Public policy jobs

The Policy and Campaigns Officer will develop policy positions and campaigns that will help ensure that the needs, rights and priorities of those living with DMD are understood and acted on by decision makers, policy makers, parliament and government. The Officer will work closely with colleagues in the Policy and Communications team to support a cohesive and impactful approach to policy, engagement and communications.

Job Description

• To ensure that the charity’s policy and campaigning work is firmly grounded in the views and experiences of the DMD community and to ensure that they are consulted and involved in the development (and delivery where appropriate) of Duchenne UK’s policy positions and campaigns.
• To maximise the benefits of our existing relationships with civil servants, parliamentarians, policy makers, relevant organisations (such as NICE) and charity sector professionals and to create new relationships which help us to achieve our aims.
• To organise events and parliamentary activity working with parliamentary supporters and the DMD community.
• To devise low-budget campaigns aimed at creating positive change in policy, practice or attitudes that will improve the lives and outcomes of those living with DMD. 
• To create campaign assets such as digital and social media content in collaboration with the communications team.
• To draft consultation responses, policy positions and occasional short reports summarising the findings of research we have conducted or commissioned.
• To monitor relevant government proposals and initiatives, identifying those likely to have a major impact on the lives of those living with DMD, and to seek to influence their development.
• To stay abreast of relevant academic research, build relationships with key academics and identify opportunities for collaboration.

Person Specification

Essential experience:

• Experience of working in a policy and/or campaigning role.
• Experience of writing for a range of audiences and using different channels to produce convincing, clear and succinct content across a range of platforms such as blogs, web and print.
• Experience of working with civil servants and parliamentarians.
• Experience of using digital and social media for influencing and campaigning purposes.

Desirable experience:

• Project management experience including initiating, planning, implementing and evaluating campaigns and organising events.
• Experience working in health and social care space, with pharmaceutical industry and/or a highly regulated industry and engaging with regulators.

Essential knowledge:

• Working knowledge of the healthcare system, regulatory framework and the social model of disability. 
• Knowledge of how policy and legislation are developed in Westminster and Whitehall.
• Knowledge of campaigning techniques.

Essential skills and attributes:

• Highly motivated with a passion for improving the life outcomes of people living with DMD.
• Excellent interpersonal skills with people of all ages and backgrounds. 
• Ability to draw out the most salient features of complex issues and debates.
• Ability to analyse large amounts of information and produce easy to digest summaries and position statements.
• Ability to work on own initiative.
• Ability to build excellent working relationships both internally and externally.
• Good organisational and workload management skills.
• Proficient with all main Microsoft Office packages.

Benefits

• 25 days of annual leave + 8 days of public holidays (both pro rata)
• 3 days of office closure between Christmas and New Year
• Summer Fridays – half days on Fridays in July and August (pro rata)
• Flexible working policy
• Hybrid working
• Standard Employer Pensions contributions after 3 months
• Team wellness day and team away day
• Training and development opportunities

Terms and conditions

The appointment is subject to satisfactory references and an initial six-month period of probation, during which performance will be regularly reviewed.

The applicant must have the right to work in the UK and provide relevant ‘right to work’ documentation.

Relevant training will be provided during induction as well as opportunities to develop your career through experience of different aspects of the charity’s work and working with colleagues on new initiatives.

The organisation’s hybrid working policy is at the discretion of the line-manager during the first three months of employment, to support the induction process.

The Vacancies

We are seeking to appoint two business registrants and one dispensing optician to our Advisory Panel Companies Committee.

About the GOC

We are the regulator for the optical professions in the UK. Our purpose is to protect the public by promoting high standards of education, performance, and conduct.

About the Advisory Panel
The Advisory Panel is a meeting of the four Council’s committees (Companies, Education, Registration, and Standards) in plenary session. They are established by statute for the purpose of giving advice and assistance to Council (whether or not in response to a request from them) on:

• matters relating to business registrants other than matters required by the Opticians Act to be referred to the Investigation Committee, the Registration Appeals, Committee or the Fitness to Practise Committee; 

• matters relating to optical training, education, and assessment; 

• matters relating to registration, other than matters required by the Opticians Act to be considered by the Registration Appeals Committee; and 

• matters relating to the standards of conduct and performance expected of registrants or those seeking admission to the register. 

Time Commitment and Remuneration 

This role is part time with a commitment of approximately 2-3 days per year, including time spent preparing for meetings.  Meetings will usually take place via MS Teams but may on occasion be held at the GOC Offices in London or other suitable venues.

A daily fee of £319 will be paid. This is in line with our member fees policy and member fee schedule.  This is taxable and subject to Class 1 National Insurance (NI) contributions. It is not pensionable.

Members can claim expenses for travel and subsistence costs incurred on Council business as set out in our expenses policy.

How to apply 

Please apply with the following: 

• your CV outlining your employment history, any relevant voluntary work, public service, or other experience; together with any relevant professional, academic, or vocational qualifications (please keep this to two sides of A4); 

• the application form (attcahed below), stating how your experience matches the essential criteria for the vacancy you are applying for; and 

• an EDI monitoring form (link can be found in the candidate pack below). 

Please email your completed application quoting reference GOC05/25 to appointment@optical .org.

We would welcome applications from individuals who are disabled and from diverse ethnic backgrounds, as these are currently under-represented on our Council and committees. 

For more information please see the attached candidate information pack.

APPLICATION DEADLINE: midnight Sunday 09 November 2025.

Online interviews will be held the week commencing 12 January 2026.

We strive to be as diverse as the public we protect and welcome applications from everyone, regardless of age, disability, gender reassignment, race, religion or belief, ethnicity, sex, sexual orientation, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy, maternity, and geographical locations outside of London.

PLEASE NOTE: We are actively interviewing. We are scheduling interviews as applications come in.  We are ready to hire as soon as we find the right person.  Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!

Key Responsibilities:
 

• Develop and implement public affairs, policy, advocacy, and campaigning strategies.
• Manage and mentor a small team. 
• Build relationships with policymakers, MPs, and key stakeholders.
• Plan and deliver events, workshops, and stakeholder meetings.
• Identify opportunities to strengthen evidence through research, collaborations, and partnerships.
• Support funding applications, partnership development, and income generation.
• Monitor public affairs and policy developments and advise on strategic opportunities.

Person Specification:
 

• Proven experience in Public Affairs, policy, advocacy, and campaigning.
• Experience managing staff or consultants.
• Event management and income generation experience desirable.
• Strong partnership, research, and strategic planning skills.
• Excellent communication and influencing skills.
• Commitment to equality, social justice, and Romani (Gypsy), Roma and Irish communities.

We encourage applicants from Romani (Gypsy), Roma and Irish Travellers with the relevant skills to apply 
 

Looking for an immediate start.

Are you ready to make a real difference for people living with MND and their families in Wales?

We have an exciting 12-month Fixed Term Contract opportunity for a Senior Policy and Public Affairs Adviser to shape policy, influence decision-makers, and strengthen the MND Association’s voice across Wales. You will work with colleagues, partners and volunteers to improve services and support for people with MND, their carers, and families.

Key Responsibilities:

• Work with the Public Affairs Manager, and Wales Delivery Team to deliver the MND Association’s influencing, campaigning and lobbying priorities across Wales
• Analyse public policy and develop well-informed policy positions and recommendations
• Communicate our position on policy issues to the Senedd, Cross Party Groups and Government
• Prepare and manage the production of policy papers, briefings, submissions, speeches and reports
• Build and manage strong relationships with key decision-makers, policymakers and partners
• Create opportunities to influence change at Senedd and ensure alignment with NHS Wales and local authorities
• Implement and support public affairs and campaigning activity across Wales
• Work with colleagues to develop and support campaigning actions and volunteers
• Represent the Association at meetings and external events

About You:

• Excellent understanding of the Welsh political system, including Senedd processes and law-making mechanisms
• Experience of responding to policy consultations
• Experience delivering campaigns and public affairs activity
• Proven communication skills, both written and verbal, with the ability to influence and negotiate effectively
• Ability to work independently as well as collaboratively within a team
• Skilled at prioritising work to meet tight deadlines
• Willingness to travel and occasionally work evenings or weekends as required

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.

What We Offer:

• 28 days holiday, increasing to 33 days after 5 years, plus Bank Holidays.
• Access to UK Healthcare, including dental, eyecare, health screenings, and therapies.
• 24/7 GP access via phone and video.
• Life assurance and confidential counselling helplines.
• Salary sacrifice schemes (Cycle to Work, Buy/Sell Annual Leave).
• Access to Benefit Hub for discounts on everyday shopping.
• Enhanced pension scheme.
• Opportunities for training and personal development.
• Hybrid working.

The full job description and further information about working for the MND Association is available in the candidate pack.

We are committed to equality, diversity, and inclusivity. We work to remove barriers for everyone affected by MND, employees, volunteers, and stakeholders.

As part of the Disability Confident Scheme, we guarantee interviews for disabled applicants who meet the role's requirements.

Hybrid Working and Flexibility: This is a home-based in Wales, offering the opportunity to work flexibly while engaging with stakeholders across the nation.

If you are committed to making a difference and want to use your expertise to help improve lives, we would love to hear from you. Apply now to join us as a Senior Policy and Public Affairs Adviser and be part of our work to ensure people with MND, their careers and families in Wales receive the care and support they need.

Join us as Senior Public Affairs Manager, leading our national public affairs activity, influencing the government to help deliver evidence-based policies that will make a real difference to children’s health. This is an exciting opportunity to work on the forefront of an urgent and politically significant policy area while also collaborating with young people to ensure their voices and lived experiences are heard by policymakers. 

This is an exciting time to join Bite Back and take our public affairs strategy forward with the Government. We have already seen significant policy wins in the past year and have big ambitions to drive more progress in 2026. In 2024 and 2025 our youth activists gave evidence to the House of Lords, hosted parliamentary drop-in sessions and a mock inquiry, and made memorable appearances at party conference fringe sessions. This is an opportunity to build on that success and raise Bite Back’s profile even further amongst policymakers at a time when the Government is charting its new strategic approach to improving the food system as well as its 10 year plan to save the NHS. The Senior Public Affairs Manager will report to our Director of Advocacy & Strategy and be responsible for developing and implementing all our public affairs activity, ensuring alignment with our campaigns team and working closely with our partners in other organisations to bring about meaningful change. This is a great opportunity for someone looking for the chance to lead high profile public affairs activity at an organisation with growing impact.

Skills and Experience 

The ideal candidate would have the following:

Essential

• A demonstrable track record of working in public affairs in an agency, in-house or in Parliament

• Comfort and familiarity engaging with senior political stakeholders of all parties

• Excellent knowledge of the UK political landscape including the working of Westminster, Whitehall and existing relationships with MPs and advisors

• The ability to work collaboratively in a fast-paced environment and respond flexibly to adapt strategies to fit rapidly changing political landscapes

• An action oriented, results driven, well organised approach

• Strong writing and communication skills, with the ability to adapt messages and language to resonate with different audiences

• A passion for young people’s health, nutrition and social justice

• A commitment to Bite Back’s values: Fresh, Resilient, Respectful, Energetic, Real

Desirable

• Experience in utilising online support to deliver off-line change; Bite Back has a dynamic and growing supporter base that we want to integrate into our wider influencing work 

• Knowledge of the Scottish political landscape 

Please see our Job Description and application pack for more information on the role, key responsibilities and instructions on how to apply.

Public Affairs and Campaigns Manager - Inside Track

ABOUT US

There are millions of highly educated, well-paid, politically engaged people who care deeply about the world. Every morning, they go to work in professional services firms knowing that the firms they work for and the industries that they are a part of are blockers rather than enablers to a just transition. 

They look for ways to ‘make a difference’ internally but fall at every hurdle. They think about quitting but feel financially tied to their jobs. They become accepting of the fact that things are how they are. They become disillusioned and start to feel helplessness and even shame. They offer little value to the transformation that the world needs and that they themselves yearn for. 

Inside Track supports professionals working within major industries to come together — often in confidential or anonymous settings — to surface insights and build collective power for an equitable, regenerative future.

We’re seeking a Public Affairs and Campaigns Manager to lead the translation of those insights into bold, well-targeted campaigns that disrupt harmful norms and accelerate systems change.

This is a high-trust, high-impact role for someone who understands how industries function — and how to challenge them effectively. You’ll work closely with Insiders and partners to surface intelligence, identify pressure points, and design interventions that create influence from within.

This is not about attacking industry. Our Insiders care about their sectors and want them to thrive. Your role is to help shape campaigns that are both disruptive and credible — grounded in insider knowledge, strategically sharp, and emotionally intelligent.

ABOUT THE ROLE

This is an amazing opportunity for someone interested and experienced in how policy making, press and campaigns work. 

The role is at a start-up non-profit looking to create a global movement to support senior professionals in powerful industries to - collectively and anonymously - help drive positive change in their industries.

Your job will be to help serve as a conduit between groups of industry insiders and the regulators, policymakers, shareholders or consumer groups they want to activate. 

The job is perfect for someone deeply interested in and knowledgeable about the workings of government who has direct experience of briefing, engaging and working with Members of Parliament, civil servants, regulators, shareholders and/or press. 

You will also be working alongside and in partnership with NGOs and consumer groups.

PERSON SPECIFICATION

We’re looking for someone with a bold campaigning instinct, sound strategic judgement, and a strong track record of working directly with shareholders and/or government/policy makers/regulators. 

Our essential criteria is that you:

• Have at least 18 months experience working in Parliament, in public affairs or in shareholder management;

• Bring care and kindness in the work you do.

Additional key skills and experience:

• Campaign leadership: proven experience designing and delivering campaigns that influence public, policy or corporate behaviour;

• Power mapping and strategy: strong instincts for pressure, timing, and influence in complex systems;

• Stakeholder engagement: skilled at working across insider and outsider groups — from boardroom to protest line;

• Communication: exceptional writing and messaging skills; confident with the press and public platforms;

• Confidentiality and care: understands the risks insiders face and knows how to build trust and safeguard participation.

HOW TO APPLY 

Stage 1: Applicants are requested to apply via CharityJob by 10am on 27th October 2025. 

Stage 2: You’ll be invited to submit a full cover letter and/or attend a video call interview with one of our team to discuss your application. 

Stage 3: We will be providing you with exercise (max time commitment 1hr) to complete. 

Stage 4: You’ll be invited to a second interview, likely in person.

TIMELINE

Closing date: 10am on 27th October 2025

Interviews: November 2025

Start date: December 2025 / January 2026

A NOTE ON INCLUSION

We are committed to building a team that reflects a wide range of experiences, backgrounds and perspectives.

If you’re not sure whether you tick every box, but feel excited about the work, we strongly encourage you to apply.

We particularly welcome candidates from backgrounds underrepresented in media, campaigning, and systems change roles — including people of colour, disabled candidates, and those from working-class or non-traditional paths.

Please note that to be considered for this post, you must be legally eligible to work in the UK. We are unable to hire anyone that isn’t already living in the UK, nor are we able to sponsor visas. 

WELLBEING AND TEAM CULTURE

This is a remote working role with regular travel to London. As a team we enjoy coworking together in-person on a regular basis, and invest in our working relationships. 

Building a culture of wellness is important to us. All employees at Inside Track are able to access to 1-1 coaching and wellbeing support to help them navigate this work. 

For further info and the full job description, please see the attachment below. 

 #campaigns #campaigning #public affairs #campaigns manager #public affairs manager 

Location: Rochester Airport, Kent
Department: Communications
Salary: £45,000 - £50,000
Hours: Full Time, Monday to Friday, 37 hours per week
Contract Type: Permanent

We are Air Ambulance Charity Kent Surrey Sussex (KSS), and we fight every day to save lives. We are Team KSS, a close-knit team of dedicated, skilled, sector-leading experts with an incredible level of expertise. We are passionate about what we do which drives us to always deliver our very best.

We’re driven by our purpose of saving lives and ensuring the best possible outcomes for our patients. Last year alone we responded to over 3,100 incidents. We are fearless and tireless in fighting to save every life.

Our charity headquarters and forward operating base are located at Rochester Airport, with our aircraft hangar and maintained at Redhill Aerodrome. When the call comes, we can reach any part of Kent, Surrey or Sussex in under 30 minutes.

Main Purpose of Role:

As Head of Media and PR, you will be a master of effective public engagement communications and storytelling, and a key member of our talented and ambitious Marketing and Communications Team. You will lead on the implementation of our Media and Public Relations strategy and be responsible for its effective delivery and ongoing integration into our wider MarComms strategy, Income Generation, Marketing and Communications Directorate (IGMC) and wider long term organisational strategy. Our directorate’s overall goal is to generate and inspire the support we need to continue saving lives every day across Kent, Surrey and Sussex now and into the future.

Inclusion and Diversity:

KSS is committed to creating an equal, diverse and truly inclusive culture where everyone feels welcome and able to be their authentic selves.

We believe that everyone has the right to live without fear or prejudice, and be treated fairly, and with respect and dignity regardless of race, age, gender, disability, sexual orientation, social class, religion and belief.

We reserve the right to close the position early if the role is filled.

Benefits package is correct at the time this advert was published.

Benefits: 25 days annual leave rising with service Occupational/Enhanced Sick Pay Enhanced Parental Leave Access to the Blue Light Card and Blue Light Events Access to the Wellbeing Hub Group Personal Pension Scheme Group Life Assurance Cover Group Income Protection Cover Critical Illness Cover Employee Assistance Programmes Development opportunities

REF-224 409

We are seeking a highly motivated Policy Analyst to join Centre for Mental Health and lead a new, high-profile programme of work. This is an exciting opportunity to shape the national conversation on mental health at a time of major political and policy developments.

As Policy Analyst, you will convene and coordinate activity across leading sector partners, producing and commissioning robust analysis that addresses key challenges such as early intervention, waiting lists and the economic impact of poor mental health. You will turn evidence into clear, compelling messages for policymakers, ensuring that the collective voice of the sector is heard at the highest levels, including with MPs, Ministers and No.10.

This role offers the chance to make a significant impact on mental health policy in the UK. You will work closely with partners, colleagues and people with lived experience to develop credible, influential positions that can shift national priorities and tackle inequalities. If you are an excellent communicator with strong analytical skills and a passion for driving change, we would love to hear from you.

Centre for Mental Health is committed to promoting equity, diversity and inclusion in all aspects of our work, to help create better mental health for all. We are taking active steps to become an antiracist organisation, and we value and support staff with lived experience of mental health challenges. We aim to build a diverse and representative team, and we strongly encourage people from minoritised backgrounds to apply. We are happy to provide reasonable adjustments during the recruitment process for disabled applicants.

Company Description

Marie Curie is the UK’s leading end of life charity. We are the largest non-NHS provider of end of life care in the UK, the only provider across all 4 nations, delivering community nursing and hospice care across the country, while providing information and support on all aspects of dying, death, and bereavement. Our leading research pushes the boundaries of what we know about good end of life, and our campaigns fight for a world where everyone gets to have the best possible quality of life while living with an illness, they’re likely to die from.

Job Description

You’ll join Marie Curie’s Policy & Public Affairs team in Scotland – part of our award-winning UK Policy & Research Directorate. We are a collaborative, passionate, and evidence-driven team working to influence national and local government, challenge inequalities, and ensure palliative and end of life care is accessible and high-quality for everyone.

As Senior Policy Manager, you’ll play a leading role in shaping Scotland’s end of life care agenda. You will develop evidence-based policies, build influential relationships with decision-makers, and lead strategic campaigns to drive meaningful change. Working alongside colleagues across the UK, you’ll help deliver Marie Curie’s vision of a Scotland where everyone’s right to palliative care becomes a reality.

Your Impact:

• Lead development of high-impact policy projects to influence end of life care in Scotland.
• Build and maintain relationships with MSPs, ministers, government officials, and sector leaders.
• Develop and deliver public affairs and campaign strategies to influence decision-makers.
• Analyse and respond to government consultations and legislative developments.
• Represent Marie Curie Scotland externally through media, conferences, and events.
• Collaborate with colleagues and partners across the UK to deliver evidence-led, coordinated policy change.
• Contribute to the Scotland policy team’s strategic direction and deputise for the Associate Director when required.

Key Criteria:

• Significant experience leading policy and public affairs work, ideally in health or social care.
• Strong political awareness and proven ability to influence at national and local levels.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with experience drafting high-quality reports and briefings.
• Strategic thinker with strong negotiation and relationship-building skills.
• Understanding of Scottish Government and Parliament structures, and health and social care policy context.
• Experience engaging with media and speaking at public events.
• Commitment to tackling inequity and improving end of life experiences for all.

Please see the full job description .

Additional Information

Application & Interview Process

• As part of your online application, you will be asked for a CV and supplementary details. Please review both the advert and job description and outline your most relevant skills, experience and knowledge for the role.
• Close date for applications: 28 Oct 2025.

Salary: £45-50,000 per annum

Contract: Full-time (35 hours per week), permanent

Based: Home-based with regular travel to Edinburgh

Benefits you’ll LOVE:

• Flexible working. We’re happy to discuss flexible working at the interview stage.
• 25 days annual leave (exclusive of Bank Holidays)
• Marie Curie Group Personal Pension Scheme (we will match your contribution up to 7.5%)
• Loan schemes for bikes; computers and season tickets
• Continuous professional development opportunities.
• Industry-leading training programmes
• Wellbeing and Employee Assistance Programmes
• Enhanced bereavement, family friendly and sickness benefits
• Access to Blue Light Card membership
• Subsidised Eye Care

Marie Curie is committed to its values, which underpin our work. We take stringent steps to ensure that the people who join our organisation through employment or volunteering, are suitable for their roles and are committed to safeguarding all our people from harm. This includes our staff, volunteers and all those who use or come into contact with our services. We are dedicated to creating not just a safe place to work but also a supportive and rewarding one.

We are committed to a world where everyone can thrive and fulfil their potential. We are devoted to the social justice imperatives and organisational benefits of full diversity, inclusion and equity in the workplace, and are a Stonewall champion. We actively encourage and welcome applications from candidates of diverse cultures, perspectives and lived experiences.

The Talent Set are partnered with leading Health organisation who is seeking a Senior Media and PR Manager – Policy, Campaigns and Public Health to join their ambitious media and PR team. This is an exciting time to join the organisation as they launch a new five-year strategy this autumn to supercharge efforts to transform lives. This role is a fixed-term, 12-month contract.

Key responsibilities

• Develop and lead the delivery of ambitious annual media and PR plans for the charity's policy, campaigns, and public health activities, ensuring alignment with the new overarching strategy.

• Lead media and PR activity to build profile that increases the charity's influence, engagement, and support among target audiences.

• Champion the needs of people affected by breast cancer within the media.

• Engage key policy decision-makers and the NHS with the charity's calls to action.

• Communicate vital early detection health information and messaging to health professionals and the public.

• Digest and translate complex health information and policy subjects into accessible and engaging copy for the media at pace.

• Apply an instinctive news sense to identify proactive and reactive media opportunities to secure impactful media profile and share of voice.

• Work closely with colleagues to forward plan and maintain tight alignment and consistency across all communications output, demonstrating a strategic mindset.

• Play a key part in supporting the day-to-day leadership of the wider media and PR team.

• Effectively prioritise multiple and complex projects, handling conflicting demands and tight deadlines.

Person Specifications

• Excellent ability to build and nurture impactful relationships, both internally and externally, at all levels.

• An effective negotiator with the ability to balance complex and sensitive stakeholder needs to secure media profile that delivers critical information to key audiences.

• A sensitive communicator in interactions with people affected by cancer who support the charity’s work.

• Strong experience working in health communications, and media/PR relations environments.

• A natural planner with a strategic mindset who considers the bigger picture.

• Proven ability to digest and translate complex health information and policy subjects into accessible and engaging copy for media.

• Proven ability to prioritise multiple and complex projects and manage conflicting demands and tight deadlines.

What’s on Offer:

• This is a 12 month FTC, starting as soon as possible. 
• Hybrid working set-up - 2 days a week in central London 
• Salary banding £47,000-£52,000
• Full-time role, due to the busy nature of the role we can only consider applications who can work 5 days. If you already work in a job share, we could consider two applications from candidates who have previous worked in that setting together. 

How to Apply: To apply, please submit your CV demonstrating your suitability for this role by clicking the “apply now” button.

The process: If your experience aligns with what we're looking for, a member of our team will be in contact to discuss the role with you in more detail before presenting your profile to the client. We will also ensure that all applicants receive an email to inform them of the outcome of their application.

To avoid any potential delays or your application being missed, please apply solely via the 'Apply Now' button.

Commitment to Diversity: The Talent Set and our partner organisation are committed to diverse and inclusive recruitment practices, ensuring equal opportunities for all applicants regardless of race, sexual orientation, disability, age, or gender. We actively encourage applications from a wide range of backgrounds and are always happy to make reasonable adjustments to ensure a fair recruitment process.

About Demos

Demos is a highly respected cross-party think tank with a unique approach to making policy to solve our long term problems. Building on nearly 30 years of creativity, ideas and impact, Demos’s mission is to upgrade democracy: rebuilding the relationship between citizen and state. Our work explores the elements of a ‘New Deal’, in which power is devolved, citizens participate in policy making, and together as a nation we find answers to the challenges of our century.

About Waves

Demos is leading the largest trial of digital democracy in Britain. 

Trust in politics and politicians is in crisis. Only 24% of people trust politicians to make decisions in the best interests of the country. Polarisation is increasing. At the same time, people want to be involved in the public policy decisions that affect them. 

Waves is a €1 million project trialling new technology in local democracy, launched to bring people together to tackle contentious local issues and strengthen trust in local government. Thousands of local people will have the opportunity to shape local government policy on an issue affecting their area.

New AI-powered technology is intended to make it easier, cheaper and quicker for participants to have their say, identify areas of consensus, discuss difficult issues and work through trade-offs together. 

We are working in partnership with two trailblazing councils who are both embracing the opportunity to put the public at the heart of their policy making. The trial will begin in the London Borough of Camden to co-develop an approach to adult social care. The trial will then move on to South Staffordshire District Council as they develop an inclusive engagement process to prepare for their next local plan. The partners will also support a further 25 councils to observe and learn from the process so that they too can use the tools in the future.

About the role 

We are looking for an experienced programme manager who can steer Waves from now until it completes in December 2026. 

You would be joining the programme at a pivotal time as we move from the ‘set-up’ and ‘co-design’ phases of the first 6-months, to the start of the first of our two trials running sequentially over the next 11 months, before moving to a final ‘impact phase’ of dissemination of our toolkits, technology and learning in the final 6 months.

Programme management of Waves means ensuring that the whole project stays on track – on time and on budget – throughout its delivery. There are 5 partners, a number of suppliers and many moving parts, so it is critical that we find someone who can work across the whole programme, anticipating who needs to do what and by when, and ensuring that the programme is delivered successfully so we can draw learnings from it to share widely across the local government, democracy, and tech sectors. 

It is worth bearing in mind that Waves is a ‘test and learn’ trial of a new deliberative democratic process using existing and new technology. Therefore, the team is committed to learning from the project and being comfortable with the uncertainty of not knowing exactly what the outcomes are going to be. 

What you'll need to be sucessful

The types of knowledge, skills and experience we are looking for are below. We welcome a range of applications which include at least some of these attributes.

• Demonstrable experience managing an equivalent programme in terms of complexity, scale and partners with a solid understanding of project management methods.
• Understanding and commitment to the mission of the programme – motivated to tackle issues of low trust in democracy among UK citizens with digital democratic platforms and deliberative processes a crucial part of the solution.
• Team management, interpersonal and communication skills – ability to lead and motivate a team with diverse skills and priorities to deliver a programme of great complexity and uncertainty, including fostering collaboration and trust, managing conflicts, maintaining transparency and empowering different partners to perform effectively.
• Strong strategic thinking and decision-making skills – the ability to align activities with overall programme objectives, making informed decisions based on programme lead and partner inputs and, where possible, data and analysis, and drive the programme towards successful outcomes. 
• Ability to identify potential risks, develop mitigation strategies and manage issues that may arise during the programme lifecycle – ideally in an innovation context, one working with diverse partners with different ways of working or when using technology/ conducting trials with the public.
• An interest in, and comfort working with, innovative technologies that utilise AI and collect data, as well as an understanding of the risks and sensitivities surrounding the use of AI, among the public and within the public sector.
• Experience of owning and managing a large-scale budget, conducting calculations when there are changes from the plan, and maintaining clear and robust tracking of expenditure to ensure financial accountability.
• Demonstrable ability to adapt to changing circumstances, solve problems creatively and maintain momentum and energy during challenging situations.
• Highly collaborative, with a commitment to teamwork and inclusivity.

Application and selection process

To apply, please provide the following through our application form:

• an anonymised CV (with any references to your name and personal details removed)
• answers to four screening questions (up to 250 words each) 
• a completed copy of our diversity monitoring form (optional)

All applications will be evaluated and graded anonymously to minimise bias in our screening process.

Questions?

If you have any further questions or aren’t sure if the role is right for you, please feel free to reach out to us and we would be happy to answer any queries. 

We look forward to hearing from you!

Harris Hill is looking for a Policy, Campaigns, and Public Affairs Assistant for 3 months, full time, working hybrid based, with 2days per week in the London office. 

This role is an amazing opportunity for someone looking to gain further experience in this field, perhaps someone with a years experience in a public affairs, marcomms, or campaigns field.

The role will pay a key supporting function within the department, assisting with tasks such as:

Coordinating briefings for MP's and debates

Drafting letters

Communications and marketing material for MP's, Politicians and other internal/external staff.

Social Media updating and content

Facebook monitoring and responding to queries on their campaigns page.

Research for fact finding to help toward other communications and writing materials.

Other supporting tasks as and when needed.

If you are interested in this role, please apply for further information. 

Gypsy, Roma and Traveller communities experience some of the starkest inequalities of any groups in the UK. In this role, you will be working as part of the Policy and Public Affairs Team, to tackle the root causes of inequalities faced by Gypsy, Roma and Traveller communities.

As Policy and Research Officer, you will play a key role in strengthening our policy, research and public affairs work across our priority areas: accommodation, tackling hate, financial and economic inclusion, health, and education.

The postholder will support work to influence decision-makers, amplify the voices of Gypsy, Roma and Traveller communities, and advocate for fairer laws and policies.

The role involves undertaking research, producing evidence-based briefings, supporting parliamentary engagement, and working with partners to promote equality and human rights.

Due to the nature of the role, the successful applicant will need to be based in our Brighton office, and we may be able to accommodate a degree of flexible working subject to successful completion of a three-month probation period.

Key Responsibilities

Policy and Research

• Undertake research, analyse data, and produce high-quality briefings and reports.
• Monitor and respond to government consultations and emerging policy issues.
• Contribute to reports and other external submissions, such as human rights treaty monitoring and select committees.

Parliamentary and Public Affairs

• Support the organisation’s role as Secretariat to the All-Party Parliamentary Group on Gypsies, Travellers and Roma, including liaising with parliamentarians, drafting parliamentary questions and correspondence, and organising events.
• Work with colleagues and partners to influence decision-makers and ensure the experiences of Gypsy, Roma and Traveller communities are heard.
• Build and maintain effective relationships with stakeholders across sectors.

Other Key Responsibilities

• Deliver on designated work streams, ensuring objectives and deadlines are met.
• Contribute to the development and delivery of project plans and track progress against agreed outcomes.
• Gather and present data for monitoring and evaluation reports to funders.
• Provide the necessary administrative support for the policy and public affairs work.

• Ensure all work complies with organisational policies on confidentiality, safeguarding, and equality.
• Undertake other duties as reasonably required.

The Work Rights Centre is a leading advocate for the rights of migrants and vulnerable workers. Our frontline team recovers thousands in unpaid wages and helps hundreds of people to secure their immigration status every year. But we know that to create lasting change, we can't just fix individual problems—we have to change the systems that cause them. This is where you come in.

We are looking for a Policy Manager to continue leading our ambitious policy influencing work. This is a senior role, ideal for someone with substantial public affairs experience, a deep understanding of how immigration and employment laws can perpetuate exploitation, and a genuine passion for social justice. 

You will be joining us at a time of real growth. The charity has established its presence with policymakers, and has earned a reputation for high-quality research, nuanced recommendations, and extraordinary agility.  We don’t miss a single policy development concerning migrant workers, and pride ourselves for our ability to quickly digest the implications, support our arguments with data, and work with journalists to secure public support for our calls for change. This  is possible thanks to our passionate systems-change team, who bring together expertise in strategic communications, data analysis, and research, as well as our wider legal team. We are looking for a colleague who can match their passion and hit the ground running. 

The Role

As Policy Manager you will be the driving force of our policy influencing agenda. We count on you to develop nuanced recommendations, grounded in high-quality research, and to work with policy makers to raise awareness, secure buy-in, and achieve real-world change. Reporting directly to the CEO, your main responsibilities will include:

• Monitoring policy developments at the intersection of employment and work-migration. In the short term, in employment you will keep an eye on the Fair Work Agency and the implementation of the government’s Make Work Pay agenda. In immigration, you will monitor developments concerning high-risk employer-sponsored visas.

• Producing nuanced analyses that spell out the implications of policy developments in a clear and accessible manner, and conclude with actionable recommendations.

• Influencing decision-makers, including government, parliamentarians, parliamentary committees and APPGs. This includes evidence submissions, 1:1s, and working in multi-stakeholder environments.

• Contributing to research publications that document the systemic drivers of migrant worker exploitation, and draw on best practice to give policy makers options for change. 

• Contributing to the charity’s strategy, and taking up line management duties as required.

About you

This is a senior role for a candidate who can hit the ground running. We would love to hear from you if you have:

• Good knowledge of UK immigration and/or employment justice, evidenced by academic credentials and/or professional experience.

• At least three years of professional experience in policy influencing. We will consider less if you can demonstrate other relevant experience (i.e. in research or legal advice).

• Excellent analytical and research skills, evidenced by a track-record of publications (such as policy analyses, reports etc).

• Excellent communication skills, including an ability to work effectively in a multi-stakeholder environment.

• A real sense of purpose, commitment to our mission, and appreciation for the power of team work. 

We particularly welcome applicants who have lived experience of injustice at the intersection of employment and immigration policies. Even if you are unsure if you meet all the criteria, if you trust your voice and think you have a lot to offer, we encourage you to apply.

How to apply

Download the full job description and person specification, and send your CV and Cover Letter by midnight on Sunday, 26th October.  Please include links to at least two publications you authored in your cover letter. These can be blog posts, reports, or book chapters. We are particularly interested in publications related to this role, but generally want to see that you can write to a high standard.

What happens after you apply

We will consider applications on a rolling basis, and will invite strong candidates to complete a technical task. We may start interviews before the application deadline, but will continue to interview until 31 October, to ensure that all applicants are given a fair chance. We seek to appoint a candidate as soon as reasonably possible, and are prepared to accommodate hybrid working to ease their transition into the post. If you have any accessibility requirements, please do not hesitate to let us know.