person who is independent of the interview and selection process and will focus on relevant information returned via searches of the candidate’s name (and variations thereof). Social media searches will be limited to professional platforms such as Linked In. Any concerns relating to suitability for work with children and young people will be forwarded to the interview panel, for discussion during the interview.

Starting salary in the range of:  £33,141 to £35,855

Working pattern: Full-time (35 hours per week) - some out of hours work may be required for events. 

Pension: USS

Annual leave: 25 days plus bank holidays, 3 well-being days per year (leave), an extended Christmas closure, and an employee benefits package.

Location: Hybrid and flexible working (core hours between 10am-3pm); split between remote working and our office based in central London with occasional UK-wide travel. There is a mandatory, in-person team day once a month in our office near Euston and expected attendance at relevant in-person events (typically up to 5 days per month).

Reports to: Director of Operations and Membership

 

Purpose:

The Events and Communications Officer will be responsible for supporting both membership events and communications activities.  The ECO will work with both the Communications Manager and the Membership and Events Manager to ensure membership data is up-to-date, to track membership engagement, to support the organising and delivery of our events, and to craft and broadcast digital content and media outputs.  This role requires a proactive, dynamic, and driven individual with excellent communication skills, an understanding of event management, confidence and experience using CRM databases and Excel, along with social media skills and an ability to spot new media opportunities. The ideal candidate will be highly organised, confident and adept with CRM systems, and enthusiastic about delivering excellent service to members whilst helping to promote the organisation's work across digital channels.

Key Responsibilities

Membership and Events Support

1. Working closely with the Membership and Events Manager to deliver  strategies for recruiting, retaining, and engaging members. 

2. Maintain and update the CRM system, ensuring accurate records and consistent data standards.

3. Support the processing of membership applications, renewals, and enquiries in a timely and professional manner. 

4. Support the organising and execution of member events, such as network and consortium meetings and other engagement activities as needed.

5. Support with the preparation of regular reports on membership numbers, trends and engagement activities. 

6. Work  closely with the Communications Manager and Membership and Events Manager to design, distribute, and collate the annual member survey.

7. Input membership invoices and payments into Xero or relevant systems.

Communications Support

1. Support a comprehensive media strategy set out by the Comms Manager to promote the organisation's mission and activities.

2. Manage planned activities on all social media platforms, including content creation and community engagement.

3. Proofread and distribute press releases, newsletters, and other communication materials.

4. Maintain and update the organisation's website with relevant news and content.

5. Managing the press inbox.

6. Monitor media coverage and help prepare reports on media performance.

7. Create engaging content for various platforms.

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, including senior leaders, academics, and professional services 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 where appropriate. 

8. Deputise for the Membership and Events manager, and the Communications manager as appropriate.

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

Person Specification

Core Skills:

• Strong written and verbal communication.

• Excellent organisational and time management.

• Proficiency in Google Suite, Microsoft Office, CRM systems, and graphic design tools (such as Canva or Adobe Creative Suite). 

• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.

• Ability to coordinate multiple tasks and meet deadlines.

• An ability to build relationships within our team, with members and with media contacts.

• Understanding of current media trends and best practices.

Core Attributes

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

• Be self-motivated and communicative with colleagues, with the ability to support the wider team when required in a flexible and dynamic working environment.

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

Ideal Education: Bachelor's degree/ relevant experience and training in Communications, Marketing, Public Relations, Business Administration, or a related field.

Ideal Experience:

• At least one (1) year’s experience in membership support, communications, or an administrative role. 

• Proven experience in social media management and content creation.

• Experience with CRM software and email marketing platforms.

• Experience in the tertiary or higher education sector.

• Experience with invoicing/ payment systems (e.g. Xero, QuickBooks, and the like). 

The Development Office at Oundle School is looking for Deputy Director of Development who will be instrumental in advancing our philanthropic goals and will support the management and running of its driven and friendly team.

THE ROLE

The Deputy Director of Development will play a key part in helping us achieve our philanthropic goals. This role provides a real opportunity to make a tangible difference: devising and shaping strategy, driving forward our stewardship and legacies programme, building key relationships with major donors, and working closely with the Director of Development on the next advances in this vital area of the school’s work.

This is an exciting opportunity for a dynamic relationship manager who is highly motivated, creative, and intellectually curious, with experience of working within a fundraising or relatable field. We are looking for a dedicated colleague who will enjoy working across a vibrant constituency within a beautiful architectural setting to deepen philanthropic relationships between the school and its alumni and parent body.

While this role is 40 hours per week, year round, we are open to discussion about working arrangements including hybrid working to attract a candidate who can help us achieve our ambitions.

THE SCHOOL

Oundle and Laxton Junior Schools have long been associated with the very best of modern independent education, especially boarding. The Schools take seriously their responsibility to pupils so that they can emerge as decent, open-minded adults; ambitious about what they can go on to achieve and contribute. Over 1400 pupils are on roll at the School, of whom 840 are full boarders. Academic results are steadfastly excellent. 

A team of around 800 staff, both academic and support, ensure an education of the highest standard is in place across the Schools with the efforts of the whole team focused on this fundamental aim.

LIVING IN OUNDLE

We are fortunate in our location at the heart of a beautiful market town. School and town are part of the same community and our pupils take their place within this community, not isolated from it. The town has a spirited cultural life, with an annual international festival, literature festival, and frequent performances of nationally touring shows at the School’s Stahl Theatre.

TO APPLY

Full details of the role, including hours of work and salary, can be found in the Job Description. If you are excited by this opportunity, please complete and return an application form and supplement to the application before the closing date.

Please note CV submissions cannot be accepted.

Application closing date: Wednesday 21 January 2026, 9am.

Interviews will take place week commencing 2 February 2026 and 9 February 2026.

Oundle School and Laxton Junior School are proud to be equal opportunity employers and we welcome applications from all. We aim to ensure that all applicants are provided with the same opportunities during the recruitment process, and we endeavour to comply with the duties placed upon us to make reasonable adjustments as prescribed by the Equality Act 2010. Should you need to request a particular adjustment to enable you to participate fully in the recruitment process, please ensure that this is made known, to the HR Department

Both Schools are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. Applicants will be required to undergo child protection screening appropriate to the post including checks with past employers and the Disclosure and Barring Service.

Recruitment Agencies

The Corporation of Oundle School has an internal recruitment department, but where agency support is required, we will engage our trusted partners. Our adverts are intended to encourage direct interest from potential applicants, not recruitment agencies. Speculative CVs sent from sources other than directly from a candidate, will not be acknowledged or considered.

The Centre for Justice Innovation is looking to recruit a creative and pragmatic policy professional to help us advocate for evidence-based reform to criminal and family justice policy in the UK.

What will You be doing?

Our policy officer will play a key role in building on our research and practice insights to make the arguments for evidence-based policy in the UK’s justice systems, with a focus on building links in Westminster and Whitehall. You will work across our portfolio of work on issues such as:

• Diverting young people away from unnecessary criminal justice system involvement
• Ensuring that the justice system works with vulnerable women in a gender-sensitive and trauma-informed way
• Making sure that children and families involved in the family justice system have the right support.

Your duties will include:

• Producing policy materials and engaging with political stakeholders (e.g., submitting evidence to committees, emailing MPs, writing briefings);
• Working with our teams to translate research and practice work into products appropriate for policy audiences;
• Building our networks with policymakers and legislators in Westminster;
• Building our networks with third sector organisations and others who seek to influence policy, and representing the organisation at external meetings;
• Monitoring relevant parliamentary business and providing updates to the teams;
• Generating ideas for, planning and delivering on events and webinars;
• Contributing to the organisation’s thinking on strategic justice policy, and scoping new areas of work.

Every member of our team plays a part in influencing how the Centre develops. Roles and objectives may shift, and we ask everyone to work with creativity and flexibility in response to changing business needs.

Skills, Experience and Knowledge

Through your application, you should demonstrate the experience, skills and knowledge you have in the areas described below.

Experience

• Engaging with political stakeholders;
• Producing high-quality written materials to engage different policy audiences;
• Conducting desk-based research;
• Delivering events.

Skills, abilities and knowledge

• Excellent writing skills and good spoken English;
• Excellent analytical skills to succinctly develop and express key arguments;
• Good understanding of the UK political environment
• Demonstrable interest in and understanding of social policy issues
• Awareness of parliamentary processes and opportunities;
• Insight into the challenges policymakers face in delivering change;
• A creative approach to solving social problems and identifying practical solutions;
• The ability to balance multiple priorities and manage your own workload to meet deadlines.

You will also need to have:

• A willingness and ability to travel within the UK and occasionally overseas;
• Eligibility to work in the UK legally.

Timeline

The deadline for applications is 9am on Monday, 12th January 2026. Interviews will be held at our office in Kennington in the week commencing 19th January 2026.

Other benefits

• Matched pension contributions
• Employee healthcare scheme
• Flexible hous

Equal opportunities

It is the policy of The Centre for Justice Innovation to treat all employees and job applicants fairly and equally, regardless of their sex, sexual orientation, marital status, race, colour, nationality, ethnic or national origin, religion, age, disability, offending history or trade union membership status.

We actively encourage applications from candidates of all backgrounds, identities, and experiences, fostering a workplace where everyone feels valued and can thrive.

The Centre is committed to fair recruitment and the inclusion of applicants with criminal records. It is essential that people do not face unfair discrimination in any role within the charity, whether paid or voluntary. For that reason, we do not use criminal records to exclude people. We only ask about criminal records if they are relevant to the role.

The Funding and Development Officer will play a key role in identifying, securing, and managing income streams through grants, partnerships, donations, and fundraising initiatives. This role will also support organisational growth by developing strategic relationships, improving funding processes, and enhancing the charity’s visibility and impact.

The Funding & Development Officer will work closely with the Centre Manager to identify a strategic funding & finance plan to ensure sustainability for all the charities projects.

LYCC is a youth and community organisation (registered charity) dedicated to empowering young people, adults and strengthening local communities. We provide inclusive programmes, opportunities, and support that help individuals develop confidence, skills, and a sense of belonging. Our name change in 2011, to Litherland Youth & Community Centre, and our building redevelopment in 2014/2015 reflects how our organisation had shifted from a traditional “boys club” and “youth centre” to now a youth and community centre. Taking a holistic approach in relation to our services facilitated and support offered. LYCC identified the need for this holistic approach and has worked since to provide services and support for individuals of all ages within our community. The Funding & Development Officer, will help LYCC be proactive to local identified need and help to source and secure funds to faciltiate support. 

Current charity turnover approx. £300k. 

Join the leading UK network for British Muslim-led charities and community organisations! Building on your passion for social justice and sector improvement, support the growing sector, advocate for change for minority communities and the user-led organisations who support them. 

Job role: Junior Policy and Advocacy Officer

Employer: Muslim Charities Forum

Salary: £29,000 –£32,000 per annum

Hours: Full-time, 35 hours per week (4 days office-based, 1 day hybrid/remote)

Position: Fixed Term Contract, 3 years.

Location: London SE1. Nearest stations: Waterloo, Lambeth North

Closing date for applications:  16th December 2025, 5.00pm or until a suitable candidate is identified. 

About Muslim Charities Forum (MCF)

Muslim Charities Forum (MCF) is the UK’s leading network for Muslim-led charities, strengthening the capacity, voice and impact of nearly 300 organisations. Guided by our pillars of Support, Connect and Represent, we champion excellence, transparency and social justice through resources, capacity-building, research and advocacy.

We work to tackle structural and funding barriers, influence government, policymakers and the wider sector, and build a more sustainable, equitable Muslim-led charitable landscape. Through strategic partnerships and collaborations, we drive systemic change and amplify the contributions of Muslim-led organisations across society.

Role Purpose

The Junior Policy & Advocacy Officer will support the delivery of MCF’s policy, advocacy and research work. Working closely with the Head of Policy & Advocacy, they will contribute to policy monitoring, research projects, member engagement, and influencing activities across government, civil society, and the wider third-sector ecosystem.

This role is ideal for an early-career professional with strong analytical skills, a passion for social justice, and an interest in policy, research, and advocacy relating to the Muslim-led voluntary and community sector.

Key Responsibilities

1. Policy Monitoring and Research Support

• Track and summarise relevant UK policy, regulatory, parliamentary and sector developments related to civil society, charity regulation, funding, equity, inclusion and climate-related legislation or sustainability policy, reflecting MCF’s commitment to sector-wide awareness of climate action.

• Assist in drafting policy briefings, consultation responses, evidence submissions, and research summaries.

• Support the Head of Policy & Advocacy in compiling data and insights for reports, position statements and strategic documents. • Conduct desk-based research on thematic issues affecting Muslim-led and minority-led organisations.

• Monitor media commentary relevant to the British Muslim-led Voluntary and Community Sector and contribute to the preparation of responses, in collaboration with the Policy and Communications teams.

2. Advocacy and Influencing Support

• Support engagement with government stakeholders by preparing meeting briefs, background notes, and follow-up materials.

• Help coordinate MCF’s involvement in roundtables, APPG sessions, consultations, and external events.

• Maintain databases of stakeholders including parliamentarians, policymakers, think tanks, regulators and sector partners. • Support public affairs monitoring, including parliamentary questions, debates and committee activity.

• Contribute to MCF’s work on climate action awareness and sustainability by supporting advocacy messaging, stakeholder engagement or policy monitoring relating to sustainable practice across the Muslim charity sector.

3. Engagement with Members and Sector Stakeholders

• Assist in organising policy workshops, training sessions, and capacity-building resources for MCF’s members.

• Help collect insights, feedback and lived experience from member organisations to inform MCF’s policy positions.

• Respond to member enquiries relating to policy, regulation or advocacy support.

• Contribute to resources that help Muslim-led charities navigate regulatory and structural barriers.

• Support member-facing materials and capacity-building related to sustainability, climate awareness, or environmental good practice where required. 4. Communications and Content Support

• Draft accessible summaries of policy developments for newsletters, blogs, briefings or social media (in collaboration with the Communications team).

• Ensure policy messages are communicated consistently and clearly to internal and external audiences.

• Help prepare slides, visuals or short reports for senior-level advocacy engagements.

• Work with the Communications team to cntribute to external messaging that aligns with MCF’s media monitoring, research findings and sector commentary.

5. Administration, Coordination and Reporting

• Provide administrative support for the policy and advocacy workstream, including scheduling, minutes, organisation of meetings and events. • Maintain systems for tracking policy work, research outputs and stakeholder engagement.

• Assist with monitoring, evaluation and reporting on the impact of policy activities.

• Ensure compliance with internal processes and external regulatory requirements (e.g., lobbying regulations).

Person Specification

Essential

• Experience (including internships or volunteering) in policy, research, public affairs, community advocacy or a related area.

• Strong understanding of UK political, charity or social policy landscapes.

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to summarise complex information clearly.

• Strong analytical and research skills, with the ability to interpret data and produce evidence-informed insights.

• Good organisational skills, with the ability to manage multiple tasks and meet deadlines.

• Commitment to social justice, equity and strengthening underrepresented communities.

• Ability to work collaboratively in a small, fast-paced team.

• Sensitivity to issues affecting Muslim-led, minority-led or faith-based civil society.

• Awareness of key issues, legislation or trends relating to climate change or sustainability affecting civil society.

• Interest in media monitoring, public messaging or analysing public commentary related to the sector.

Desirable

• Experience working or volunteering within the voluntary sector, community organisations, or advocacy projects.

• Understanding of intersectionality and structural inequalities affecting minority and marginalised communities.

• Experience producing policy briefs, research notes or advocacy materials.

• Familiarity with parliamentary processes or government engagement.

• Lived experience relevant to the communities MCF represents.

Values and Behaviours

• Collaborative, inclusive and respectful approach to diverse stakeholders. Proactive, organised and self-motivated, with willingness to learn.

• Integrity and professionalism when representing MCF.

• Commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion.

• Ability to amplify underrepresented voices with care and accuracy.

What We Offer

• Opportunity to develop skills in policy, research, advocacy and stakeholder engagement.

• Mentorship and learning from experienced senior leaders.

• A supportive and inclusive working environment.

• Chance to contribute to meaningful, systemic change within the UK’s Muslim led charity sector.

Application Information

If you are a change maker who wishes to help us empower the sector, please send your CV and a covering letter outlining your suitability for the role. We reserve the right to withdraw this role once a suitable candidate is identified.

If you have not heard from us concerning your application within 6 weeks, please assume your application has been unsuccessful.

Interviews: Initial online short interview (stage 1), face-to-face in-office interview (stage 2).

No agencies.

UK residents only. Sponsorship is not possible for this post. References will be taken up prior to appointment including relevant ID checks. 

Chief Executive Officer

Salary:     c.£75 - 80,000 per annum

Hours:      Full time 35 hours per week

Contract:  Permanent

Location:  The role is, of necessity, office based, although flexibility for home working is expected where appropriate. Evening and weekend work will be required to attend networking and other events.

At Sussex community Foundation we are approaching our 20th anniversary. As we celebrate this milestone, we are looking for an ambitious and dynamic chief executive to lead us into the next 20 years, enabling us to make Sussex a fairer and more equal place.

At Sussex Community Foundation we bring inspirational people together to create the change Sussex needs. In our first 20 years we have built a reputation across the county as an authoritative voice in local philanthropy, attracting and retaining new Fundholders to the Foundation.

As a leading grant maker in the county, our reputation within the voluntary sector is incredibly important to us. We want to ensure that our future Chief Executive builds on these trusted relationships.

We have an experienced and influential Board who will support you in your role, backed up by an enthusiastic and committed team of experts in both fundraising and grant making.

We look forward to receiving your application.

Mark Spofforth OBE FCA - Chair of Trustees

Closing date: Monday 5 January 2026 - noon
We are using the Charity Job anonymous recruitment process - please ensure that you apply through the portal.

Please log into your CharityJob candidate account to access and download the Persons Specification and to submit your application.

**No Agencies please**

#Chief Executive Officer #CEO #Executive #Leadership 

The Head of Policy and Advocacy will lead the strategic development and delivery of MCF’s policy, advocacy and research agenda.Join the UK’s leading network for Muslim-led charities, strengthening the capacity, voice and impact of nearly 300 organisations.

Job role: Head of Policy and Advocacy

Employer: Muslim Charities Forum

Salary:£42,000 – 45,000 per annum

Hours: Full-time, 35 hours per week (4 days office-based, 1 day hybrid/remote)

Position: Fixed Term Contract, 3 years.

Location: London SE1.Nearest stations Waterloo, Lambeth North

Closing date for applications:16th December 2025, 5.00pm or until a suitable candidate is identified.

About Muslim Charities Forum (MCF) 

Muslim Charities Forum (MCF) is the UK’s leading network for Muslim-led charities, strengthening the capacity, voice and impact of nearly 300 organisations. Guided by our pillars of Support, Connect and Represent, we champion excellence, transparency and social justice through resources, capacity-building, research and advocacy. 

We work to tackle structural and funding barriers, influence government, policymakers and the wider sector, and build a more sustainable, equitable Muslim-led charitable landscape. Through strategic partnerships and collaborations, we drive systemic change and amplify the contributions of Muslim-led organisations across society. 

Role Purpose 

The Head of Policy and Advocacy will lead the strategic development and delivery of MCF’s policy, advocacy and research agenda. The role involves shaping long-term strategy, building a robust evidence base, influencing government and policymakers, and representing MCF at senior levels across the charity, public and political sectors. 

The postholder will engage proactively with central and local government, devolved authorities, and regional mayors, ensuring that the voices and experiences of Muslim-led organisations are represented in policy development and decision-making. 

They will work collaboratively with MCF’s Communications, Partnerships, and Systemic Change and Sector Capacity teams to ensure a coordinated and strategic approach that delivers sustainable, long-term impact. 

Key Responsibilities 

1. Strategy and Leadership 

• Develop and deliver the next three-year Policy and Advocacy Strategy aligned with MCF’s organisational objectives. 

• Provide strategic advice to the CEO, Senior Leadership Team, and Board on policy opportunities and risks. 

• Lead and develop the Policy and Advocacy team, fostering a high-performing, inclusive and collaborative culture. 

2. Policy, Research and Insight 

• Monitor and analyse UK policy and regulatory developments affecting Muslim-led civil society. 

• Oversee research, consultations and data-driven insight to inform MCF’s policy positions. 

• Produce high-quality policy outputs, including reports, consultation responses and position statements. 

3. Influencing and Stakeholder Engagement 

• Lead MCF’s engagement with central government, local authorities, devolved administrations and regional mayors, as well as regulators and sector networks. 

• Build and maintain strategic relationships with ministers, parliamentarians, senior officials, think tanks and sector leaders. 

• Coordinate MCF’s public affairs activity, including roundtables, Select Committee and APPG engagement, and representation at high-level external forums. 

• Strengthen MCF’s profile as a credible and influential voice for Muslim-led civil society across all tiers of government and the voluntary sector. 

4. Sector Capacity and Member Support 

• Engage MCF’s members and Muslim-led organisations in collective policy development and advocacy. 

• Design and deliver tools, training and resources to build members’ influencing capacity. 

• Identify and advocate for structural solutions to sector-wide challenges, including funding inequality, regulatory barriers and intersectional disadvantage. 

5. Monitoring, Evaluation and Reporting 

• Develop and implement frameworks to assess the effectiveness and impact of MCF’s policy and advocacy work. 

• Provide regular progress reports to the CEO. 

• Ensure compliance with charity law, lobbying and regulatory requirements. 

Person Specification 

Essential Criteria 

• Significant experience (5+ years) in senior policy, advocacy or influencing roles within the UK charity or voluntary sector. 

• Demonstrable success influencing government at national, local or devolved levels, achieving measurable policy or funding change. 

• Strong understanding of the UK charity policy, funding and regulatory environment. 

• Knowledge of the UK Muslim-led and/or faith-based civil society landscape. 

• Experience amplifying marginalised voices and embedding lived experience into policy and advocacy work. 

• Proven ability to lead teams and deliver organisational strategy. 

• Excellent analytical, written and verbal communication skills, with strong political acumen. 

• Commitment to social justice, equity and strengthening Muslim-led civil society. 

Desirable Criteria 

• Experience working with Muslim-led, faith-based or minority-led organisations. 

• Understanding of intersectionality and its impact on underrepresented communities. 

• Experience of research collaboration with academic institutions or think tanks. 

• Proven track record in building partnerships for policy or advocacy initiatives. 

Values and Behaviours 

• Strategic and forward-thinking leadership. 

• Collaborative and inclusive approach to diverse stakeholders. 

• Resilience and adaptability in complex, fast-changing environments. 

• Integrity and credibility in representing MCF and the wider sector. 

• Strong commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion. 

• Excellent communication skills, particularly in amplifying underrepresented voices. 

Additional Information 

This is a senior leadership position. Occasional evening or parliamentary activities may be required, along with UK-wide travel. 

What We Offer 

• The opportunity to lead impactful change within one of the UK’s most dynamic faith-based networks. 

• A collaborative, inclusive, and supportive working environment. 

• Opportunities for professional growth, leadership, and innovation. 

Application Information 

To apply, please send a CV (no more than 2 pages) and a covering letter (max 1,000 words) explaining how you meet the essential criteria and your motivation and suitability for the post.

We are an equal opportunities employer. We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds and are particularly keen to hear from candidates with lived experience of marginalisation and an understanding of Islamic ethos.  

We reserve the right to withdraw this role once a suitable candidate is identified. 

If you have not heard from us concerning your application within 6 weeks, please assume your application has been unsuccessful. 

Interviews: Initial online short interview (stage 1), face-to-face in-office interview (stage 2). 

No agencies.

UK residents only.Sponsorship is not possible for this post. References will be taken up prior to appointment including relevant ID checks. 

We’re looking for a creative and passionate person to lead on our policy and communications work for this maternity cover. This role offers a great opportunity to play a key role in improving impact across the charity and the lives of those affected

The Migraine Trust is the only UK migraine charity providing information and support, campaigning for awareness and change, and funding and promoting research.

One in seven people in the UK live with migraine, and this complex and debilitating neurological disorder significantly affects their lives. We have been leading and bringing the migraine community together to change this since 1965.

Every year we support millions of people through our website and support services on all aspects of migraine and for help in managing it at work, in education, and in accessing healthcare. We campaign for increased awareness and understanding of migraine, and national policy change to improve the lives of people who get it. We have funded over 140 medical research projects and hold an international symposium every two years to bring together the world’s leading experts on migraine.

The role

People living with migraine are at the heart of our organisation, while our research highlights the urgent need to reduce the inequity we see for those living with the condition. You will ensure their voices are heard by decision makers and the public and get closer to our vison of ‘a world where migraine doesn’t stop anyone from living the life they want’.

You should be able to deliver high-impact communication campaigns, and have a real interest in policy. A skilled communicator yourself, you will be able to manage a broad role with the ability to build and nurture relationships with a wide range of stakeholders. Overall, you’ll bring a desire to create positive change.

You’ll work closely with the CEO and be a key member of The Migraine Trust’s Senior Management team, leading our strategic direction on communications activity alongside targeted public and political campaigns.

Key responsibilities:

• Lead the delivery of the organisation’s 2026 policy and communications plans and coordinate the development of plans and budgets for 2027
• Oversee development and delivery of the charity’s policy and public affairs strategy, ensuring a strong evidence base and meaningful involvement of people living with migraine
• Manage work our public affairs agency to deliver targeted influencing projects to improve migraine care, workplace support, and parliamentary engagement
• Shape policy recommendations and develop strategies to engage key stakeholders including parliamentarians, policymakers, clinicians, employers and partner organisations
• Monitor the external policy environment identifying risks, opportunities and emerging issues relevant to migraine
• Work with the team to develop and execute creative and impactful communications campaigns to raise the profile of the charity and tackle misunderstanding around migraine
• Ensure content across all channels – including media, digital, social and publications - is on brand and reflects our values and core messaging
• Ensure our online presence meets the needs of our stakeholders, and is fit-for-purpose for current and future organisational needs
• Oversee production of relevant reports, marketing materials and key publications working with freelance agencies and designers as required
• Work closely with Fundraising colleagues to identify and develop opportunities that support organisational growth
• Ensure all those living with migraine and their voices are central to our policy, campaigning and communications work
• Act as a spokesperson when necessary, representing the charity externally

The above is provided for guidance and is not an exhaustive list of all accountabilities that the post holder may have over time.

Knowledge and Experience

Essential

• A creative and experienced communications leader
• Wide experience working in the field of communications (in house or agency) and able to demonstrate knowledge of a broad range of communications activities
• Demonstrable experience of developing media strategies and managing media relations to achieve results
• Ability to deliver policy and public affairs strategies that create change
• A strategic thinker able to develop new ideas and turn these into action
• A strong leader and manager
• Excellent written and spoken communication skills and the ability to communicate, engage and build relationships with a wide range of audiences across the organisation and externally
• Calm under pressure with sound judgment
• Confidence to represent The Migraine Trust externally including public speaking as necessary
• Ability to manage a diverse workload and work under pressure.

Desirable

• Experience working within a health, disability, or long-term conditions context
• Experience of the voluntary sector and/or lived experience engagement
• Knowledge of digital transformation or digital communications best practice

The Migraine Trust is an equal opportunities employer, and we welcome applications from all suitably experienced persons regardless of their race, socioeconomic backgrounds, gender, disability status, ethnicity, religion/faith, sexual orientation, or age.

How to apply

For the full role description, and to apply, please visit our website. Interviews will be week commencing 5th January. If you would like an informal discussion to find out more about the role before submitting an application, or have any other queries, we encourage you to get in touch.

Carers Trust is looking for a Policy and Practice Office to join the team in Wales. This role is central to advancing our mission by amplifying the voices of unpaid carers, ensuring their experiences shape policy and practice, and strengthening the visibility and accessibility of carer support services across Wales. 

As Managing Director, you will provide strategic direction for the charity, employing a collaborative leadership style to ensure that the achievement of the charity’s vision and objectives is supported by an engaged and culturally healthy staff team.

You will ensure the projects are run in-line with our policies, legal requirements, and budgets, with an overarching understanding of the charity’s finances and fundraising.

You will also be a figurehead for the organisation, effectively networking, partnering and influencing across sectors.

Lastly, but most importantly, you will be passionate about the transformative power of connection across division, and how the projects we create serve this core purpose.

BIND UK is a specialist team offering expert advice and guidance to organisations that are determined to deliver practical, positive and permanent impact to the UK’s Food Waste Challenge. We believe change is created not by a handful of people doing sustainability perfectly, but by everyone doing a little something. Find out more about our values and purpose here. 

About Eat Smart 

Eat Smart is a successful primary school educational programme born in the NE of England designed to inspire children and schools to reduce food waste and build sustainable food systems. We deliver engaging resources and learning experiences that empower schools and pupils to have more ownership of their kitchens/dinner halls, improve student wellbeing, and have increased environmental awareness.

Since 2018 Eat Smart has enabled 70 schools in North East England to rescue their food waste by over 25%, equivalent to saving 6,000 meals worth £13,000 per school, per year, and our expansion to other areas of the UK has already begun. With an ever-growing data set and credibility for school food waste prevention, we have increasing potential to affect school food policy and deliver food waste prevention interventions on a national level. 

As we expand our delivery across the UK, we are seeking a dynamic and strategic Development Manager to lead the expansion via a franchise model, build partnerships, and oversee the operational excellence of our growing network.

This is a pivotal leadership role focused on scaling the Eat Smart model nationally. The postholder will drive growth by developing regional and national partnerships, securing funding streams, recruiting and onboarding delivery partners, and ensuring quality and impact across all Eat Smart schools and organisations. 

You will combine strong operational management with strategic business development — ensuring Eat Smart continues to grow sustainably, aligning with Bind’s aims and values. 

Key Responsibilities 

Strategic Growth & Project Development 

• Co-develop and deliver a UK-wide expansion strategy for Eat Smart
• Develop and manage the franchise/licensing model for national delivery partners
• Lead on the recruitment, onboarding, and support of partner organisations to deliver the Eat Smart programme effectively 

Funding & Partnership Development 

• Identify, establish and nurture partnerships with national and local government agencies, policy makers, school bodies and funders
• Build strategic relationships with relevant education, environment and community organisations 
• Research relevant funding opportunities for delivery partners and Bind
• Support delivery partners with the submission of funding applications 

UK Network Management & Evaluation 

• Co-design/develop the Eat Smart monitoring and evaluation system to monitor KPIs and the environmental and social impact of Eat Smart across the UK
• Lead on the management of the monitoring and evaluation system, supporting delivery partners where necessary 
• Create local and national impact reports for Eat Smart and use insights to inform improvement and growth 
• Manage the support network of UK delivery partners, ensuring they are able to deliver the programme effectively 
• Assist delivery partners with meetings with Local Authorities and catering organisations 

Marketing & Communications 

• Co-design and lead on delivery of annual Eat Smart conferences
• Represent Eat Smart at events, conferences, and networking opportunities across the UK 
• Manage Eat Smart UK social media channels 
• Develop digital and print materials to support programme promotion and recruitment

Person Specification

Essential: 

• Align with Bind’s values. If you are this, we can teach you the rest!
• Understanding of third sector grant funding landscape and experience in successful bid writing 
• Strong project management and organisational skills 
• Experience in partnership and stakeholder recruitment and management
• Ability to lead, inspire, and develop teams of partners remotely
• Experience with monitoring, evaluation, and reporting frameworks
• Entrepreneurial mindset with a passion for improving environmental and education outcomes. 
• Excellent written and verbal communicator and proficient in IT systems (shared documents, spreadsheets, Zoom/Teams/Meet, social media, website editing and emails) 

Desirable: 

• Interest in, and awareness of, food waste on a local and global level
• Experience in business development, franchise management, or operational leadership
• Experience working in education, environment or social impact sectors
• Knowledge of primary school systems 
• Experience of community engagement in the UK 
• Full driving license and access to own vehicle 

** A Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) Enhanced Disclosure Check will be required for the post, but a clean DBS certificate is not essential for the role - we will review employees with a criminal record on a case-by-case basis. **

What We Offer 

• Opportunity to shape and lead the national growth of an amazing educational programme 
• A collaborative, mission-driven environment with real social and environmental impact 
• Flexible working arrangements and supportive leadership. Many of our Eat Smart staff choose to work term-time only 
• Remote working, with an office in Newcastle's Ouseburn Valley 
• Being part of a small and passionate team, who believe in a positive disruptive mission to change the food waste landscape across the UK. 

Key Information

• Deadline for all applications is Mon 12th January 2026 at 9am – applications received after this date will not be considered.
• In-person interviews will take place on 21st January 2026 in Newcastle.
• Based in Newcastle’s Ouseburn Valley but this role can be worked remotely/hybrid (some UK-wide travel required incl. a trip to Newcastle minimum monthly)
• Contract: 30-32 hours per week (with the option of increased hours during term-time and reduced hours in school holidays). 
• The start date will be end of February 2026, but start dates will be discussed at interview.
• We will contact all applicants as soon as possible to inform them of the status of their application.

Policy and Public Affairs Manager
Harrogate, North Yorkshire

We offer hybrid working and we are committed to paying the Real Living Wage.

About Us

Yorkshire is one of the regions hardest hit by cancer. Together, we can change this.

Yorkshire Cancer Research is a charity dedicated to funding research so that you and those you love live longer healthier lives, free of cancer.

Thanks to supporters, the charity funds vital cancer research and pioneers innovative new services for people with cancer. These life-giving medical breakthroughs are helping more people survive cancer – in Yorkshire, and beyond.

As an inclusive employer, our aim is to ensure our workforce reflects the rich diversity of our region. We believe a diverse workforce is vital to us taking action to prevent, diagnose and treat cancer more effectively in Yorkshire. We offer equal opportunities regardless of race, religion or belief, age, disability, sex, gender reassignment, sexual orientation, pregnancy and maternity, marriage and civil partnerships.

The Benefits

We offer all employees a wide range of benefits including an enhanced contributory pension scheme, 25 days annual leave plus Bank Holidays (increasing to 30 days after 5 years’ service), flexible working arrangements, private medical insurance, enhanced maternity leave, career progression, learning and development, wellbeing initiatives, offices within walking distance of Hornbeam Park train station, free onsite parking and a whole lot more.

We’ve got a strong set of values that inform everything we do and we’re looking for people who are aligned with these. As our Policy and Public Affairs Manager, you will put people in Yorkshire at the heart of everything you do, unite with colleagues and other organisations in this cause, and dare to think big and bold to make positive solutions happen.

The Role

We are seeking an experienced and highly motivated Policy and Public Affairs Manager to join our Research, Policy and Impact team.

Supporting the Head of Cancer Insight, you will continue to develop and deliver a policy and public affairs strategy, including influencing at a local, regional, and national level, with the aim of helping the charity achieve its strategy and bringing benefit to the people of Yorkshire. You will develop evidence-based policy reports and recommendations that can be used to influence a variety of audiences and project manage the development, delivery and evaluation of public affairs campaigns and events. As Policy and Public Affairs Manager, you will also act as a source of expertise across the organisation and externally on key policy areas and the wider policy environment.

Specifically, you will:

Influencing

· Support the further development, refinement and delivery of the charity’s influencing strategy and impact evaluation process, in line with the charity’s own strategic ambitions.

· Lead the development of insightful written materials and reports to aid influencing.

· Lead the charity’s response to regional and national consultations relevant to cancer in Yorkshire, making a robust and evidence-based case for the charity’s position.

· Oversee the continued growth of the charity’s political monitoring work and ensure the effective pursuit of every opportunity offered.

· Engage with regional and national decision makers to influence policy-making for the benefit of people in Yorkshire and beyond.

· Grow relationships with key stakeholders across Yorkshire and beyond (such as DHSC, NHSE, Integrated Care Boards, Cancer Alliances, national policy groups, and other charities, to influence change based on policy recommendations.

Policy development

· Support the continued development of the policy production and dissemination process, including the policy development pathway, internal/external dissemination and impact evaluation.

· Lead the research, production and dissemination of high quality, evidence-based cancer-related policies and the strategic development of key policy recommendations.

· Oversee regular updates of existing policies and position statements, ensuring that topical policies are updated frequently.

· Ensure external insight is built into policies and policy development, such as gaining views from the Patient and Public Involvement Community, the inclusion of external patient and public contributors and endorsements from clinical and academic experts.

· Oversee work with relevant internal teams to create key messages for a range of internal and external stakeholders, ensuring these are in line with the latest evidence and are used correctly, and provide expert commentary on media stories.

· Act as a source of expertise on the charity’s cancer-related policies and position statements, both internally and externally. Undertake media interviews as required to communicate key messages with the public.

Campaigns and Events

· Project manage the development, delivery and evaluation of public affairs campaigns, in collaboration with the Brand and Relationships team where relevant, manage relationships with third parties to support campaign delivery where required.

· Lead the outreach and delivery of influencing events, including visits to charity-funded projects and party conference activity.

· Further develop and deliver of a strategy for growing and maintaining a handraiser supporter base, to enhance public affairs campaigns activity.

About You

To be considered for this role, you will need:

· To have a degree in a relevant subject area, for example public policy, public health, scientific, medical etc.

· To have substantial experience of writing influencing materials such as briefings, letters, blogs, campaign materials.

· To have substantial experience supporting the implementation of high impact campaigns that engage the public and are designed to influence. Experience of working on campaigns that encourage behaviour change.

· To have experience of evaluating campaigns, and assessing the impact of policy and public affairs activities.

· To have excellent Public Affairs experience including understanding of local, regional and national government, the current health policy landscape as well as knowledge of UK parliamentary processes along with a proven track-record of engaging politically to make change happen.

· To have substantial experience of developing evidence-based policies for a health focused organisation.

· To have substantial experience of communicating health policy positions to a variety of audiences including for influencing purposes.

· To have a good understanding of the health care system in England.

· To be a strategic thinker with strong analytical, judgement and decision-making skills.

· To be able to sift out the essential elements from a mass of complex information, integrate and synthesise ideas, and present information to others in an accessible way.

· To be a pro-active and creative approach to policy work with an ability to identify and use external opportunities and a desire to succeed.

· To have excellent verbal, written communication and presentation skills with the ability to interpret complex information and communicate this to a range of audiences so it is clear and accessible.

· To have excellent organisational and time management skills with the ability to prioritise work, handle conflicting demands and meet tight deadlines with exceptional levels of accuracy maintained.

· To have strong management and leadership skills, with the ability to coach team members to encourage continued development and learning.

· To have strong networking, influencing and relationship management skills, with the ability to inspire and influence others, as well as the confidence and personal authority to work with external organisations.

Application

Before applying, please visit our Careers Page to view the full role profile and find out more about working for Yorkshire Cancer Research.

To apply please submit a CV and cover letter outlining your suitability for the role to Claire Wooldridge, Head of People,before 15 December 2025. Please read our privacy notice before applying.

Yorkshire Cancer Research is a responsible and flexible employer.  We welcome any discussion for flexible working at the interview/offer stage where we will consider an individual’s circumstances against the needs of the charity.

We positively encourage applications from suitably qualified and eligible candidates from all backgrounds. If we can make any reasonable adjustments to support your application please contact us via our website.