Research and public affairs officer jobs
Employer: Community Rail Network
Salary: £43k-£51.5k pa, full time
Location: Home based / flexible or Huddersfield
We are seeking a dynamic director of policy and communications, to lead and develop our increasingly impactful external affairs activity. You’ll be sharing community insights and evidence with policy and decision-makers at national and devolved level, supporting a shift towards more inclusive and sustainable transport and mobility, while overseeing high-quality, inspiring member communications and thought-leadership, drawing on grassroots experiences.
About us
Community Rail Network is a national not-for-profit organisation supporting a growing ‘community rail’ movement, which helps communities get the most from their railways, promotes sustainable and inclusive travel, coordinates volunteering and place-making, and brings people together.
Community rail is made up of 76 community-based partnership organisations, and c.1,300 station friends volunteer groups and other community-led initiatives around Britain. Their activities range from creative projects for young people, to advising train operators on service improvements, to building travel confidence among marginalised groups, to biodiversity projects at stations, to promoting greener tourism by rail.
Our enthusiastic team of 24 works from home in different locations, but we come together regularly in person and online. We work collaboratively to support our members, provide training, events and resources, run campaigns, and champion community rail and its insights. We believe in developing our team and helping everyone reach their potential while having a good work-life balance.
About this role
This role is crucial for us, our members and their communities, especially at the current time, with our need to seize on the opportunities of rail reform and devolution, promote wider use of sustainable transport, and bring communities together. You will spearhead our external affairs strategy and plans, building political relationships, influencing decision-making and raising awareness of community rail and its insights, while ensuring effective communications with our members and helping them to have a voice locally and regionally. You’ll be striving to put community rail at the forefront of a shift towards more inclusive and sustainable mobility.
As a member of our senior leadership team, reporting to and working closely with our chief executive, you will manage a passionate team of four, ensuring collaboration with our other teams, partners and funders, and drawing on members’ insights.
Main responsibilities
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Lead the review, development and delivery of our communications, policy and insights strategy, working to position the community rail movement effectively, use its insights to influence policy change, and ensure our members are well-informed and have a voice;
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Further strengthen our advisory and influencing work with national, devolved and regional government, transport bodies, parliamentarians and other decision-makers, especially around rail reform, transport devolution and integrated, inclusive, sustainable transport;
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Ensure we’re engaging effectively with policy developments and opportunities, taking forward a programme of relationship-building, and identifying and engaging in relevant consultations, events and speaking opportunities, enabling community rail’s insights and experiences to be shared;
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Collaborate with partners in rail, government and the third sector to feed in our expertise on community engagement with rail, amplify our campaigns, and build opportunities for joined-up communications and policy work;
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Continually develop and disseminate our evidence base and insights on the social, environmental and economic value community rail delivers, and opportunities to create greater benefits for communities from rail and transport;
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Oversee high-quality, coherent and inspiring communications with our members and partners, promoting our work, and sharing news, opportunities, and good practice across the movement;
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Manage production of high-quality resources, case studies and reports that our members can use to enhance their impact and which showcase community rail’s impact;
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Lead and develop our media relations and awareness-raising PR, championing community rail and its messages on sustainable, inclusive travel and communities at national and regional level, while supporting members on local PR;
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Develop our online presence and reach, making full use of our website, social media, our Scenic Rail Britain campaign, and partners’ channels to celebrate and position community rail and grow its reach and impact;
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Oversee a calendar of creative and impactful campaigns that involve and empower our members, creating PR and engagement opportunities, including Community Rail Week;
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Play a key role in collective leadership, strategic focus and organisational development as a member of our senior leadership team, including through internal communications and cross-team working, annual planning, funder liaison and reporting, upholding our strategies and policies, and pursuing opportunities for continuous improvement.
Skills and competencies
- Strong leadership and management skills, including experience managing, developing and drawing on a multi-faceted team delivering complex campaigns or projects, and budget management;
- Excellent communication and external leadership skills; articulate, assertive, and with the ability to work diplomatically and persuasively with stakeholders at all levels;
- An understanding of public affairs, ideally in relation to community development, sustainability and/or transport, and a demonstrable ability to identify influencing opportunities, deliver thought-leadership, and engage with policy-makers, including sharing community insights;
- Politically astute, with awareness of and commitment to social inclusion, social justice and sustainability, and a good grasp of the importance of public transport sustainable travel, and community-led action, to these agendas;
- Understanding of political processes and experience of engaging with policy and decision-making, ideally at national, devolved and local levels;
- Sound knowledge of communication and marketing methods and channels, and ability to oversee messaging and targeting of public and professional audiences, and to align content across multiple channels;
- A demonstrable ability to think analytically and draw on statistical and qualitative research to construct robust, evidence-based arguments;
- Experience of working with the media and achieving coverage at national, regional and local level;
- Experience working collaboratively with partners and ideally funders to deliver communications and policy activity and forming professional networks;
- Excellent organisational skills, with the ability to work under pressure and meet deadlines while dealing with competing priorities, and to support team members to do so;
- IT literate with a good working knowledge of Office, the internet and social media;
- Appropriate qualifications and professional development demonstrating knowledge and skills in line with the above, and a commitment to ongoing learning and development.
Other information
As you will be home-based, we are flexible about your location. However, you will be expected to travel to in-person full team meetings quarterly (usually in West Yorkshire), and you will need to bring your team together (currently all West Yorkshire based) with similar regularity in between. Attendance at in-person events and meetings is also important. We therefore welcome applications from those with decent public transport links, not too far from a railway station, to enable journeys to be made sustainably.
This is a full-time position, 37 hours per week. We use a flexi-time system with core hours 10am-3pm, and are committed to being a flexible, supportive and understanding employer. This is a permanent position with a probationary period of six months.
Community Rail Network is an equal opportunities employer. We welcome applications from disabled people and Black, Asian and other minoritised groups, who meet with the skills and competencies for this role. We will provide reasonable adjustments for interviews as required.
Championing the community rail movement | Connecting people and their railways | Creating inclusive, empowered, sustainable and healthy communities
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Job Purpose
The Head of Campaigns will work to ensure that we meet our UK campaign goals, currently for Marine Protected Areas, Sustainable Fisheries, and Offshore Oil and Gas.
Reporting to and advising the Executive Director, and working closely with the Leadership Team, you will oversee the planning, development and implementation of all delivery across our current campaigns. You will manage the Campaigns team (2 direct and 2 indirect reports) to ensure that we deliver impactful campaigns that ultimately achieve our goals.
Eligible candidates should be confident and proactive, with the ability to oversee multiple projects, and with excellent team management skills. They must have sector relevant campaigning experience, be able to support and advise during the annual strategic planning cycles, and be enthusiastic and positive in response to the changing demands of a small team. They must be passionate, and able to design and develop creative and bold campaign strategies alongside our small but experienced team.
The position will be hybrid, with 3 days per week (Tues-Thurs) based in Oceana’s UK offices in Newquay, Cornwall or Paddington, London. Regular national, and occasional international, travel will be required to meet team members and stakeholders in geographically diverse locations, including Washington, DC.
Oceana
Oceana is dedicated to protecting and restoring the world’s oceans on a global scale. We are a leader in science-based advocacy, and we campaign for policies to make the world’s oceans more abundant, vibrant, and biodiverse. Globally, Oceana has won more than 325 policy victories for marine life and habitats. From stopping bottom trawling in sensitive habitat areas to protecting sea turtles from commercial fishing gear, our victories represent new hope for the world's ocean. Our talented staff consists globally of about 240 people, working in more than twelve countries, including scientists, communications, fundraising, finance, administration, policy, and advocacy experts. All team members have the opportunity for occasional travel to our headquarters in Washington, DC to connect with the global network.
Oceana in the UK is tightly focused on some of the biggest threats facing UK seas, including protecting seabed habitats, ending overfishing, and preventing new offshore oil and gas developments.
We fight for UK seas to get the protections they deserve through highly visible campaigns and detailed policy interventions to secure measurable changes to rebuild and maintain ocean abundance and health. We act as a vital public-policy interface – raising the profile of our issues through campaigns, science, communications, and expeditions, and influencing policymakers directly for commitments at key moments throughout the year.
Our small, experienced, and highly motivated team work in geographically diverse locations in London and Cornwall, coming together both digitally and in person as part of developing and delivering our ambitious campaign strategy to restore ocean biodiversity and abundance.
We’re proud to be bold, creative, agile and visual in our campaigns, and proud of the team we’re creating here in the UK. We’d love for you to join us.
Responsibilities
- Lead all current campaigns, and take accountability for the quality, timeliness and success of all campaign activities and deliverables in support of our campaign goals.
- Oversee all projects across the campaigns team including (but not limited to) campaign actions and launches, public mobilisations, digital actions, NGO partnerships and coalitions, and potential legal challenges.
- Oversee and document project planning, ensuring activities are underpinned by an effective theory of change, and ensuring input and buy-in is secured from all relevant members of the UK and HQ teams.
- Monitor and evaluate progress against plans, ensuring effective delivery of campaign objectives.
- Oversee the campaign calendar and budget, ensuring that all campaign deliverables are managed and delivered on time and to budget, with any updates accurately reflected in the quarterly reforecast process.
- Work closely with the Executive Director, Leadership Team and global team members on the strategic development and innovation of campaigns, reviewing and setting annual plans, longer term goals, and new campaign areas.
- Understand and monitor all components of all campaigns and be able to confidently communicate progress and details to internal and external stakeholders.
- Oversee public affairs activities, manage political consultancy and co-ordinate Oceana presence at relevant political meetings and events.
- Collaborate closely with senior Science and Research, Policy, and Communications colleagues to ensure campaigns have robust and complementary foundations across all departments.
- Work with the UK leadership team to develop and communicate a compelling campaign vision and strategy to Oceana staff, supporters, donors, and allies.
- Work as part of the UK’s Leadership Team, contributing to decision making and overall progress towards organisational goals, and represent campaigns in this forum.
- Represent the Leadership Team in person in the London or Cornwall office 3 days per week (Tues-Thurs), providing direction and guidance and promoting a positive working culture.
- Manage and support 2 line reports, and 2 indirect reports, helping to coach and lead a high-performing Campaigns team.
- Build strong external relationships and represent Oceana UK to ensure we advance our campaign goals with a wide range of stakeholders, including civil servants, politicians, the fishing industry, NGOs, and businesses.
- Draft timely, accurate and compelling funder and supporter reporting.
- Draft periodic progress reporting on UK campaign goals and milestones for Oceana’s global board.
- Be prepared to represent the organisation publicly where needed, including through media interviews, speaking events, and writing.
- Ensure a strong commitment to the organisation's values and vision, as set out by Oceana globally.
- Travel occasionally, both nationally and internationally, to meet with team members and wider internal and external stakeholders.
- Other responsibilities as appropriate and necessary to achieve campaign and organisational objectives.
Candidate Requirements
Education and work experience:
- At least 7 years of professional experience in campaigning, ideally toward ocean or environmental goals (essential).
- Experience leading and developing campaign strategic plans, alongside detailed annual plans and budgets.
- Proven experience developing innovative, bold and creative campaign activities in support of overall campaign goals.
- Experience as an active member of a Leadership Team or Management Team in a similar organisation.
- Extensive line management experience, including of multiple reports.
- Experience working in an international NGO (preferred).
- Experience working closely with policy colleagues, lobbying and negotiating with civil servants in government on policy matters.
- Experience working closely with communications colleagues, ensuring effective messaging and engaging growing audiences.
Skills and knowledge:
- Familiarity with fisheries or marine and environmental regulations, legislation and policies in the UK, as well as with the key institutions and decision-making processes.
- Excellent project management skills, with demonstrable experience managing and prioritising multiple workstreams, tasks, projects and timelines effectively.
- Attention to detail and a commitment to quality and impactful campaign outputs.
- Excellent management skills, and proven ability to work effectively in a team environment.
- Excellent relationship building and stakeholder management skills, and the ability to work collaboratively with staff and with other organisations and allies.
- Strong analytical skills with the ability to collect, organise, analyse, and disseminate significant amounts of information with attention to detail and accuracy.
- Good understanding of the principles of Justice, Equity, Diversity and Inclusion, and a proven commitment to improving these in the environmental space.
- Excellent communication and public speaking skills, with the ability to speak confidently in the media and at events.
- Integrity and the ability to work with confidential information with discretion.
Equal Opportunities
Oceana is committed to having a diverse workforce that is representative of the community it serves at all levels of the organisation, and we particularly welcome applications from candidates who are currently underrepresented within the conservation sector.
All offers of employment are conditional upon the successful completion of reference checks and a criminal background check.
- Application Deadline: Sunday 11th January
- Interview Dates (TBC)
Salary: £65,000–£75,000
Hours: 37.5 per week
Location: Barnsley Hospice (Gawber) & Retail Hub (Dodworth)
Barnsley Hospice is seeking an inspirational Director of Income Generation to lead the strategic growth of our fundraising, retail, marketing and communications activity. As a key member of our Executive Leadership Team, you will shape the future of our income strategy to ensure we can continue delivering exceptional care for local people and their families.
In this pivotal role, you will:
- Lead the development of innovative, sustainable income streams across fundraising, retail and commercial partnerships
- Strengthen our brand, communications and digital presence to grow awareness and engagement
- Build strong relationships with donors, supporters and partners
- Provide expert strategic leadership, governance and insight to colleagues, trustees and stakeholders
- Inspire and develop high‑performing teams who live our values and deliver meaningful impact
If you are a visionary, collaborative leader with a passion for making a difference in your community, we would love to hear from you.
If you wouldlike to apply please upload your CV and covering letter.
Please explain your interest in Barnsley Hospice and how your skills and experience reflect the person specification for the role.
An informal visit to the hospice to meet our CEO/Chief Nurse and relevant teams is an essential step in the application process and must take place before the deadline.
Barnsley Hospice is committed to Equality, Diversity & Inclusionin all that we do and welcome applications from all sections of the community. We particularly welcome applications from Black, Asian and minority ethnic candidates, LGBTQIA+ candidates and candidates with disabilities because we are committed to increasing the representation of these groups at Barnsley Hospice.
Any candidate who identifies themselves as disabled will be shortlisted if they meet the essential criteria for the role. Essential criteria can be found in the job description and person specification for the role. If you require any accessibility adjustments ,please contact a memberof the HR team
The closing date for applications is midnighton Sunday 18 January 2026.
The shortlist of candidates will be determined the following week.
Panel interviews will take place on Thursday 5 February 2026.
Be part of shaping a sustainable future for Barnsley Hospice.
Apply now and help us deliver care, compassion and support when it matters most.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Would you like to join an organisation that is striving for systemic change? We believe it is not enough to reform structures and systems which are foundationally discriminatory. We are calling for a complete overhaul, and for people with lived experience to lead that change.
Migration is one of the most hotly debated political topics with rapid policy changes shaping the lives of millions. We’re looking for a proactive and inspiring leader to join us as Interim Head of Policy and Communications.
In this vital role, you will champion our mission to create a just society for all migrants, ensuring those with lived experience are at the centre of our work and heard by policymakers and supporters alike. You will influence national policies, engage diverse stakeholders, from policymakers to grassroots groups, and build impactful communication campaigns.
Working closely with our CEO and as part of the Senior Leadership Team, you will help shape the strategic direction of our policy and communication efforts during this critical time.
The successful candidate will play a pivotal role in contributing to a vision for intersectional campaigns that call for systemic change, and for those with lived experience to lead the changes we need.
If you’re passionate about social justice, experienced in policy and advocacy, and a skilled communicator, we want to hear from you!
As a lived experience and values-led organisation, and diverse team, we are looking for candidates with a:
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Commitment to upholding the rights of ALL migrants
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Real vision as to how this can be done in the current political, social and economic climate
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A commitment to MRN's vision and values
The salary will be £43,817 per annum, pro-rata. In addition, MRN contributes up to 6% of salary to pensions. We are keen to have someone start in the role immediately.
Closing date for applications: 9am, 14 January 2026
Date for candidate interviews: 26 January 2026
We are a charity and campaigning organisation that stands in solidarity with all migrants in their fights for rights and justice.

The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
White Ribbon is the leading organisation in the UK working to engage men and boys in ending violence against women and girls. Our mission is to prevent men’s violence against women through addressing its root causes, gender inequality and harmful gender norms and stereotypes. We do this by working with individual men and boys, organisations, and the community, helping them to understand the scale of the problem, and how they can be part of the solution.
This is an exciting time to join White Ribbon as our work and profile has grown significantly over recent years as the importance of engaging men in ending violence has become more apparent. We have an increasing public presence, through campaigning activities, policy influence, in the media and online.
Location: This is a London based post, with remote working. Most frequent and regular networking and partnership meetings and events will be in London, with some travel throughout England and Wales, particularly around the White Ribbon Day period. You will be required to attend occasional meetings with the staff team at various locations around the country, including quarterly in West Yorkshire.
You will lead our policy work to influence decision makers and our awareness raising campaigns, including our flagship White Ribbon Day and the following 16 days of activism, with ambitious engagement targets across a wide group of stakeholders. Your work will bring about demonstrable societal and policy change.
Please see the full job description and person specification attached.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.





