Public Affairs Officers Jobs in Central London, Greater London

Age UK is currently looking for an exceptional campaigner with a track record of creating, developing and implementing innovative and successful campaigns. You will have fantastic organisational and project management skills, with an understanding of advocacy and campaigning with online and offline networks.

You will also have the creativity and communication skills to help us achieve real change working with and for older people in line with our strategy and goals. Find out more about the role below and apply to join our collaborative and passionate External Affairs Team.

This role is permanent and offered on a Hybrid / London contract. There is a requirement to be in the office at least once a week . There will also be occasional travel to support at events across the country.

Age UK Internal Job Grade - 7L

Must haves:

* Excellent project management skills.
* Experience of organising events.
* Excellent written and oral communication skills.
* Experience of writing persuasive communications to engage a range of supporters online and offline.
* Understanding of political processes and key decision-making environments, including the UK Parliament.
* Ability to manage a complex workload, set priorities and meet tight deadlines.
* Good interpersonal skills and ability to develop and sustain professional working relationships. Ability to be proactive and flexible, and to identify new opportunities.
* Strong interest in creating change and passion for social justice.

Great to haves:
* Knowledge and experience of campaigning both online and offline.
* Some knowledge of the issues affecting people in later life.
* Experience using Engaging Networks or other campaigning platform.

What we offer in return

• Competitive salary, 26 days annual leave + bank holidays + annual leave purchase scheme
• Excellent pension scheme, life assurance, health cashback plan and EAP
• Car Benefit Scheme, Cycle to Work Scheme and Season Ticket Loan
• Techscheme - buy any tech from Apple or Currys, up to £1000, and spread the cost over 12 months, interest free
• Blue Light Card Scheme
• You Did It Awards - recognition awards from £100-250.

Additional Information

Requirement to be in the office at least once a week and to be available to support meetings and events in London when required. There is a requirement to travel and occasionally to stay overnight (e.g. running events in different parts of the country, party conferences or filming storytellers in different parts of the country); some out of hours working (e.g. occasional evening Parliamentary events).

All CVs will be anonymised by our recruitment system when you apply for a role at Age UK. Please note that our system is unable to anonymise cover letters, and we would therefore ask that to support the work we are doing on making our recruitment selection process fairer and more unbiased, that you remove any personal information from your cover letter/supporting statement, including your name before uploading this. All equalities monitoring information is also anonymised and not shared with the hiring panel. Your name and address will only be known to us once you are invited for an interview.

Age UK is an Equal Opportunities employer and positively encourages applications from suitably qualified and eligible candidates, regardless of age, sex, race, disability, sexual orientation, gender reassignment, religion or belief, marital/civil partnership status, or pregnancy and maternity. We guarantee an interview to disabled candidates who meet the minimum criteria under the Disability Confident Scheme. Please note that on occasion, due to high numbers of applications, Age UK reserves the right to limit the overall number of interviews offered, and therefore, it may not always be practicable or appropriate to interview all disabled people that meet the minimum criteria for the job.

Age UK is committed to safeguarding adults at risk, and children, from abuse and neglect. We expect everyone who works with us to share this commitment.

Early application is encouraged as we will review applications throughout the advertising period and reserve the right to close the advert at any time.

Age UK politely requests no contact from recruitment agencies or media sales. We do not accept speculative CVs from recruitment agencies nor accept the fees associated with them.

Every childhood is worth fighting for. This is our belief. It drives us. 
 
It drives our award-winning Policy and Public Affairs team to shape law, policy and practice to ensure children can grow up free from abuse and neglect.
 
To help us achieve even more for children, we are recruiting six Policy and Public Affairs Officers across the UK. We are looking for: 

• 1 x Policy and Public Affairs Officer based in Northern Ireland
• 1 x Policy and Public Affairs Officer based in Scotland
• 1 x Policy and Public Affairs Officer based in Wales
• 3 x Policy and Public Affairs Officers based in England, with one focused on online safety 

These will be key roles in a high-performing team with an inclusive, supportive and empowering team dynamic. Post-holders will support the delivery of a range of policy-focused projects both within their respective nation policy team, and across our UK-wide team. 
 
The successful candidates will be: 

• committed to our mission to prevent child abuse; 
• able to demonstrate good policy development and policy research skills; 
• a strong communicator and effective network builder; and 
• have experience of influencing policy change in England/Northern Ireland/Scotland/Wales, as the specific role requires. 

 Join us and you'll become part of a team that cares about the work they do and the people they work with. You'll discover opportunities to grow, along with challenges and a shared purpose that'll bring the best out in you. And you'll get to find your own way to make a difference that means more, and that impacts millions of young lives.

The End Violence Against Women Coalition (EVAW) is looking for a Public Affairs Officer to help drive forward our campaigning to end violence against women in all its forms.

The last few years have seen a huge increase in awareness of violence against women and girls, and support for our work. With this crucial human rights issue on the public and political agenda like never before, now is the time to disrupt the status quo and lay the foundations for a different world. 

ABOUT THE ROLE

EVAW’s public affairs officer will help persuade policy makers and stakeholders to prioritise tackling violence against women and girls (VAWG) and develop policy and practice that is effective, inclusive and rooted in equalities and human rights.

Typical tasks for this job might include reviewing and synthesising political speeches and debates, drafting briefings for MPs and other stakeholders and supporting with the organisation of stakeholder events such as parliamentary and party conference meetings.  

Candidates are likely to have some experience in public affairs or policy work on VAWG or a related field connected to social justice, human rights and equalities.  and will be seeking an opportunity to work in a highly impactful, agile and dynamic feminist organisation.

A background in VAWG will of course be an asset, but regardless you’ll need to show us you can keep abreast of key political developments, identify challenges and opportunities to pursue an organisation’s aims, and work to influence key decision-makers in a given field. The applications which stand out in this process will be from those who deeply believe in what we do. 

MORE INFO

We guarantee an invitation to interview for disabled applicants who demonstrate, within their application, sufficient evidence to meet the essential criteria for the job.

Please note we are only able to consider applicants who are able to demonstrate their right to work in the UK. 

EVAW aims to be an anti-racist, values-centring employer. We are seeking out individuals with dedication, aptitude and the ability to deliver meaningful campaigning work. If you have strong knowledge and experience related to any of the significant parts of this job but are not sure that your profile fits in a ‘traditional’ way, please do consider making an application, or get in touch to discuss your background and we will try to give you a steer on the job and what's involved. If you would like to discuss this, please contact us.

TIMELINE

Applications must be received by 11.59 PM on Wednesday, 8th May 2024.

Shortlisted candidates will be notified by w/c 20th May 2024, with interviews will take place in London between 5th and 7th June 2024.

Please note that we cannot provide feedback on all applications, and will only be able to contact shortlisted candidates.

Do you have experience of working in the UK Parliament, in an in-house public affairs team or within a public affairs consultancy? Are you looking to drive change to help tackle one of the UK’s biggest killers?

If so, you may be the Public Affairs Officer we’re looking for!

About the role

Our Policy and Public Affairs team exists to build support amongst key decision makers so that we can fund lifesaving research into heart disease. We develop the British Heart Foundation’s (BHF) position, engaging and influencing stakeholders to help ensure the UK remains a global leader in heart and circulatory research while advocating for the 7.6 million people living with heart and circulatory diseases across the UK.

We have an exciting opportunity for a Public Affairs Officer to join our award winning and high impact team during a very exciting time in politics. You’ll be engaging with Parliamentarians to promote our work at Westminster and in their individual constituencies, while proactively spotting opportunities to build relationships and advance the interests of BHF. You’ll deliver a programme of activity and engagement that contributes to our wider Hearts Need More campaign, which aims to make heart and circulatory diseases a key priority for political parties ahead of the next general election.

Working arrangements

This is a blended role, where your work will be dual located between your home and our London office. 

At BHF we believe in the power of being together, so our colleagues on blended contracts can expect to spend some time in their office, at least one day each week, on average.  The use of our office spaces is driven in part by your role and the activities you need to do. This may vary from time to time, so you will need to work in a flexible way to unlock your best work for our cause. 

Need more help balancing your work and home life? Talk to us about what flexibility is available at the application or interview stage.

About you

With an interest in, and understanding of the external political environment, you'll have a good understanding of the workings of the UK Government and parliamentary procedure. You'll have an understanding of the role of BHF and other health and medical research charities in general, and particularly in the political arena.

You'll have experience of working in the UK Parliament or within a public affairs in-house team or consultancy, and have excellent communication skills. Having previously engaged with political stakeholders, you'll be able to build strong relationships with key internal and external colleagues.

With a proven ability to write clearly, concisely and persuasively for political audiences in a variety of formats, you’ll be able to summarise complex information swiftly and accurately for a variety of audiences. You'll also have strong organisational skills, including experience of coordinating events.

This is an opportunity to make a profound impact for our patients, their families, and our supporters at an exciting time in the electoral cycle.

About us

We value and respect every individual’s unique contribution, celebrate diversity, and make inclusion part of what we do every day. 

Our Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) Strategy, Igniting Change, along with our internal EDI group, Kaleidoscope, and a growing number of employee network groups (our Affinity Groups), help us create an environment where all our colleagues and volunteers can succeed.

Interview process

Interviews will be held virtually via MS Teams during week commencing 20th May 2024

How to apply 

It’s quick and easy to apply for a role at the BHF. Just click on the apply button below. All you’ll need is an up to date CV and a supporting statement, outlining your interest in the role and how you meet the role’s criteria.

Early application is encouraged as we will review applications throughout the advertising period and reserve the right to close the advert early.

As part of our commitment to be an inclusive employer and ensure fairness and consistency in selecting the best candidate for this role, the BHF will use anonymous CV software as part of the application journey.

Should you need any adjustments to the recruitment process, at either application or interview, please contact us.

Position

The Mental Health Foundation is recruiting for a Policy & Public Affairs Officer to support our Policy Team in the London office.

Deadline: Monday 13 May, 9.00 am.

Location: London

Salary: Starting salary £31,350 rising to £35,381 plus £3,285 London Weighting.

Hours: Full-time (35 hours per week). We are currently trialling a 32-hour week until April 2025 on the same pay & conditions.

Contract type: Permanent

This exciting Policy & Public Affairs Officer role will lead on developing and influencing specific policy priorities identified by the Foundation as areas where change is most needed to improve the population’s mental health. Initially, the policy area of focus for this role will be the mental health of asylum seekers and refugees.

What does the role involve?

• Maintain up-to-date knowledge of policy and legislative developments affecting public mental health and particular priority policy topics for the Foundation.
• Carry out background research, developing influencing plans, responding to government consultations and providing briefings for politicians and other external stakeholders.
• Ensure the Foundation’s stakeholders, including people with lived experience of mental ill health, are involved in development of policy work and strategy.

Requirements

What skills, knowledge and experience are we looking for?

• In-depth knowledge of policy development systems and processes in the UK.
• Excellent writing skills, including the ability to write precisely and quickly for a range of audiences.
• Ability to critically analyse complex legislative, policy and research documents.
• Ability to work within and across teams to deliver results. This includes our policy, research, communications, fundraising and programmes teams.

Safeguarding is Everyone’s business: the Mental Health Foundation is committed to safeguarding and promoting the wellbeing of all its beneficiaries, those who surround them, its staff, volunteers, and anyone else who comes into contact with its services and expects all trustees, staff, and volunteers to share this commitment. The successful applicant will be subject to appropriate vetting procedures (proof of eligibility to work in the UK, proof of residency and satisfactory employment screening, including a Disclosure check and two most recent references) along with 3-year renewals of Disclosure checks. We are unable to provide sponsorship for this post; you must be able to demonstrate your eligibility to work in the UK.

Other information

If you think your skills match and you’d like to be part of a dynamic and growing organisation, please complete and submit your application below. Please ensure you attach an up to date CV and statement of suitability answering all points of the person specification. Applications will close at 9.00 am on Monday 13 May and we are unable to accept late applications. Interviews are planned for the 23 and 24 May. There will be a short written test on the day of the interview.

We believe our people should represent the communities, organisations and individuals we work with. Diversity and inclusion is a strategic priority for us as an employer and mental health charity, and we are proud to be signatories of the Business in the Community Race at Work Charter and the Disability Confident Committed Scheme. Applications from under-represented sections of the community are actively encouraged.

If you have a disability, require any additional support or have any questions regarding the role, please contact us. We make reasonable adjustments throughout the recruitment process and during employment. Disabled candidates who meet all the essential person specification criteria will be offered an interview. Therefore, please do ensure you tick the relevant box on the application form and clearly indicate in your application/covering letter if you consider yourself to meet the requirements of the Equality Act 2010/Disability Discrimination Act 1995.

We are currently operating mostly digital recruitment (including interviews via video conferencing). We have moved to a hybrid working model of a minimum of 2 days per week in the office and the rest working from home.

We look forward to hearing from you!

Job Title: Senior Policy and Public Affairs Officer

Reports to: Policy Manager

Line reports: None

Contract terms: Full time

Salary: £36,065-£37,013

Location: London-based, with hybrid working

The Royal College of Ophthalmologists is a membership organisation and the voice of the profession, with over 4,000 members in the UK and overseas. Our role is to champion the specialty, set standards of training and practice, and influence change to make a difference to the lives of patients with eye conditions.

Job purpose

Part of the Communications and Engagement department, the Senior Policy and Public Affairs Officer is responsible for developing and implementing strategic policy initiatives and engaging with key stakeholders to advance our policy priorities across the four UK nations. Working with colleagues, members and external stakeholders, you will deliver high quality analysis and research, produce evidence-based policy positions and outputs, and employ effective public affairs approaches to influence change on behalf of our members.

Main responsibilities

Strategic planning and reporting

• Contribute to developing, implementing and evaluating policy and public affairs (PPA) strategies, campaigns and plans aligned to member priorities and our wider strategic aims.
• Lead and manage the delivery of specific PPA workstreams, working in partnership with other organisations as needed.
• Monitor and report on performance against organisational and departmental objectives.

Policy development

• Monitor and analyse the external policy, political and parliamentary landscape across the four UK nations to identify influencing opportunities and relevant developments – summarising these for internal audiences.
• Contribute to the design and analysis of member surveys, drafting reports and presenting findings to inform the College’s policy agenda.
• Work with colleagues to research and draft evidence-based policy positions, consultation responses and briefings for politicians, civil servants, NHS and other key decision makers.
• Maintain an accurate evidence library of data and information to support the development of policy.
• Provide policy-related support to relevant committees to enable their effective contribution to the College’s work, including ensuring agreed actions are implemented.

Public affairs

• Build new and strengthen existing relationships with policymakers, government officials, clinicians and other relevant stakeholders across the four UK nations to advance the College’s policy objectives and maintain a thought leadership position within the eye health sector.
• Draft briefings and presentations to support events and senior-level meetings with politicians, civil servants, NHS and other key decision makers.
• Arrange and represent (as appropriate) the College at events, conferences and external stakeholder meetings.
• Build and maintain the College’s stakeholder database, tracking progress and advising on how to engage with different stakeholders.

Communications

• Work closely with the communications team to support the delivery of communications strategies and plans, ensuring the accuracy of policy information contained in College outputs and contributing to our press activities, member magazine, newsletters and website as required.
• Draft, implement and evaluate the impact of strategic engagement plans for policy publications.
• Support the communication of College policy positions internally, including by proposing lines to take for inclusion in our messaging house and assisting in briefing colleagues and volunteers – including the Chief Executive and President – on these.

To undertake other duties as required

• Undertake any other reasonable duties as required by the College.
• Working outside normal hours and/or overnight stays may be necessary to support the delivery of key organisational events.

Inclusion and diversity statement 

The College is committed to encouraging inclusion, equity and diversity among our staff, and eliminating unlawful discrimination, harassment and victimisation by complying with the Equality Act 2010. We want a working environment where individual differences and the contributions of all staff are recognised and valued. To do this, we will proactively tackle discrimination and disadvantage and ensure that no individual or group is directly or indirectly discriminated against for any reason. We expect all employees to champion and live our values through their work at every opportunity.  

Our values 

Inclusion

• actively welcoming a diversity of experiences and perspectives
• everyone being respected and encouraged to participate regardless of their background or role

Integrity

• being open and honest, demonstrating accountability in all its work
• evidenced-based and transparent decision-making, utilising a range of data, information, expertise and experience

Innovation

• creating novel opportunities to advance and deliver on its aims, anticipating changing circumstances
• actively welcoming fresh ideas and approaches
• fostering a climate of ambition and excellence drawing on expertise from across the College’s communities

Improvement

• being a learning organisation, reflecting on both successes and mistakes
• continuous and sustainable development across all its activities

Person specification

 Knowledge, qualifications and experience

• University degree or professional qualification in a relevant field such as public policy, political science, public health or similar
• At least three years’ experience of working in a policy, public affairs or advocacy role, preferably within the healthcare sector or a membership organisation
• Experience of devising developing, implementing and evaluating policy/public affairs strategies and/or campaigns
• Experience managing projects and initiatives from conception to implementation
• Experience of conducting policy-relevant research and developing evidence-based policy positions and consultation responses
• Experience of drafting high-quality, accessible briefings, reports, and other written materials for diverse audiences, including policymakers, healthcare professionals, and the public
• Experience of engaging with government agencies, policymakers, and other stakeholders to influence policy outcomes
• Working knowledge of IT systems – including Microsoft Office and CRMs

 Skills and abilities

• Strong strategic planning, prioritisation and organisational skills
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to convey complex ideas and nuanced points clearly and persuasively
• Excellent analytical skills with the ability to research, analyse, and interpret complex qualitative and quantitative data to inform policy positions and advocacy efforts
• Proven ability to critically evaluate policy proposals, legislation and other publications and assess their potential implications for the College and our members
• Strong interpersonal skills and a demonstrated ability to build and maintain positive relationships with internal and external stakeholders, including government officials
• Ability to generate new ideas, take initiative and problem solve
• Adaptability and an ability to work well under pressure and manage often conflicting demands within tight timeframes

Personal qualities (attributes)

• Commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion and understanding of how this applies to own area of work
• Commitment to own continuing professional development
• Demonstrates a positive ‘can do’ attitude

Staff benefits

We offer a friendly and supportive working environment and make sure our employees are well looked after with a great benefits package, which includes:

Work life balance and family friendly benefits

• Hybrid working
• 25 days of annual leave, increasing to 30 days with length of service (plus bank holidays and office closure between Christmas and New Year)
• One day of paid leave to move house
• Enhanced parental leave

Planning for your future

• Employer pension contributions up to a maximum of 12%
• Life assurance of 4x of base salary

Career development

• All staff are offered opportunities for learning and development, in addition to a comprehensive e-learning package
• Study loans

Travel

• Season ticket loan
• Cycle to work scheme

Wellbeing

• Summer Fridays (staff can finish 90 minutes early from 17th July – 31st August)
• Enhanced Employee Assistance Programme (with access to free counselling sessions)
• Health Cash Plan

How to apply

Please submit your CV (maximum two pages) and a covering letter (maximum one page). The cover letter must explain what makes you suitable for the role. Please use the job description for reference.

Interviews will be held at our office in Euston, the week commencing 3 June 2024. Please indicate if you are likely to need any reasonable adjustments to successfully complete this interview.

Applicants must already have the right to work within the UK without restriction. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.

The closing date for applications is 27 May 2024.

Are you passionate about making a difference? Do you thrive in a dynamic environment where your voice can shape policy and bring about change? Join our team at the Motor Neurone Disease (MND) Association as a Senior Public Affairs Adviser: Westminster. This role is pivotal in ensuring everyone impacted by MND receives the care and support they deserve.

You'll work closely with the Public Affairs Manager to drive forward our public affairs priorities and pro-actively identify opportunities to influence party political debates, legislation and select committees in relation to the Association's vital work. From drafting impactful briefings to building relationships with decision-makers, you'll be at the forefront of our advocacy efforts.

Ensuring a coordinated approach to our parliamentary work at Westminster and locally, your responsibilities include supporting parliamentary inquiries, coordinating our presence at political conferences. You will identify and develop effective links with key parliamentarians, influencers, and decision makers whose remit may impact the sphere of our work, including, senior civil servants.

Additionally, you'll help empower our campaigning volunteers and regional staff to engage with local decision-makers effectively. Your role will also contribute to shaping our strategies and plans, ensuring that our advocacy efforts remain impactful and aligned with our purpose, mission and 5 promises.

Located in London, with flexibility for hybrid working, this role offers an exciting opportunity to drive positive change in the lives of those affected by MND.

If you're ready to use your expertise to make a real difference, we want to hear from you. Join us to drive positive change for people living with and affected by MND.

Hybrid Working Expectations: Flexibility to attend the London office when required to meet business needs.

What are we looking for?

A thorough understanding of parliamentary processes and procedures, with previous experience in public affairs within a voluntary organisation.

Experience of working with Parliamentarians. You should also demonstrate proficiency in supporting volunteers and coordinating events.

Excellent communication skills are paramount, allowing you to interact and influence with stakeholders and diverse audiences across all levels including politicians and volunteers. As a team player and networker, you'll thrive in collaborative environments.

Additionally, strong IT skills, including database management and use of social media, is vital.

Flexibility for occasional evening and weekend work, as well as travel to external meetings, is required.

For full role responsibilities please view the job description located within the Recruitment Pack.

Our Benefits

• 28 days holiday, rising to 33 days after 5 years' service, plus Bank Holidays
• Access to UK Healthcare which includes reimbursement for dental appointments, eyecare, Health & Wellbeing screening and therapies
• Access to a 24/7 phone and video GP Service
• Life assurance
• Confidential counselling helplines
• Salary sacrifice schemes to include:
• Cycle to work
• Buy and sell annual leave
• BenefitHub which offers lifestyle discounts and offers on everyday shopping
• Enhanced pension scheme
• Opportunities for training and personal development
• Hybrid working

How to apply

Please submit a CV and supporting statement. Your supporting statement should be no longer than one side of A4 and demonstrate how you meet the following areas of the role.

• A thorough understanding of parliamentary processes and procedures.
• Demonstrable public affairs experience within a voluntary organisation.
• Experience of working with Parliamentarians.

Where experience is asked for, please give one example showing what you did and what it achieved. Where we require evidence of ability, please explain either how you would approach that particular competence or give an example to support your suitability.

About Us

Our vision is a world free from MND. Our mission is to improve care and support for people with MND, their families and carers. We fund and promote research that leads to new understanding and treatments and brings us closer to a cure for MND. The Association also campaigns and raises awareness so the needs of people with MND, and everyone who cares for them, are recognised, and addressed by wider society.

We are committed to equality and value diversity. We are working hard to remove perceived and actual barriers to participation for people with and affected by MND, current and future staff, volunteers, and stakeholders.

We guarantee interviews for disabled applicants that meet the requirements of the role as part of our commitment to the Disability Confident Scheme. Reasonable adjustments can be made as required.

Important Information

Adverts may be closed before the deadline once sufficient applications are received. To avoid disappointment, please apply early.

We request that recruitment agencies do not contact us in relation to this role.

Head of Campaigns and Public Affairs (maternity cover)

· Maternity cover

· Salary £58,807 per annum

· Full time (37.5 hours)

· Flexible working options will be supported.

· Central London Office and Hybrid working

We offer a pension scheme with employer contribution up to 10%, in addition you’ll receive 28 days holiday plus bank holidays, 24-hour access to a comprehensive employee assistance programme, cycle to work scheme and season ticket loan scheme and other benefits.

About the role

We are looking for a confident, senior Public Affairs and Campaigns professional to lead a programme of relationship building and to develop and deliver parliamentary and campaign strategies to bring about changes in policy, practice, and attitudes across our wide range of target audiences.

The Head of Public Affairs and Campaigns will be crucial in helping us to strategically build relationships with advocates and champions for our work in Westminster and Whitehall, across key industry bodies, sectors and networks and at a local and national level. This includes overseeing our programme of events and working with colleagues across the organisation to develop and deliver high-quality campaigns that effectively build support for the changes we want to see.

This is a hands-on role that will work seamlessly with the Head of Communications and colleagues across the wider organisation to plan and deliver a powerful, coherent, and integrated communications and influencing function. The successful candidate will be proactive and tenacious in horizon-scanning and seeking out opportunities where we can most effectively influence the work of others. You will also be responsible for developing and co-ordinating policy positions and approaches that are attractive and actionable and achieve buy-in and support from others.

You will line manage three individuals and have dotted line oversight of the work of Communications & Campaigns Officers in our Action Areas, as well as general responsibility and oversight – along with the Head of Communications – for the work of the wider Communications Team and influencing activity across the organisation more broadly.

You will be a proven collaborator who is able to demonstrate a strong commitment to Ageing Better’s vision, mission and values.

About you

• You’re a senior public affairs and campaigns practitioner with a strong track record of influencing change in previous roles
• You will have excellent knowledge of UK Government and Parliament, how policy change happens and how to develop effective advocacy strategies to achieve change.
• You’re highly motivated and a team player, able to take the lead in managing issues and external relationships, while providing briefings and support to senior colleagues on others.

About us

The Centre for Ageing Better is a charitable foundation funded by The National Lottery Community Fund and part of the government’s What Works Network

Everyone has the right to a good life as they get older and our whole society benefits when people are able to age well. But far too many people face huge barriers, and as a result are living in bad housing, dealing with poverty and poor health and made to feel invisible in their communities and society.

The Centre for Ageing Better is pioneering ways to make ageing better a reality for everyone. Its key areas of work include challenging ageism and building a nationwide Age-friendly Movement, creating Age-friendly Employment and Age-friendly Homes.

We are striving to create an organisation that reflects our society and the communities we serve. A workplace where everyone feels empowered and where diversity of background and thought is celebrated. We know there is more work to be done and are committed to continuing to improve our practice around Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion.

We very much welcome applications from minority groups and those underrepresented in our workforce. This especially includes people from Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic backgrounds, LGBT+ people, and Disabled people.

We are a Positive Action employer, therefore in recruitment where two candidates are ‘as qualified as’ each other, we will favour a candidate from any group identified as currently underrepresented in our team based on protected characteristics as outlined in the Equality Act 2010.

The closing date for this role is 11:59pm on 15th May, with in- person interviews to take place during week commencing 27 May.

Role Summary

As the Director of Research and Public Affairs you lead a team working across the full range of research work (including commissioning, grant-making and in-house research) and public affairs work (including policy analysis, advocacy work and mobilising our activists). You also contribute to the charity’s strategies, leadership and governance as a member of the Executive Team. Ultimately, your role is to generate new knowledge; and communicate knowledge, ideas and emotions to change hearts and minds, creating tangible reductions in alcohol harm across the UK.

Key Tasks and Responsibilities

Leadership, strategy & planning

1. Lead the research and public affairs functions at Alcohol Change UK.

2. Produce and deliver plans across our research and public affairs work programmes that are ambitious for change (impact), realistic given our resources, and consistent with our strategy, our other work programmes, and our values.

3. Set budgets, tightly control costs and identify opportunities for making savings, growing income and making the case for investment.

4. Appropriately monitor and evaluate our research and public affairs work with a view to knowing, growing and showing the impact we make.

Research

5. Work closely with the CEO, Policy and Research Manager, R&P sub-committee and Wales Office to determine and oversee the charity’s programme of commissioned research, research grants, and in-house research.

6. Ensure that all research is designed with impact-in-mind and, once complete, that it delivers on that impact through active and ongoing communication of the findings to the right audiences with the right messages through the right channels.

7. Lead the research function to be the central hub for the charity on the topic of alcohol harm and its solutions, staying on top of new research.

8. Influence the research spending of other agencies (e.g. NIHR) with a view to maximising funding into alcohol research in general.

Public Affairs

9. Lead and manage the charity’s public affairs activity, deploying the CEO, Research & Policy Officer and other staff as a team.

10.  Lead our work with external alliances, such as the Alcohol Health Alliance and the Alcohol and Families Alliance, and on the APPG on Alcohol Harm.

11.  Develop excellent relationships with Parliamentarians, civil servants, charities and other important institutional actors in our field.

12.  Build Campaigner journeys for our engagement audience to best mobilise them to help us with our influencing work.

13.  Lead on the commissioning and management of any external public affairs agencies, parliamentary monitoring services and similar suppliers.

14.  Ensure our policy positions are kept up-to-date, based on emerging evidence and contemporary thinking, and consistent with our principles.

15.  Work closely with the Director of Engagement and Fundraising to effectively mobilise and deploy our activists, Community Champions and other supporters so they (i) make a difference, (ii) become better informed over time, and (iii) remain motivated to campaign for our cause.

16.  Work closely with the Director of Marketing and Communications to influence all forms of media to better support our desired outcomes.

Team Leadership and Management

17.  Lead and manage the research and public affairs team(s), ensuring excellent line management.

18.  Lead the process of recruiting and inducting new team members, as appropriate.

19.  Proactively develop your own skills and experience as well as those of staff within your team.

Cross-organisational Role

20.  Act as a spokesperson for the charity at high profile events and across media, including radio and TV.

21.  Be an active and positive member of the charity’s Executive Team.

22.  Work with colleagues across the charity to support their work and to act as ‘one team’.

23.  Work particularly closely with colleagues in the Wales office, optimising opportunities for joint working.

24.  Contribute actively and positively to the development of charity-wide strategies and activity.

Other Duties

25.  Continually develop your knowledge of alcohol harm and solutions to it.

26.  Act as a positive ambassador for Alcohol Change UK at all times.

27.  Know, embrace and actively uphold the values of Alcohol Change UK at all times.

Other reasonable duties at the request of the CEO.

England’s National Parks represent our finest landscapes, famed for their spectacular beauty, varied wildlife and rich cultural heritage. National Parks are critical to supporting local communities, providing access to green spaces for the nation, and helping to tackle the dual challenges of climate change and declining biodiversity.

National Parks England’s purpose is to be the collective voice for English National Park Authorities, helping us to achieve our purposes through influencing policy.

The Policy and Public Affairs Manager will be an experienced public affairs professional with a passion for nature and understanding of National Parks. 

The successful applicant will join our senior management team, managing the Policy and Public Affairs team and work with the Executive Director  to help develop and drive the NPE policy and public affairs strategy, working closely with stakeholders in our member National Parks and the wider Protected Landscapes family.

About the role

We have an exciting opportunity for a Policy Manager to join our team. This position is based in the Policy and Public Affairs (PPA) team and reports to the Director of PPA. As part of the External Affairs directorate, we aim to radically improve healthcare for women and girls by influencing positive change within UK Governments.

This is a great opportunity to be part of a small but highly impactful team, taking the lead on issues that are central to the wellbeing of women and girls. You will be responsible for the delivery of the RCOG’s policy strategy and operational plan, working closely with colleagues in PPA, Communications and other teams across the College. You will ensure that the RCOG is at the forefront of policy debates which affect women’s health, and you will work collaboratively with a variety of stakeholders, including women and the RCOG membership, to develop policy solutions to improve the health of women and girls.

Responsibilities:

• Lead on the development of evidence-based policies on women’s health issues and strategic College priorities.

• Provide expert advice to the RCOG President, Officers, Chief Executive and senior managers  on political and policy matters.

• Build and maintain relationships with key stakeholders, including policy makers healthcare professionals, women and the wider public.

• Line manage the Policy and Public Affairs Officer.

About you

This position is well-suited to a proactive and strategic individual, who can take a collaborative approach to their work and is committed to making a real difference to the health of women and girls. If you are passionate about women's health and have a well-developed understanding of policy development in the healthcare sector, we would be excited to hear from you.

Requirements

• Demonstrable experience as a policy professional providing advice and influencing senior stakeholders

• Proven track record of writing policy briefings, reports and presenting findings to political and policy audiences

• Familiarity with health policy and a comprehensive understanding of NHS structures, policy and strategy

• Skilled in addressing controversial/ethical issues sensitively

Our culture and benefits

As a key member of the team, you will be located in our offices in London Bridge. We offer a friendly, values led working culture with an excellent benefits package that includes:

• Agile and flexible working

• 25 days annual leave, plus bank holidays and office closure from 25 December to 1 January

• Up to 10% employer pension contribution after probation

• Enhanced occupational Maternity, Adoption, and Shared Parental leave policies

• Interest-free bike, season ticket and technology loans after probation

• Tailored Learning and Development and study leave

• Affinity staff networks

• Free lunch (onsite only)

• Employee Support Service counselling

• Life Assurance Scheme

• Lifestyle discounts

For a full list of the benefits we offer, please visit our careers site.

How to apply

• Click on Apply to be taken to our recruitment platform, Applied or visit our careers website to download the full Job pack.

• Closing date: 10.00am on Monday 27 May 2024

We believe that diverse teams will deliver the best outcomes for women's healthcare and we strive to be an inclusive employer. We are therefore looking for candidates whose backgrounds, experience and identity enhance the diversity of our existing team. We are particularly encouraging applications from underrepresented groups at the College such as those from black, Asian and minority ethnic backgrounds and those with a disability. To find out more, please see our Diversity Policy and Equal Opportunities Policy.

We are only accepting applicants with a right to work in the UK; we are unable to sponsor people requiring a work visa.

About us

The RCOG is a professional membership association dedicated to improving women’s health care across the world. We do this by setting standards for clinical practice, providing doctors with training and lifelong learning, and working with partners to advocate for women’s health and health care across their life course. We are a global leader in this specialist area, supporting 16,000 members in the UK and internationally.

We are a values-led organisation placing high standards, innovation, openness, inclusiveness and trust at the centre of all we do.

We are delighted to announce an exceptional opportunity to join the RSA (Royal Society for the Encouragement of Arts, Manufactures and Commerce) as a Media and Public Affairs Officer!

 About the RSA: Founded in 1754, the RSA is a prestigious institution with a rich history of championing innovative ideas, driving societal change, and encouraging creative thinking across arts, manufacturing, and commerce. Their mission is to enrich society through ideas and action, making a lasting impact on communities and shaping a brighter future for all.

About the Role: As a Media and Public Affairs Officer, you will play a pivotal role in communicating the RSA's impactful work to a diverse network of stakeholders, including the media. You will lead integrated communications campaigns, manage media relations, and contribute to their mission of influence and impact.

Key Responsibilities include:

• Lead integrated communications campaigns promoting the RSA's nationwide programmes, policy interventions, and public events.
• Build and maintain a strong media profile for the RSA, targeting key audiences including policymakers, businesses, academia, and the wider public.
• Secure media coverage and exposure across various publications and platforms.
• Cultivate new press and public affairs contacts to further organisational objectives.
• Collaborate with internal teams to ensure consistent messaging and content delivery.
• Write engaging and newsworthy content for various platforms, including the RSA Journal

Person Specification:

• Experience in media relations, public affairs, journalism, or policy.
• Excellent writing, digital, and analytical skills.
• Ability to work autonomously in a fast-paced environment.

What's on Offer:

• A collaborative and dynamic work environment.
• Opportunities for professional growth and development.
• Competitive salary of £32,000 per annum and benefits package.
• Flexible working arrangements, 3 days a week in their Central London office.

If you are a proactive and innovative communicator passionate about making a difference, we want to hear from you!

To be considered for this position please apply with your CV as soon as possible, regrettably please note we may not be able to reply to each and every application.

We are committed to diverse and inclusive recruitment practises that ensure equal opportunity for everyone, regardless of race, sexual orientation, mental or physical disability, age or gender. We encourage applications from all backgrounds and will happily make reasonable adjustments to always ensure a fair process.

Reports to: Policy and Research Manager

Direct reports: None

Location:Our well-equipped office is in Kings Cross, London, WC1X 9NW. We encourage staff to work where they wish, at home or in the office, within the limits of the role and taking into account personal circumstances. This role will generally be expected to attend the office at least once a week and will have meetings at other locations in London fairly frequently.

Status:Permanent

Hours:Full-time

Salary:£31,437 to £34,659; plus benefits

Role Summary

This position provides key support for the policy and research functions of the charity, in addition to collaborating on campaigns and public affairs work. You will be responsible for carrying out primary research relevant to the charity’s policy and research functions. You’ll be monitoring and collating new policy and research materials and contributing to public communications including report-writing, blog posts and social media activity. You’ll be providing input into strategic planning regarding policy and research activities. You’ll connect with researchers and policy people from other charities and from universities. Finally, you’ll be attending conferences and meetings on behalf of the charity.

Key Tasks and Responsibilities

Policy

• Support the P&RM, DR&PA and CEO in responding to public consultations, advising policymakers and working with national policy and research bodies as appropriate.

• Represent the charity in meetings with policy partners where appropriate.

• Attend policy and research conferences on behalf of the charity, providing feedback to the team on key learning and opportunities that arise.

• Work with the SC&PA and DR&PA to draw up influencing strategies to target key stakeholders on policy priorities.

• Monitor external research that helps our policy work and opportunities for collaboration.

• Work with the SC&PA  to engage campaigners in our policy work.

Research

• Work with the P&RM to carry out research activities relevant to the policy and research functions of the charity; including collating and analysing data, and co-authoring reports for both internal and public purposes.

• Work with the P&RM and the Communications and Marketing teams to produce engaging and accessible communication of research findings for a range of audiences. 

• Monitor and collate new policy and research materials, including research reports, policy documents and media activity. Work with the P&RM to produce internal reports where appropriate and to ensure the charity’s activities reflect and respond to the wider policy and research environment.

• Work with the P&RM on external research projects funded by the charity, including support with assessing the quality of bids by external researchers. 

Across both areas

• Produce social media communications where relevant to policy and research. Work with colleagues across the Research and Public Affairs and Communications and Marketing teams to develop strategies for maximising impact, especially in digital communications.

• Contribute to strategic planning by contributing to staff meetings, producing supporting materials and providing feedback on public affairs.

The postholder will also be expected to:

• attend training courses and develop skills as required, sharing learning with other staff as relevant

• in unusual circumstances, work weekend and / or evening hours, for which time in lieu will be given

• undertake other reasonable work as requested by the P&RM.

Events Officer

· Maternity cover

· Salary £36,189 per annum

· Full time (37.5 hours per week) minimum 4 days a week considered

· Flexible working options will be supported

· Central London Office and Hybrid working

We offer a pension scheme with employer contribution up to 10%, in addition you’ll receive 28 days holiday plus bank holidays, 24-hour access to a comprehensive employee assistance programme, cycle to work scheme and season ticket loan scheme and other benefits.

About the role

The Events Officer plays a key role in our highly effective communications team, leading on the delivery of an impactful programme of events – both online and in person. The role works with teams from across the organisation to plan, deliver and promote all types of events, including workshops, roundtables, conferences, webinars, receptions and other types of online and in person events.

Events are an important way for Ageing Better to influence priority audiences, including businesses and local and national government, and the postholder will advise teams on how events can best reach these audiences, encourage engagement and lead to lasting relationships.

This role sits within the Communications team, and the postholder will be responsible for drafting comms content, such as blogs and social media posts, particularly in relation to event promotion.

About you

You are highly organised, with excellent prioritisation and project management skills, enabling you to juggle multiple projects simultaneously. You have good attention to detail and enjoy planning, solving logistical problems and delivering events to a tight budget.

You are a good communicator and are comfortable working in close partnership with colleagues and dealing with a wide range of people.

You will have experience of organising events, including technical experience of managing online events and streaming.

About us

The Centre for Ageing Better is a charitable foundation funded by The National Lottery Community Fund and part of the government’s What Works Network

Everyone has the right to a good life as they get older and our whole society benefits when people are able to age well. But far too many people face huge barriers, and as a result are living in bad housing, dealing with poverty and poor health and made to feel invisible in their communities and society.

The Centre for Ageing Better is pioneering ways to make ageing better a reality for everyone. Its key areas of work include challenging ageism and building a nationwide Age-friendly Movement, creating Age-friendly Employment and Age-friendly Homes.

We are striving to create an organisation that reflects our society and the communities we serve. A workplace where everyone feels empowered and where diversity of background and thought is celebrated. We know there is more work to be done and are committed to continuing to improve our practice around Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion.

We very much welcome applications from minority groups and those underrepresented in our workforce. This especially includes people from Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic backgrounds, LGBT+ people, and Disabled people.

We are a Positive Action employer, therefore in recruitment where two candidates are ‘as qualified as’ each other, we will favour a candidate from any group identified as currently underrepresented in our team based on protected characteristics as outlined in the Equality Act 2010.

The closing date for this role is 11:59pm on Sunday 12th May, with in- person interviews to take place during week commencing 20th May.