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Policy and Public Affairs Officer – Shape the Future of Science and Policy
Join the Society as a Policy and Public Affairs Officer and play a pivotal role in placing physiology at the heart of evidence-based policy. This is a unique opportunity to influence public policy on key issues such as health, healthy ageing, and climate change, while supporting physiologists to lead in shaping the research and funding landscape.
What You’ll Do
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Develop and influence policy: Research, design, and advocate for evidence-based policies that advance physiology and its impact on society.
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Engage stakeholders: Build and maintain strong relationships with policymakers, parliamentarians, civil servants, and partner organisations.
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Communicate and advocate: Produce policy briefings, statements, and publications, leveraging digital platforms and member networks to share your work widely.
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Support the community: Work closely with committees, internal teams, and members to gather insights and ensure policies reflect the needs of the physiology community.
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Deliver impact: Organise events, track policy developments, and coordinate proactive projects that drive the Society’s objectives forward.
About You
You are a proactive, strategic thinker with a passion for policy and public affairs, ideally within science, health, or climate sectors. You have excellent communication and analytical skills, experience engaging with diverse stakeholders, and the ability to manage multiple projects while meeting deadlines.
Essential Requirements – Summary
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1–3 years’ experience in policy, public affairs, government, agency, or related roles.
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Degree in life sciences, public policy, political science, or equivalent.
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Strong written and verbal communication skills; able to translate complex information for different audiences.
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Experience developing and advocating policy positions, ideally in science, health, or climate sectors.
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Ability to build and maintain relationships with diverse stakeholders.
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Strong organisational skills; able to manage multiple projects and meet deadlines.
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Experience engaging with government, parliamentarians, and other stakeholders to influence policy.
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Able to work collaboratively across teams and independently when required
Why Join Us?
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Influence public policy at a national and international level.
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Collaborate with a passionate, expert team committed to advancing physiology.
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Be part of an inclusive, diverse, and forward-thinking organisation that values your perspective.
What we offer
- Excellent benefits including Private Medical Insurance and a generous pension scheme.
- Hybrid working - 2 anchor days in the office.
- A friendly team and bright offices based in the heart of Farringdon.
Applications
To apply, please ensure you download and review the attached job description. Applications are by way of an up to date CV and cover letter detailing why you are suitable for the role.
We reserve the right to interview suitable candidates before the closing date and to hire if we are ready to before the closing date.
Please note: DO NOT APPLY if you do not have the legal right to work in the UK. We do not offer sponsorships.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Join us as a Public Affairs Officer to support the growth of our influencing and campaigning profile, helping to deliver high-impact content and campaigns that mobilise supporters, influence policy and raise awareness of issues that impact equine welfare in the UK and around the world.
About the role
As part of our Public Affairs team, you’ll lead on supporter content and digital communications, tailoring messages for different audiences to maximise reach and engagement. You’ll support research and report writing, monitor UK and EU policy developments, and track campaign performance to help shape future work. You’ll also play a key role in growing and engaging our supporter network—mobilising people to take action and strengthening our influence with decisionmakers.
This is a part-time role, working remotely for three days a week between 09:00 to 16:00. There is flexibility to discuss which days would suit you best, except for Wednesdays, which are required. You will be required to attend the charity’s head office located in Norfolk a minimum of 6 times per year and this will be at your own expense for travel and accommodation.
About you:
You’re a clear, confident communicator with experience writing for digital channels, using campaign technology and working collaboratively across teams. You build positive relationships with supporters and stakeholders and understand how campaigning can influence decision makers, supported by knowledge of UK and/or EU legislative frameworks. You’re organised and pro-active, able to manage multiple priorities and adapt quickly in a fast-moving environment. Analytical and research skills, an understanding of equines and the ability to speak another language are desirable.
What we offer:
- Pension scheme with enhanced employer contributions up to 8%, rising to 12% with length of service.
- Employee health cash plan to cover expenses such as dental, optical, physiotherapy, etc.
- Annual Leave entitlement of 20 days (increasing to 25 days with service), plus bank holidays, plus a Christmas allowance for mandatory shutdown.
- Paid employee sickness absence scheme and compassionate leave.
- Life assurance scheme of 4x annual salary.
World Horse Welfare is committed to championing equality and diversity in all aspects of employment and the services we provide. We actively encourage applications from under-represented groups, particularly ethnically diverse communities, LGBTQ+ and people with disabilities.
World Horse Welfare takes great pride in being realistic, compassionate and forward-thinking and the successful applicant for any of our vacancies will be expected to share these values.
World Horse Welfare’s vision is a world where every horse is treated with respect, compassion and understanding.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Annual leave: 33 days (plus eight bank holidays)
Benefits:
- enhanced maternity, paternity and adoption leave, and shared parental pay
- family-friendly policies
- 8% employer pension contribution (Aviva)
- three x basic salary life assurance cover
- free health cashback plan (Medicash): employee cover plus up to four dependent children
- 24/7 virtual GP access (UK registered), plus access to Best Doctors
free, confidential employee assistance programme (Medicash) - access to a wellbeing app
- flexible working options including hybrid working, flexible working patterns such as part-time, compressed hours, and more*
- learning and development opportunities including bespoke training and access to LinkedIn Learning)
- commitment to employee health and wellbeing.
- we have a Menopause Friendly accreditation and are a Disability Confident employer
Join Dementia UK as Policy and Public Affairs Manager (Scotland) and play a pivotal role in shaping our influence as we deliver our 2025–30 strategy. This new role reflects a significant investment in expanding our Campaigns, Policy and Public Affairs function, strengthening our ability to drive change across all nations of the UK. You will lead our work to amplify Dementia UK’s voice in Scotland, ensuring that the experiences of people living with dementia, and the Admiral Nurses who support them, drive meaningful improvements in care and support.
You will spearhead our political and policy engagement in Scotland, building trusted relationships with MSPs, civil servants, political advisers and sector partners. Through sharp political insight and rigorous policy development, you will help shape our influencing priorities, identify strategic opportunities, and position Dementia UK as a credible and authoritative voice on dementia care within the Scottish policy landscape.
Working collaboratively with colleagues across policy, public affairs, campaigns, communications, clinical services and lived experience, you will develop and deliver a Scottish policy and public affairs strategy that aligns with our UK-wide approach. You will also represent Dementia UK externally as our primary political contact in Scotland, ensuring our perspectives are heard in key debates and decision‑making forums.
To thrive in this role, you will bring strong political instincts, deep knowledge of Scottish political institutions and policy processes, and a proven ability to build influential relationships with senior stakeholders. You will be a strategic thinker with the confidence to lead evidence-based policy development, assess risks and opportunities in a fast-moving environment, and drive forward activity that supports our long-term ambition to transform dementia care across the UK.
We would love to hear from you! If you would like to find out more about the role, or have any queries, please get in touch via the email on our website.
Our culture
In addition to a competitive salary and a generous benefits package, we truly value our people. It’s important for us to create a working environment that looks after our workforce to support them in achieving their full potential. You will become part of a diverse and dedicated team who are supported to use and develop their skills. We recognise and value the key role you will play in delivering our strategic plans for the benefit of those living with dementia.
Our staff have a voice. Representatives from different roles and levels across the organisation positively contribute to and lead on our working groups around health and wellbeing, menopause, and equity, diversity and inclusion.
Dementia UK is proud to welcome everyone. We aim for a truly inclusive culture with talented, diverse teams that represent a variety of backgrounds, perspectives, and skills. We celebrate difference and individuality and encourage everyone to join us and be their whole selves always.
Dementia UK is a Disability Confident Employer.
By applying to join Dementia UK, you acknowledge that in the event you are successful for the role, any offer and your ongoing employment will be conditional on you having or obtaining the right to work in the UK.
*Please note that any decision on flexible working is based on business needs
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
About us
We’re Breast Cancer Now, the research and support charity. We’re the place to turn to for anything and everything to do with breast cancer. However you’re experiencing breast cancer, we’re here.
The brightest minds in breast cancer research are here. Making life-saving research happen in labs across the UK and Ireland. Support services, trustworthy breast cancer information and specialist nurses are here. Ready to support you whenever you need it. Dedicated campaigners are here. Fighting for the best possible treatment, services and care for anyone affected by breast cancer.
About the role
We’re looking for a motivated and committed public affairs manager to join the policy, evidence and influencing team. In this role, you’ll help deliver change for people affected by breast cancer by leading our public affairs work in the UK Parliament and across England.
You’ll be responsible for developing and delivering a public affairs strategy to raise awareness of the critical issues for people affected by breast cancer. You’ll work with colleagues across the team and organisation to design influencing activities and events that deliver change. You’ll build strong relationships with parliamentarians and other public affairs stakeholders.
This role manages a public affairs officer. You’ll work closely with them to provide the secretariat for the All-Party Parliamentary Group on Breast Cancer.
About you
With experience of working in relevant public affairs roles to deliver significant change, you’ll be an excellent communicator, well-organised and able to work under pressure to tight deadlines. You’ll be confident working with a wide range of people and have experience of supervising or managing people. You’ll also have an excellent understanding of the policy and influencing landscape that Breast Cancer Now works in.
Job description and benefits
Please download the job description and our attractive benefits package.
Primary location of role and hybrid working
This role is primarily based in our London office. Our hybrid working model allows you to work up to 3 days per week at home.
When applying
We hope you choose to apply for this role. To support your application, you’ll be asked to submit your anonymised CV and a supporting statement online. Please refer to the essential criteria on the person specification and clearly provide as much information as you can with examples, to demonstrate how and where you meet the criteria.
Our commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion
We’re committed to promoting equity, valuing diversity and creating an inclusive environment – for everyone who works for us, works with us, supports us and who we support.
Closing date Monday 16 March 2026 9am
Interview date week commencing 23 March 2026
We reserve the right to close this advert early. Therefore, to avoid disappointment please submit your application as soon as possible, if you’re interested in this opportunity.
This is an exciting opportunity to engage in parliamentary, policy and civil society engagement work. We are looking for a Public Affairs Officer to support the implementation of the Trust's Public Affair's strategy. Working closely with the Public Affairs Manager, the role helps to build understanding and commitment among policy-makers ensuring that the Holocaust remains a central part of the UK's national consciousness. The successful candidate will provide meaningful support to activity that influences decision and policy makers; develop strong relationships with stakeholders; and provide ongoing political support for Holocaust education and antisemitism education across the UK.
Over the course of our history, the Trust has created and delivered innovative and meaningful learning experiences and educational programmes which reach over 100,000 young people each year, teaching them about what the Holocaust was, and its relevance today. The school programmes we deliver include our Outreach Programme, our Lessons from Auschwitz Project; The Youth Advocacy Programme; Testimony 360: People and Places of the Holocaust; and Teacher Training.
The successful candidate will provide meaningful support to activity that influences decsion and policy makers; develop strong relationships with stakeholders; and provide ongoing political support for Holocaust education and antisemitism education across the UK.
The Officer contributes essential research, coordination, written and logistical support to the Public Affairs Manager.
Key Responsibilities:
- Parliamentary and Public Affairs Support
- Political and Policy Monitoring
- Events and Engagement
- Team and Organisational Support
To find out more, and for details on how to apply, interested candidates should read the full application pack and head to our website to apply.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
The Woodland Trust is looking for a Public Affairs Manager to take lead responsibility for managing the Woodland Northern Ireland’s (WTNI) relationship with the NI Executive, Government, relevant statutory agencies and key NI , ROI and UK political audiences. To advocate and campaign for changes in legislation, policies, incentives, strategies and plans which reflect the Trust’s priorities in NI and the Island of Ireland . To take responsibility for leading on local development plan consultations and the Trust’s relationship with local councils and the wider eNGO sector.
The Role:
- In the context of our Corporate Strategy, UK policies and position statements and Northern Ireland Plan, to define our Northern Ireland Public Affairs and campaigning goals and to develop and manage a prioritised programme of policy and advocacy work to achieve them.
- Collaborate with colleagues across Northern Ireland and the UK to maximise the Trust’s policy and advocacy impact, enabling colleagues to be effective policy advocates.
- Provide technical and expert support, advice and briefings to the Northern Ireland Director, and other colleagues where relevant, on policy and advocacy matters.
- Lead Public Affairs in the Northern Ireland team, and any consultants as appropriate, providing clarity of direction, inspiring our staff and building capabilities and skills, upholding and actively promoting the values and behaviours of the Trust.
- Oversee, and where relevant lead, the development and management of relationships with NI Government, including Ministers, MLAs, researchers, advisors and civil servants, as well as local government, statutory bodies and other influential organisations across farming, forestry and business in line with the NI public Affairs plan.
- Represent the Trust and our policy and advocacy priorities externally, including negotiating consensus positions within external coalitions including NI Environment Link, with key stakeholders and potential partners.
- Actively monitor, gather intelligence, understand and analyse relevant areas of NI policy and politics, acting on key opportunities. Evaluate future threats and opportunities facing the Trust’s cause in NI, brief colleagues and steer our advocacy messaging accordingly.
- Work closely with other teams and departments, especially Comms & Engagement, UK Campaigns and Conservation and External Affairs, to coordinate and integrate political advocacy and campaigning messages with the Trust’s wider communications and influencing strategies and plans.
- Contribute to ensuring appropriate and efficient use Woodland Trust funds, including setting and managing the NI Public Affairs budget.
- Monitor and report on progress against KPIs, and the team’s contribution to the Trust’s strategic aims.
The Candidate:
- You’ll be experienced in building strong relationships and proven record in delivery in partnership with local councils
- You’ll be experienced influencing legislation and working directly with government depts.
- You’ll have a proven track record in public affairs and policy delivery and experience of working with the environmental/voluntary sector.
- You’ll be experienced with relationship management - a developer of relationships with exceptional networking ability; able to spot opportunities and connections, evaluate them and act on them, both internally and externally.
- You’ll be experienced setting clear goals and priorities and take responsibility for their delivery,
- You’ll be experienced demonstrating tenacity and enthusiasm in achieving them.
- You’ll need a working knowledge of current affairs, and the processes through which legislation and policy are developed and delivered.
- You’ll need to know of current environmental policy, conservation and land management issues.
- You’ll need to know of the NI Executive and Government and the ability to use that knowledge to achieve results.
- You’ll need to know how to communicate effectively through both written and oral, research and analytical skills.
- You’ll need to know current affairs, and the processes through which legislation and policy are developed and delivered.
- Educated to degree level or equivalent in relevant subject or extensive experience
- Full UK driving licence would be an advantage.
- The successful candidate will be required to undertake a Basic Background Check, as part of our pre-employment screening.
Benefits and Wellbeing:
Joining our team means you’ll be a big part of tackling environmental and climate issues. We take good care of our staff, offering support and training opportunities. We also offer:
- Enhanced Employer Pension
- Life Assurance
- Flexible & Hybrid Working Options
- Generous Annual Leave - 25 Days Plus Bank Holidays (pro rata’d for part-time)
- Buy and Sell Holiday Scheme
- Enhanced Parental Pay
- Employee Assistance Programme
About Us:
The Woodland Trust is the UK’s leading woodland conservation charity. We want to see a world where trees and woods thrive for people and nature. The Trust engages and inspires people to make their difference tackling the nature and climate crisis helping protect, restore and create our vital woods and trees.
Our Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion:
To achieve our vision of a world where woods and trees thrive for people and nature, we need to better reflect society and the communities we work in. All people, no matter their background, identity, ability, or circumstance, should benefit from trees.
People of colour and disabled people are currently under-represented across the environment and conservation sector. If you identify as a person of colour and/or disabled, we particularly encourage you to apply.
Please contact us to discuss any additional support or adjustments you may need to complete your application.
Application Advice:
For fairness we keep our candidates’ personal details hidden from the hiring managers, and CVs are redacted until after shortlisting is complete.
Make sure that your Personal Statement clearly shows how your skills and knowledge link to the specifications in the job description and you share with us your passion for the role. Even if you don't meet every requirement of the role, we would encourage you to apply.
Acceptable Use - Artificial Intelligence (AI):
We understand that candidates may choose to use AI tools to support their job applications-for example, to help structure or edit written responses. We welcome the use of AI in this way, particularly where it helps improve accessibility, such as for neurodivergent applicants. However, we ask that any information submitted reflects your own experience, skills and understanding. During interviews, candidates are expected to respond independently without the use of AI tools.
Apply Now:
If you're ready to make a difference and grow with us, send in your application today. We might close the job opening early if we get a lot of applications, so it's a good idea to apply soon. If we do close the advert early, and you have an application in process, we will email you prior to closing to give you time to complete.
Interviews will be held via Microsoft Teams.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Fixed term contract until 30th April 2027.
Happy to talk about flexible working such as part-time working or flexible working hours.
ABOUT US
Somebody goes missing in the UK every 90 seconds. Missing People exists to ease the heartache experienced by those missing someone, and to help people who are away from home find their way back to safety. Our vision is for every missing child, adult and family left behind to find help, hope and a safe way to reconnect. We are a non-judgemental, highly skilled team of staff and volunteers working for everyone who needs us. We provide free, confidential support, help and advice by phone, email, text and live chat.
Missing People’s Policy and Research Team is a small team with a big impact, both within the charity and externally. We aim to create local, regional and national change to improve the response to missing people. We work in an evidence-based way, centring the experiences of those who have been or are affected by missing. As the Policy and Public Affairs Manager, you will lead work to influence improvement in the response for missing children, adults and their families at a national and local level.
THE IMPACT YOU WILL HAVE
Make a national impact on the lives of missing children, adults and their families.
Joining our Policy and Research Team, you will help influence local and national policy, ensuring that the voices and experiences of missing people and their families are heard at the highest levels. Your work will directly shape how the UK understands and responds to missing people — and will help protect those at greatest risk of harm. You will learn from and work with people who have been missing, and people who have reported a loved one missing, to shape workplans and to call for change.
You will act as Co-Secretariat for the APPG for Missing Children and Adults, and build relationships with key stakeholders in government, parliament, the police and safeguarding agencies, finding ways to engage and motivate policy makers to better understand the issues affecting missing people and their families, and to make positive changes.
You will become expert in the issue of missing, including the risks that cause people to go and the harm they experience while away. This will also involve monitoring the policy landscape for opportunities to influence changes in the response to missing people, and provide expert insight and guidance to help shape improvement.
You will represent issues facing some of the most marginalised and vulnerable communities. This might include people who face sexual or criminal exploitation, people experiencing mental health problems or people who face discrimination in the response they receive from statutory services when they seek help in relation to the issue of missing, amongst others. This will sometimes include engaging with and challenging professionals in organisations and systems that exist with embedded discrimination.
ABOUT YOU
You will have:
• Right to work in the UK.
• Previous experience of working in a policy or public affairs role;
• Experience of successfully influencing change at a local and/or national level;
• Experience of building and maintaining relationships with politicians and other policymakers, including quickly building rapport and establishing trust;
• Experience of working with Parliamentarians in All Party Parliamentary Group/s
• Experience of sensitively representing complex issues in communications with professionals or the public, particularly issues which impact on marginalised people;
• An understanding of political systems across the UK and how to influence policy within those systems;
• Knowledge of missing or linked issues, for example mental health, care experience, exploitation, homelessness, or adult social care;
• Understanding of the experiences of marginalised communities and how to ensure that those who are marginalised are included and given the opportunity to influence change;
• Proven ability to communicate complex information in a clear manner to different audiences, including some information that might challenge existing perceptions and perspectives;
• Able to work autonomously, with proven ability to move projects forward when working independently.
WHAT WE OFFER
Working for Missing People means living our values. It’s a place where people are encouraged to ‘let fly’ so you can ‘make things happen’. We know you’re more than just a job title, and ‘be human’ is an important value here. Missing People is an independent charity that relies on donations.
For further details, please see attached job description/person specification and letter to applicants.
HOW TO APPLY
Please include your CV and a brief supporting statement that demonstrates how you are a good fit for this role. We look forward to receiving your application. We reserve the right to withdraw this advert early if we receive sufficient applications, so please apply promptly.
Closing date: 23:59 on 22 March 2026
Interviews: 30/31 March 2026
Start date: 28th April 2026
You may have experience of the following: Public Affairs Lead, Policy Manager, Policy and Advocacy Manager, Government Relations Manager, External Affairs Manager, Policy and Campaigns Manager, Political Engagement Manager, Stakeholder Engagement Lead, Public Policy Advisor.
REF-227 168
Missing People is the only UK charity dedicated to reconnecting missing people and their loved ones.
The British Dyslexia Association is a national charity representing the voice of people with dyslexia. We work to influence government, shift public understanding and drive change in education, employment, health and wider society.
We’re looking for a part‑time Public Affairs & Policy Manager to lead our policy and parliamentary engagement work. This is a varied and rewarding role where you’ll help shape our influencing strategy, strengthen our relationships across Westminster and Whitehall, and ensure lived experience sits at the heart of our policy positions.
Although the role is broad and varied, you won’t be expected to manage everything all at the same time. A clear set of priorities will be agreed with the senior leadership team.
Key responsibilities:
- Lead our parliamentary engagement strategy and political influencing.
- Build relationships with MPs, Peers, Ministers, advisers and key civil servants.
- Monitor parliamentary activity, policy developments and emerging issues.
- Prepare policy briefings, consultation responses and evidence‑based reports.
- Support our presence at political events, conferences and roundtables.
- Represent the BDA in meetings and sector forums.
- Work with colleagues, researchers and people with lived experience to shape strong, accessible policy positions.
What we’re looking for:
- Experience in public affairs, parliamentary engagement or policy influencing.
- Good understanding of UK Parliamentary and government processes.
- Proven ability to shape policy or achieve change within public bodies.
- Excellent communication skills and confidence building relationships at senior levels.
- Strong organisation, political awareness and a collaborative approach.
- Passion for improving outcomes for dyslexic people.
Flexible & family‑friendly working
We are a family‑friendly employer and welcome different working patterns, including the option to spread hours across the week. We encourage candidates to tell us what works for them.
Why join us?
This is your chance to make a real difference by shaping policy, influencing decision-makers, and helping create a society where dyslexic people can thrive. You’ll work in a collaborative, supportive environment with colleagues who share your passion for positive change.
Please view the job description for full details about the role, responsibilities, and person specification before applying.
Closing date: 23 March 2026. We reserve the right to close the vacancy early if a high volume of applications is received, so we encourage you to apply early.
Use of AI in applications
We value the unique experience and perspective each candidate brings. While we understand that AI tools can be helpful in drafting applications, they can sometimes result in responses that feel generic or impersonal. This makes it harder for us to get a true sense of you.
To help your application stand out, we encourage you to write your responses in your own words. If you do use AI tools to support your writing, please treat the generated content as a starting point rather than a final answer. Make sure your application genuinely reflects your experience and voice.
To change society by removing barriers so that everyone with dyslexia can reach their full potential in education, in employment and in life.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
This is a senior communications and public affairs role at The British Institute of Human Rights (BIHR) at a pivotal moment for human rights in the UK. You will help shape public and political narratives about the Human Rights Act, amplify lived experience, and ensure BIHR’s expertise cuts through in national debates.
You will lead BIHR’s external communications - including media, digital content, and website oversight – and support evidence‑informed policy positioning and parliamentary engagement. Working closely with colleagues across the charity, you’ll transform insights from our programmes into powerful, accessible messaging and high‑impact advocacy.
This is a fantastic opportunity to join a small but mighty team known for its expertise, credibility, and influence on human rights in everyday systems.
Please note this is not an entry‑level role.
Key Responsibilities
Please refer to the Application Pack for the full details, but below is a summary.
Communications
- Lead BIHR’s external communications strategy to ensure consistent, accessible, rights‑based messaging.
- Draft proactive and reactive press releases and media statements.
- Secure media opportunities highlighting BIHR’s work and the role of the HRA/ECHR.
- Manage the consistency and quality of website content.
- Create engaging digital content that translates complex human rights issues into clear, plain language.
- Maintain a content calendar aligned with key parliamentary, policy, and public affairs milestones.
- Track and analyse engagement data to inform strategy.
Policy Evidence, Analysis & Positioning
- Conduct policy research grounded in the HRA/ECHR framework.
- Translate lived and practitioner experience into evidence‑informed policy positions and recommendations.
- Draft high‑quality briefings, consultation responses, reports, and messaging documents.
- Horizon‑scan for risks and opportunities to protect and advance human rights.
- Maintain BIHR’s internal knowledge base on HRA/ECHR and priority policy areas.
Government & Parliamentary Engagement
- Monitor UK parliamentary activity and analyse implications for the HRA/ECHR and BIHR’s work.
- Build relationships with parliamentarians, government officials, and parliamentary offices.
- Support targeted advocacy to defend the HRA/ECHR and promote rights‑respecting law and policy.
- Represent BIHR at political and policy meetings and events.
- Ensure monitoring, evaluation, and reporting of public affairs activity.
Stakeholder Engagement & Representation
- Build and sustain partnerships with NGOs, academics, policymakers, legal professionals, civil servants, and parliamentarians.
- Represent BIHR externally and engage in sector networks.
- Communicate BIHR’s policy positions and resources clearly and effectively.
- Identify opportunities for collaboration and influence.
Other organisational requirements
- Work collaboratively as part of a small team.
- Support organisational processes and continuous improvement.
- Undertake other duties as required.
Who the Role Is Suitable For
This role is ideal for someone who brings strong communications skills, policy and advocacy experience, and a commitment to human rights as practical tools for change.
You’ll thrive if you:
- Can translate complex law and policy into accessible, compelling communications.
- Have experience engaging with parliamentarians, officials, and senior stakeholders.
- Are confident in human rights frameworks, particularly the HRA.
- Enjoy working in a small, collaborative team.
- Can manage competing priorities in a fast‑moving, politically sensitive environment.
- Live within approximately one hour of London, as regular Westminster/Whitehall meetings are expected.
Please refer to the Application Pack for a detailed Person Specification.
Applying for the role
Please click on the 'Redirect to recruiter' button (above or below) to:
- Get more information about the role, how to apply, and the selection and interview process/timing.
- Download an Application Pack and Application form (and an optional Equality & Diversity Form).
Please also note that:
- Completed application forms must be received by 10am on Wednesday 11 March 2026; we regret that late applications will not be considered.
- You should not submit a CV and cover letter instead of using the application form; such applications will also not be considered.
Thank you for your interest, and we look forward to receiving your application form.
BIHR's mission is to champion the Human Rights Act as a practical tool for everyday justice.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
ImpactEd Consulting is acting as recruitment advisor to FEA on this appointment.
Thank you for your interest in the role of Director of Policy, Public Affairs and Influence at the Fair Education Alliance
We are proud to be a coalition of 300 organisations united behind a simple but powerful belief: that no child’s success should be limited by their socioeconomic background. We exist to shift the conditions that hold inequity in place through collaboration across schools, colleges, higher education institutions, charities, youth organisations, researchers, funders, and young people themselves.
Our 2025-30 strategy, From Neighbourhood to National: A Strategy to ensure every child and young person thrives, is rooted in systems change—tackling not just policies and practices, but also the resources, relationships, power and mental models that hold inequity in place. Our work targets root causes, deepens collective impact, and embraces the complexity—and opportunity—of true transformation.
We are now recruiting a Director of Policy, Public Affairs and Influence to strengthen the FEA’s external leadership at a critical point in our development. As we implement our strategy, we are placing greater emphasis on how we represent the collective insight of our members, and how we use our convening role to shape agendas at local, regional and national levels.
As a member of the Senior Leadership Team, and working closely with the Co-Chief Executive Officers, this role will lead FEA’s policy positioning and public affairs activity and play a central role in representing the Alliance externally. The Director will be trusted to shape where and how FEA engages in public debate and decision-making, ensuring that our collective voice is credible and influential, and grounded in the experience of our members and partners across the system. This includes working closely with young people, recognising them as critical contributors and often the most powerful spokespeople for our work, and creating meaningful opportunities for their voices to shape our policy and public affairs activity.
This is a senior leadership role for someone who is comfortable operating through influence rather than formal authority, and who brings confidence in navigating complex policy environments. It offers the opportunity to shape how a large, diverse coalition contributes to public debate and policy thinking at a moment when joined-up, system-level approaches to educational equity are increasingly needed.
We hope you will consider applying.
Key dates
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Applications close: Monday 16 March (10 am)
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First round interviews: 26th and 27th March (online)
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Final interviews: 1st-2nd, 7-9th April (in person at the FEA office in London)
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Start date: as soon as possible, to be agreed with the successful candidate
No child’s success should be limited by their socioeconomic background.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
About the role
The Policy and Public Affairs Manager plays a pivotal role in protecting and championing civil society. In this role you will harness the collective voice of our members and use evidence-led advocacy to influence policy, helping create the best possible environment for organisations to deliver their missions.
This role will blend strategic thinking with hands-on delivery, shaping and executing impactful, meaningful change.
Key responsibilities
- Leading on projects and influencing policy change.
- Creative public affairs activity while building trusted relationships with decision makers.
- Developing a public affairs plan to achieve on strategic aims.
- Line Management of a Policy and Public Affairs Officer.
This is an exciting opportunity for a proactive, strategic thinker who thrives on making a tangible difference. You’ll shape NCVO’s influence, deliver creative advocacy campaigns, and strengthen the sector by ensuring civil society organisations can thrive.
Your background
- Significant experience in policy, public affairs or influencing roles, ideally within the voluntary, public or membership sector.
- A strong track record of leading projects that have successfully influenced policy or built political support.
- Experience developing and delivering strategic public affairs plans aligned to organisational objectives.
- Proven ability to translate evidence and insight into compelling policy positions and advocacy campaigns.
- Strong relationship-building skills, with experience engaging decision-makers and senior stakeholders.
Joining NCVO as Policy and Public Affairs Manager offers a unique opportunity to influence the environment in which civil society operates. You’ll work at the heart of a respected, mission-driven organisation, shaping policy conversations, amplifying the collective voice of our members and driving meaningful change.
About the Team
The Policy, Public Affairs and Research team works to ensure voluntary organisations have the wider conditions they need to achieve their missions. PPA analyses the political landscape, develops and communicates credible policy solutions to support the sector, and builds strong relationships across Westminster and Whitehall.
We may close applications early if we receive a high volume of interest, so apply as soon as you can.
Why join us
With members at the heart of everything we do, we champion the charities and volunteers who make a daily difference to our communities across England. Join us and help us make communities stronger and support us making a bigger difference!
Some of NCVO’s great benefits include:
- 25 days’ annual leave (pro-rata for part-time staff), increasing based on years of service
- five days’ volunteering leave (pro rata for part-time staff)
- enhanced pay for maternity/adoption leave
- generous employer pension contribution of up to 8.5% of salary.
Find out more about the benefits of working at NCVO.
Policy and Public Affairs Officer
Are you ready to influence national policy and improve foster care for children and young people across Scotland?
Position: Policy and Public Affairs Officer
Salary: £27,953 to £33,130 per annum
Location: Hybrid, with travel to Glasgow office at least one day per week
Hours: 35 hours per week, full time
Contract: Permanent
Closing Date: Sunday 15th March
Interview Date: 24th March TBC
About the Role
This is an exciting opportunity to shape policy and influence decision makers at a pivotal time for children’s social care in Scotland.
Working within a UK wide Policy and Campaigns team, you will lead work in Scotland to influence legislation, policy and practice. You will ensure policy positions and campaigns are evidence based, drawing on research, stakeholder engagement and lived experience.
Key responsibilities include:
- Developing evidence based policy positions and solutions to influence national and local decision making
- Drafting high quality briefings, consultation responses and reports
- Leading research projects and analysing data to inform policy and campaigning prioritie
- Building and maintaining relationships with MSPs, government officials, regulators and sector partners
- Planning and delivering events such as roundtables, focus groups and parliamentary engagement activity
- Producing written content for websites, social media and member communications
- Supporting participation activity, including engagement with young people to inform influencing work
You will also play a central role in major research initiatives, including large scale surveys, ensuring outputs are robust, credible and impactful.
About You
You will bring strong experience in policy development, research and influencing, ideally within children’s social care or a related field.
You will have:
- Experience of developing policy and drafting reports and consultation responses
- Experience of campaigning, lobbying or working with parliamentary processes
- Strong research and analytical skills, including working with quantitative and qualitative data
- An understanding of Scottish Government and parliamentary structures
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills, able to translate complex issues clearly
- Experience of building effective stakeholder relationships at senior levels
- A commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion
Knowledge of foster care or children’s social care issues would be highly beneficial.
About the Organisation
This leading UK charity and membership body works to empower, enrich and support relationships at the heart of fostering. Through research, campaigning and collaboration, it seeks to improve foster care policy and practice so that children and young people can thrive.
The organisation offers flexible and hybrid working, generous annual leave, enhanced family friendly policies and a strong commitment to inclusive recruitment and support for care experienced applicants.
Other roles you may have experience of could include; Policy Officer, Public Affairs Officer, Campaigns Officer, Research Officer, Parliamentary Officer, Policy and Research Officer, External Affairs Officer, Advocacy Officer, Children’s Policy Adviser.
If you are driven by evidence, confident in influencing decision makers and passionate about improving outcomes for children and young people, we would welcome your application.
Please note this role is advertised by the recruitment agency acting for the client – Not For Profit People.
Head of Policy and Public Affairs
Bring your energy, creativity and expertise - and help us impact young people positively.
Location: Sherborne House, London (hybrid)
Salary: £52,535 per annum
Closing Date: 29 March, 2026
Employment Type: Permanent
Hours per week: 37.5
About the Role
Step into a role where your policy expertise drives real change. As Head of Policy and Public Affairs, you’ll lead an ambitious strategy to influence national decision‑makers, shape legislation and ensure the voices of people affected by homelessness are impossible to ignore. You’ll turn insight into impact, championing our values while strengthening our political presence and public profile
You’ll build powerful relationships across Westminster, Whitehall and the wider sector, producing sharp briefings, commissioning research and delivering high‑profile events that elevate Depaul’s influence. Confident in the media and skilled at simplifying complex issues, you’ll work across teams to anticipate policy change, spark innovation and help drive forward our mission to end homelessness. If you’re driven, strategic and ready to make national change happen, this is your platform.
Key deliverables:
• Develop organisational policy positions on key strategic issues for Depaul UK, focusing on policy areas that matter for our client group including homelessness, housing, welfare, health and care leavers.
• Working with the Director of Development and External Affairs to deliver a multi-year policy and public affairs strategy, you will own its delivery, having demonstrable impact on policy through influencing legislation, as well as securing funding and commitments from the government .
• Work with the Executive Director of Fundraising and Communications and their team to improve Depaul’s public profile by giving us a louder political voice.
• Work with the Executive Director of Operations and their team to ensure Depaul is well positioned to respond to changes in policy and regulation.
• Work in partnership with Depaul UK’s Head of Data and Insights on research projects designed to influence policy.
• Monitor, analyse and report on policy developments which may impact on the work of Depaul UK.
• Provide high quality written and verbal briefings, reports and submissions to consultations.
• Work with senior colleagues to develop positive relationships for Depaul UK with ministers, senior officials, elected Mayors, Parliamentarians and with other policy influencers including our peers in the homeless sector.
• Ensure that the voices and experiences of clients are heard and understood to improve and change services delivered by Depaul, commissioners and policy makers.
• Give interviews to the media.
• Organise and coordinate events and meetings.
• Strengthen Depaul’s links with other voluntary sector organisations in the homelessness, youth and faith sectors.
• Contribute to Depaul International’s global influencing work.
What we are looking for from you (Person Specification)
When completing your application form please address all the areas below. Try to provide clear examples in your supporting statement that clarify how and when you gained the experience or knowledge as well as your level of capability.
To carry out this role we are looking for the following from you in terms of qualifications, experience, skills and competencies:
Knowledge
• Strong knowledge of the homelessness sector and policy context is desirable but not essential, it is essential that you have developed strong, specialist knowledge of a UK policy area or areas.
Experience and skills
• Having had demonstrable impact on government policy.
• Developing and maintaining positive relationships with Parliamentarians and officials
• Organising or helping to organise events, it is desirable but not essential that you have organised events in Parliament
• Leading projects with colleagues from different internal or external teams
• Delivering high quality verbal and written policy briefings and presentations to senior stakeholders
• Working with colleagues to secure media coverage
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Ability to work on own initiative and with low levels of supervision
• Ability to prioritise key tasks and manage conflicting priorities
• Ability to deliver to deadlines, sometimes at short notice
• Desirable - drafting and delivering policy and/or public affairs plans/strategies
• Desirable - representing organisations in the media and at events
You will need to be able to travel throughout the UK and on occasions work out of hours.
You believe in people — their strengths, their rights and their potential. You bring empathy, energy and a solution‑focused mindset to your work. You communicate clearly, stay organised and adapt well in a fast‑moving environment. You’re committed to inclusion, fairness and continuous learning, and you turn values into meaningful action, whatever your role.
What You’ll Receive
• Tailored training and development
• Flexible working options where suitable
• 26 days annual leave, rising with service
• Family‑friendly leave policies
• Pension scheme with employer contributions up to 7%
• Employee Assistance Programme with 24/7 GP access
• Discounts across retail, travel, food, fitness and more
• Cash health plan for you and your family
• Death‑in‑service benefit
• Access to legal and practical support
Safer Recruitment
Depaul UK is committed to fair and inclusive recruitment, and we welcome applications from people of all backgrounds. If a role requires it under the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 (Exceptions) Order 1975, we will carry out the appropriate Disclosure & Barring Service (DBS) check. We only look at information that is relevant to the role, and a criminal record will never be treated as an automatic barrier to employment. All DBS information is handled sensitively, confidentially and in line with the DBS Code of Practice, and we encourage applicants to discuss any concerns with us openly.
About Depaul UK
In the 1980s, high unemployment and steep inflation was contributing to a shocking rise in youth homelessness across London. Thousands of young people were sleeping rough every night, with many areas notoriously dubbed “cardboard cities” due to the visible rise in street homelessness. Appalled by the scenes playing out across the capital, a group of people came together to tackle the challenge head on. Led by Cardinal Basil Hume and Mark McGreevy OBE, in 1989 Depaul UK was born.
What began as a single housing project in North London soon expanded across London, Greater Manchester and the North East of England. Today, Depaul UK provides accommodation, prevention and support services to thousands of marginalised young people across the UK each year.
As our name suggests, the work of Depaul UK has been inspired by St. Vincent de Paul – a man who devoted his life to helping vast numbers of people throughout the 17th century. St. Vincent de Paul’s belief in the intrinsic worth of all people and his commitment to taking bold action remain central to our values today. Depaul UK now forms part of a family of Depaul charities around the world. We each focus on the specific challenges in our own countries, but we’re united by our shared values and mission to end homelessness.
Please note this role is advertised by the recruitment agency acting for the client – Not For Profit People.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Are you ready to shape public policy for lasting social change?
Do you want to influence decision-makers and champion the voice of those affected by problem debt?
Are you driven to turn insight into action that improves lives across Wales?
We’re looking for a Senior Policy and Public Affairs Advocate to join our External Affairs team. You’ll be at the forefront of our work in Wales—connecting StepChange with key stakeholders, driving policy change, and amplifying our mission to create a society free from problem debt. This is a high-impact role where your insight and influence will help shape the future of debt policy and support vulnerable communities.
Location: This is a remote role, with regular travel required to Cardiff and travel to London once a month for meetings/events.
What you’ll be doing
- You’ll lead targeted lobbying campaigns and produce compelling evidence-based reports, briefings, and articles to influence public policy and regulatory practices.
- You’ll build and manage relationships with the Welsh Government and Parliament, and other influential figures and organisations across Wales.
- You’ll monitor developments in legislation, policy, and research—providing strategic advice on emerging threats and opportunities.
- You’ll represent StepChange at high-profile meetings, conferences, and media engagements, acting as a trusted voice for the charity.
- You’ll organise thought leadership events and roundtables and support senior leaders with speeches and briefings that drive our advocacy forward.
- You’ll ensure our work remains politically impartial and compliant with all relevant regulations, including Charity Commission rules and the Lobbying Act.
About you
- Significant experience in public affairs or public policy within Wales.
- Deep understanding of the Welsh Senedd, Welsh Government, and the broader policy-making landscape.
- Proven ability to influence senior stakeholders and deliver impactful policy change.
- Strong written and verbal communication skills, with a flair for strategic thinking and political judgement.
- Skilled at building influential networks across government, charities, and civil society.
- Organised, proactive, and passionate about social justice and equality.
- Comfortable working independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced, purpose-driven environment.
Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion
Equality, diversity, and inclusion are incredibly important to us; we have a culture of belonging. We’re always looking to increase the diversity of our workforce to ensure we can provide the best service possible for everyone. It’s not just about the professional experience you bring – we’re interested in who you are and your potential. If there’s an adjustment to our recruitment process that would help you to be your best, speak to our team and they’ll be happy to help.
Working towards a society free from problem debt
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Good health is essential for people and communities to thrive; it is the foundation of a happy and prosperous society. For more than 150 years it has been our mission to improve and protect the health of the public by addressing the factors that determine it. We are recruiting to this exciting and challenging External Affairs role which brings together policy and communications to strengthen our national voice, increase our impact and support delivery of our mission.
We are looking for a strategic, outward‑facing leader to establish and lead this new role. You will bring political insight, strong judgement and the ability to turn evidence and policy into compelling public‑facing narrative. You will oversee parliamentary engagement, policy adoption, campaigns, media relations and organisational narrative, ensuring RSPH’s voice is clear, confident and influential.
This is a rare opportunity to shape a new function and lead teams working across policy, influencing and communications. You will play a central role in raising RSPH’s profile, supporting adoption of our programmes and positioning us as a leading voice on public health, inequalities and the wider public health workforce.
About you
We welcome candidates from policy, public affairs, communications or corporate affairs backgrounds. You will be able to demonstrate:
- Strong political awareness and experience engaging with Parliamentary and national stakeholders
- Confident communications leadership including media, narrative and external messaging
- The ability to build coalitions and secure influence and adoption
- Clear strategic judgement in complex or fast‑moving contexts
- Experience leading and developing teams
In return we offer:
- 25 days annual leave
- Agile hybrid working structure – 9-day fortnight available
- Pension contributions
- BUPA Cash plan
- Cycle to Work Scheme
- Membership of the Royal Society for Public Health
- Access to public health knowledge and skills training courses and qualifications
- Organisational commitment to supporting the health and wellbeing of our employees
- Welcoming and friendly team of colleagues, and an active Health Champions programme
RSPH values and actively strives to have a diverse and inclusive workforce in a working environment free from discrimination.
Please do let us know if you require any adjustment to allow you to participate in this recruitment process.
RSPH operates an agile working policy with some attendance at our London office according to business need.
Interviews will be held at our offices in Whitechapel on Monday 20 April. If you are unable to attend, please indicate this on your application.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
