Research communications officer jobs

Are you an experienced and talented communications professional looking for your next challenge? Are you excited to take on a pivotal role which will shape the future of a national charity working on a key social justice issue? Can you use your expertise and experience to raise awareness of hygiene poverty, the charity’s work and bring critical supporters and stakeholders onboard? If this sounds like you and you’re motivated by improving the lives of people across the UK, we’d love to hear from you. 

The Marketing and Communications Manager plays a key role in raising awareness of hygiene poverty and inspiring individuals and corporate partners to act in support of The Hygiene Bank’s mission. This role leads our communications strategy, creates compelling content, manages digital channels, secures regional and national media coverage for the charity, and supports national campaigns and events. You will have the opportunity to work with our exciting portfolio of corporate and brand partners, co-designing joint campaigns and initiatives, and positioning our communications to generate further support and income.You will also play an important role in our End Hygiene Poverty research and campaign partnership with the charity In Kind Direct. 

Working collaboratively across the organisation and with external partners, the postholder ensures our brand integrity and messaging is clear, ethical and impactful, helping to amplify the voices of those experiencing hygiene poverty and strengthen engagement with volunteers, community partners, supporters and the public who share our mission to end hygiene poverty. It is a varied, creative and meaningful role which sits at the heart of our work to ensure everyone has access to the hygiene essentials they need to feel clean, confident, and connected.

The charity is at a critical point in its development as we work to become a major national voice, working closely with others to drive significant change. Our people must be excited by the potential of what lies ahead, enjoy, and thrive in, change. 

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES 

1. Communications Plan and Implementation 

• Develop and implement the annual communications and marketing plan in collaboration with senior leadership. 

• Design communications which meet our objectives, with particular emphasis on raising awareness of hygiene poverty and the charity, securing the support we need and championing and celebrating our partners and stakeholders 

• Ensure communications are accurate, impactful, and aligned with The Hygiene Bank’s mission, values, tone of voice and brand guidelines. 

• Translate complex or sensitive issues related to hygiene poverty into accessible, compelling stories. 

• Provide strategic communications support across teams and projects, including leading on National Hygiene Week, our flagship annual event and our partnerships with leading national brands, such as Boots, Unilever and smol. 

• Provide communications support for our fundraising campaigns and optimise our calls to action across all media. 

• Uphold high ethical and inclusive standards in all messaging and ensure our communications conform with accessibility standards. 

2. Digital Strategy and Implementation 

• Lead digital planning and delivery across our website, email, social media and digital campaigns. 

• Manage digital advertising activity (e.g., paid social, Google Ads), ensuring strong ROI. 

• Lead on the development and maintenance of our website to maximised our impact with audiences, including using SEO and traffic metrics to inform improvements.

• Oversee analytics, reporting and insight‑driven optimisation, using this to guide the work of yourself and the Communications Officer. 

3. Content Creation 

• Produce high quality written, visual and multimedia content for a variety of platforms – including media communications, social media, presentations and speeches and communications collateral to support all our campaigns. 

• Create and update marketing collateral, including leaflets, posters and campaign toolkits. 

• Manage, create and edit supporter newsletters and email communications. 

• Commission and collaborate with designers, photographers and videographers and other external creative resources as required. 

• Develop and hold a library of high-quality creative assets and imagery which support our proposition and share with partners and volunteers as needed. 

4. Ambassadors and Influencers 

•  Build and nurture relationships with ambassadors, influencers and public supporters. 

•  Develop briefs, guidance and campaign plans for influencer activity. 

•  Ensure ambassador messaging aligns with organisational values and priorities. 

•  Identify opportunities to amplify diverse lived experiences and voices. 

5. Events 

• Plan and implement digital and in person events for THB audiences 

• Lead promotional activity for national and regional events, campaigns and awareness moments including those with our brand and corporate partners 

• Support branding and communications needs for in‑person and digital events. 

• Coordinate communications for key campaigns such as National Hygiene Week and major partnership launches. 

• Capture and produce event‑related content (photo, video, social). 

6. External Engagement and media 

• Act as the point person for our collaborative campaign with In Kind Direct (IKD) End Hygiene Poverty, coordinating joint activities and working closely with peers in the charity 

• Collaborate and work with our corporate partners to produce co-branded communications and collateral which protects the integrity of our brand and aligns with our partners. 

• Collaborate with sector organisations to amplify other campaigns and activities in pursuit of shared goals

• Support media relations through press releases, statements, case studies and briefing documents. 

• Work with our external broadcast agency to create compelling broadcast opportunities to amplify our messaging and campaigns 

• Secure local, regional and national coverage for the charity online, and in print 

• Represent The Hygiene Bank in external meetings, partnerships and sector collaborations. 

• Build relationships with community groups, corporate partners and volunteers. 

• Provide campaign assets and messaging for partners to support wider engagement. 

7. Data and Monitoring 

• Monitor communications performance using analytics tools. 

• Prepare monthly reports and recommendations based on performance data. 

• Maintain accurate records of communications outputs, engagement and media coverage. 

• Ensure GDPR‑compliant data handling and responsible content management. 

• Prepare an annual review of communications and learnings as input to future plans. 

8. Administration 

• Manage communications timelines, schedules and project documentation. 

• Coordinate with suppliers, agencies and freelancers, including managing budgets where required. 

• Oversee approval processes for communications materials. 

• Maintain organised filing systems and brand resources. 

9. Team 

• Work collaboratively across teams and with volunteers to support organisation‑wide communications needs. 

• Line manage the Communications Officer, empowering and championing them in their role 

• Provide guidance on messaging, brand use and digital best practice. 

• Adopt a ‘can do’ and responsive attitude to requests from team members. 

• Contribute to an inclusive, supportive and mission‑driven team culture. 

10. Internal Communications 

• Support internal newsletters, updates and team/trustee communications. 

• Working with relevant colleagues, ensure staff and volunteers have consistent, clear and accessible information. 

• Strengthen internal cohesion by supporting cross‑team information flow. 

PERSON SPECIFICATION 

With a strong alignment to The Hygiene Bank’s values, you will have: 

• Outstanding written communication skills across a variety of media, from crafting social media content to producing case studies. 

• A creative mindset, generating new and innovative ways to communicate our work. 

• An appetite for change and continuous learning and improvement. 

• Excellent organisational skills: self‑motivated, disciplined, able to work without close supervision. 

• Ability to work under pressure and manage multiple projects simultaneously. 

• Ability to represent the charity and its mission in a clear, emotive and factual way. 

• Strong interpersonal skills: able to build and nurture relationships with volunteers, corporate partners and community groups. 

• An enthusiastic, can‑do attitude; a self-starter and a team player with a flair for building relationships. 

This job description and person specification outlines the major components of the role but is not intended to be exhaustive. 

EXPERIENCE 

With a strong track record of roles in communications and/or marketing, you will be able to demonstrate:

• Proficiency in a range of communications tools, such as Canva, MailChimp, Wordpress, Google Adwords, Adobe, Microsoft Suites, Hootsuite, etc. 

• Strong copywriting skills for a variety of audiences and formats. 

• Ability to produce marketing and communications materials for multiple audiences across different platforms. 

• Ability to communicate effectively with diverse audiences and stakeholders. 

• Strong IT skills including CRM systems, PowerBI, social media channels, Wordpress, Google Analytics and related tools. 

Please note that applicants need to be resident in the UK and have the right to work in the UK. 

The Hygiene Bank is committed to promoting equality of opportunity and values diversity of culture among our staff and volunteers.  We actively welcome applications that will help increase the diversity of our workforce, welcoming applications from those with disabilities and from minority groups and from different backgrounds and experiences. 

How to apply 
Closing date: Thursday 30th April @9am. Please note that we are a small team and will be reviewing applications as they are received. To avoid disappointment, you are advised to submit your application as soon as possible as we reserve the right to close the vacancy early if a high volume of applications are received. This is to ensure that we can manage application levels whilst maintaining a positive candidate experience. Unfortunately, once a vacancy has closed, we are unable to consider further applications.

Interview dates: from 8th- 15th May 2026

The Partnership Development Team at Alzheimer’s Research UK prides itself on delivering sector-leading partnerships. We are a friendly, collaborative, and ambitious team driven by our goal to fund vital dementia research and ultimately find a cure for dementia. 

Our Partnership Development Officer is responsible for establishing and managing some of our corporate partnerships under the guidance of the Partnership Development Manager (PDM). This role will hold and develop strong long-term relationships with key stakeholders within some of our highest-level corporate donors.

You’ll have some experience in relationship management and project management skills, as well as attention to detail and an organised approach to a busy and varied workload. These skills will have been developed in either a charity or corporate role.

The Partnership Development Team sits within the Corporate Fundraising function, which is part of the Philanthropy and Partnerships Directorate. We collaborate closely with all teams across the charity, so communication, collaboration, and strong relationship skills are essential.

We are lucky to work with some fantastic UK-based and international companies who recognise our passion, creativity, and ability to work flexibly to achieve their CSR aims while supporting ARUK’s strategic goals. Awesome brands like The Perfume Shop, Omaze, Warburtons and Cadbury are just some of the organisations that have joined our mission to find a cure for dementia. 

Key Responsibilities:

Under the guidance of the PDM, hold responsibility for the account management for our corporate supporters. Acting as the day-to-day contact point for the company and its staff, overseeing all partnership activity, and ensuring the highest standard of supporter care at all times.

· Work closely with the PDM to implement new partnership set-ups, create and execute partnership engagement and fundraising calendars and reporting methods.

· Respond promptly and professionally to your accounts, ensuring high-level customer service is maintained from across the charity.

· With the support of the PDM, create and support Partner Charity Committees and Ambassador networks.

· Build and maintain strong relationships with internal and external stakeholders, including Senior Leadership Team.

· Effectively communicate and influence internal and external stakeholders.

· Offer extensive, creative fundraising ideas to support partner companies, using support from the PDM and the wider Partnership Development Team.

· Assist with the organisation of innovative, engaging corporate fundraising events and attend events where relevant.

· Ensure partnership activity follows policies, procedures and regulations; and that each partnership follows the legal and accounting rules ARUK has in place.

· Ensure effective management of all partnership activity, clearly communicating progress.

· Support the PDM to identify and pursue opportunities to broaden and lengthen relationships, creating multifaceted partnerships.

· Together with the PDM, work closely with the communications team to create clear partnership communication plans and ensure corporate fundraising press opportunities are maximised and the impact is communicated clearly to the partner company.

· Achieve agreed financial and non-financial targets, to include partnership income and stewardship goals. Monitor and track quarterly changes against financial goals and ensure this is effectively communicated both externally and internally to inform quarterly re-forecasts.

· Work proactively with employees at all levels within the companies you are supporting to maximise potential income.

Support the PDM and Senior Partnership Development Manager (SPDM) in executing the corporate fundraising strategy for ARUK, to increase the team’s income.
 

· Work with the PDM to ensure that the most appropriate use is made of internal and external contacts to support the work of ARUK, identifying networking, influencing and engagement opportunities.

· Ensure the operational delivery of the Partnership Development Team’s strategy through your partnerships.

· Ensure new business prospects within partnerships are identified and passed to the New Business Team.

· Undertake project work as requested by the PDM to increase engagement with ARUK from within our corporate partners and develop Alzheimer’s Research UK’s offering to our partners. 

· Share any learnings with the team.​

Represent the charity professionally in a high-level corporate context
 

· When representing the charity externally, influence and engage external contacts at all levels to maximise corporate fundraising potential.

· Maintain up-to-date knowledge of developments within the dementia research field.

· Communicate confidently about the research we are funding and dementia/ARUK more broadly. Including presenting to large audiences.

Knowledge, skills and experience needed:

· Building and maintaining high-level relationships through networking and influence both internally and externally. 

· Confidence working with Word, Excel, PowerPoint and Outlook.

· Ability to ensure effective reporting with partnerships when tracking charity income via various sources, including our CRM system.

· Ability to execute projects from beginning to end under the guidance of a line manager.

· Experience in tracking income and identifying any risks or upside in target attainment.

· Good account management and relationship management skills in either a charity or corporate role; transferable sales or marketing skills also relevant.

· Effective planning, prioritisation and organisational skills with excellent attention to detail.

· Strong communication skills, with the ability and confidence to present to corporate audiences.

· You work well as part of a team but are proactive and can work independently.

· A confident and friendly manner; would feel at ease representing the charity to high-level external contacts.

· Willingness and ability to travel independently in the UK and to work outside of regular office hours when needed.

Additional Information:

Ways of working:

As part of our Agile ways of working you will be required to work approximately 2 days a week from the office, which is subject to the requirements of the role and the business needs. Flexibility on where you work can be split between working from home and our office.

Roles that are classed as part of the Agile ways of working are not able to claim any costs for Mileage/Travel on Public Transport, Accommodation and/or Meals.  This includes when attending the office for various meetings/events.

Our Office: Our office is at 3 Riverside, Granta Park, Great Abington, Cambridge, CB21 6AD. 

Salary: Circa £32,000 per annum, plus benefits

Please download the Vacancy Pack on our website for more information.

The closing date for applications is the 26th April 2026, with interviews being arrange once shortlisting has been completed. Please indicate in your covering letter if you are unable to attend an interview on a certain date. We would encourage you to submit your application at the earliest opportunity, as on occasion we may have to bring forward the interview date and/or the closing date based on the needs of the business. Although a possibility, this will only happen in exceptional circumstances. Please indicate in your covering letter if you are unable to attend an interview on a certain date.

We value diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive culture where everyone can be themselves and reach their full potential.  We actively encourage applications from people of all backgrounds and cultures, particularly from those in the global majority, those with disabilities, men and those from the LGBTQIA+ community. Any offer of employment is however subject to you having the right to work in the UK.

As part of our commitment to being an inclusive employer and ensuring fairness and consistency in our selection process, we will handle your CV and application with the utmost confidentiality. Should you require any adjustments at either the application or interview stage, please contact us via our website.

How to apply: Please create an online account using our Online Recruitment Platform which can be accessed through our Job Vacancies page. You will be able to attach your CV to your application and track the status of your application.

About Alzheimer’s Research UK: Alzheimer's Research UK is the UK's leading dementia research charity. Our mission is to accelerate progress towards a cure.  Today 1 in 2 people will be impacted by dementia, either through caring for a loved one, developing it themselves or tragically both. But there is hope. 

Join Age UK Kensington and Chelsea at an exciting moment of growth as our new Fundraising Officer, where you’ll bring energy, creativity and initiative to a small team with big ambitions.

This is a varied and hands-on role within a small team. You will be confident building relationships with donors and supporters, supporting events and writing clear, persuasive fundraising content. You may already have experience across more than one fundraising area and will be keen to build your skills further in a broad fundraising role.

About us

We’re a vibrant, values-led local charity and proud partner of the Age UK network. Every day, we work alongside older people to design and deliver services that promote wellbeing, independence and dignity. From supporting people to manage their health, to tackling loneliness and influencing local policy, we put people and communities at the heart of everything we do.
As we look to the future, we’re focused on innovation, growth and lasting impact — building stronger partnerships, diversifying our income, and creating new ways to reach more people across our borough.

Take a look at the full job / person spec enclosed for a full breakdown of the role and responsibilities.

We will be interviewing on a rolling basis, so please avoid waiting until the advert closes before applying! We reserve the right to close the advert earlier than advertised.
Due to capacity we may not be able to respond to unsuccessful applications received. 

We look forward to hearing from you!

About Kinship

We are Kinship. The leading kinship care charity in England and Wales. We’re here for kinship carers – friends or family who step up to raise a child when their parents aren’t able to. 

Together, let’s commit to change for kinship families.

About the role

The Research Officer supports Kinship in building a strong and coordinated evidence base about kinship families, and ensures our influencing work is grounded in real experience.

The role supports the design, delivery and communication of high-quality research, insights and evaluation that shapes policy, practice and service development. It also supports the coordination and operational delivery of research and practice activity, helping ensure projects, networks and events run effectively and that insights are shared across the organisation and the wider sector.

They will work closely with colleagues across the organisation, including Policy, Programmes, Peer Support and Communications. It will ensure that research and insight are gathered and used consistently and that the experiences of kinship carers, particularly those from underserved communities, are central to our work. This role could be hybrid or remote.

Key responsibilities include:

• Design and deliver qualitative and quantitative research that improves understanding of kinship families’ needs, experiences and outcomes.

• Lead data collection through surveys, interviews, focus groups and desk research.

• Carry out analysis using suitable methods to produce accurate and meaningful insight.

• Ensure research reflects the diversity of kinship carers, including carers from ethnic minority communities, mixed heritage families, informal kinship carers and carers experiencing additional barriers.

• Maintain strong ethical standards and follow GDPR requirements.

• Developing and supporting participatory research methods with carers, children and young people.

• Support evaluation of Kinship services including peer support, training and digital programmes.

• Develop tools and approaches that help gather feedback and evidence of outcomes.

• Analyse programme data to highlight trends, gaps and opportunities.

• Provide evidence that strengthens Kinship policy positions and external influencing activity.

• Contribute data and insight to briefings, consultation responses and reports.

• Support opportunities for kinship carers to participate in research in a respectful and inclusive way.

• Manage the Kinship Professionals’ Network and the Kinship Care Researchers’ Network, working with the Practice Lead to plan and schedule meetings, coordinate agendas, record and minute meetings and share insights across the organisation. 

• Support the planning and delivery of research and practice events, from consultations to knowledge exchange events.

Essential requirements include:

• Experience completing mixed methods research including design, fieldwork, analysis and reporting.

• Experience working in a research, evaluation or insight role in a charity, academic or public sector setting.

• Experience producing accessible research outputs for different audiences.

• Experience engaging with underrepresented communities and understanding barriers to participation.

• Experience of kinship care or social care research in the UK or comparable settings

• Excellent project management skills with an ability to manage multiple projects and tasks with accuracy and attention to detail.

• Strong analytical and data interpretation skills with experience of R or equivalent statistical languages.

What we offer you:

• Flexible working - we understand how important it is to balance family and work life.
• ​30 days annual leave, plus bank holidays (1 April to 31 March) pro rata (3 to be taken at Christmas shutdown)
• Employee Assistance Programme (24/7 confidential advice line and counselling)
• Charity Worker Discounts.

Key dates:

• Application deadline: 11.59pm on Sunday 19 April 2026
• First interview: w/c 27 April 2026 (online)
• Second interview: w/c 4 May 2026 (if required)

How to apply:

Please apply for the role of Research Officer by sending a CV (max 2 pages) and cover letter (max 1 page). The deadline is 11.59pm on Sunday 19 April 2026. Any applications arriving after the closing date will not be considered for shortlisting unless there are exceptional reasons. Please ensure you have read the application timelines.

Kinship is committed to championing equality, diversity and inclusion.  We believe our work is greatly enhanced by the varied backgrounds, experiences and views represented within our teams.  We aim to create inclusive teams, celebrate differences and encourage everyone to join us and be their true self at work.   We therefore encourage applications from anyone who fits our values, whatever their religion or belief, sex, gender identity, race, age, sexuality or disability and are actively seeking candidates that can bring real innovation and commitment to us. 

Harrogate, North Yorkshire – with some travel across the Yorkshire region

We offer hybrid working.

About Us

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

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

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

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

The Benefits

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

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

The Role

The Communications Manager (to Executive) is responsible for what, where and how the Chief Executive, Directors (collective referred to as ‘Directors’ from this point forward) and members of the Board of Trustees communicate about the charity to employees, volunteers and supporters.

You will enable charity leaders to convey and reinforce consistent messages to build reputation and trust in both the charity and the leadership of the charity.

As Communications Manager (to Executive), you will be responsible for Directors’ communication about the charity and its:

- purpose

- brand

- public affairs

- reputation (including crisis management and responses to complaints)

The role holder will help to identify communication gaps and opportunity, working with Directors to address these through a communication plan.

You will plan, agree, draft and support Directors to deliver proactive thought-leadership.

Specifically, you will:

· Develop and agree a bespoke internal/external communication plan for Directors, reflecting both their shared, collective role in leading the charity.

· Optimise existing, and develop new, communication channels to enable Directors to reach new audiences and reinforce messages to existing audiences.

· Identify corporate developments, projects and initiatives that will benefit from Director communication and work with project/initiative leader(s) to ensure a planned, aligned and integrated approach to key messages and their delivery.

Brand

· Ensure the charity’s brand, strategy and purpose is accurately and proactively reflected in all messaging and content which quotes or is on behalf of Directors.

· Reflect the charity’s tone-of-voice, taking a plain-English approach to communication by avoiding technical terms, jargon and acronyms.

Process and Governance

· Ensure Directors are advised about potential PR and communication opportunities and can consider and input before they are committed to.

· For proactive communication, diarise approval time in Directors’ diaries and provide Executive briefings and content well in advance (giving weeks’ rather than days’ notice) so that there is plenty of time for Directors to review, adapt and approve before the deadline or event.

· Where reactive opportunities (e.g. tv and radio interviews) are available, ensure the relevant Director has adequate notice and time to prepare, negotiating longer timeframes on their behalf where this is possible and necessary.

About You

To be considered for this role, you will need:

· To be educated to degree level or equivalent.

· To have achieved a recognised professional qualification which demonstrates an ongoing commitment to learning and development.

· To have demonstrable experience of effective PR management, preferably with a not-for-profit organisation.

· To be experienced and confident working with and advising an organisation’s most senior leaders.

· To have clear experience of having embraced organisational change and transformation, and of helping colleagues and team members to do likewise.

· To have extensive experience of successfully prioritising projects, activities and work so that those activities that will have greatest strategic impact are delivered first and foremost.

· To have proven communications acumen with the ability to manage a budget.

· To have excellent collaboration, prioritisation and communication skills.

· To have Integrity and discretion when handling privileged information.

· To have the ability to plan own workload and manage that of others, on time.

· To have excellent written and verbal communication and influencing skills, with a strong background presenting complex information, simply and effectively to a range of audiences.

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

· To be a dedicated and respected team player creating effective working relationships with others.

· To be highly comfortable working with challenging and changing environments.

Application

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

To apply please submit a CV and cover letter outlining your suitability for the role to Claire Wooldridge, Head of People, before 30 April 2026. Please read our privacy notice before applying.

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

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

Purpose of the Role:

The Senior Research, Policy and Influencing Manager will play a pivotal role in driving Cerebra’s mission to influence national and local policy and practice. You will lead on the translation of research into actionable policy recommendations, develop strategic partnerships, advocate for systemic change and influence, persuade and engage with policy makers to improve outcomes for children with neurological conditions and their families. Alongside this you will work with the Research and Information team on Cerebra’s research contracts and the development and dissemination of information.

This is a senior role requiring strategic vision, strong analytical and communication skills, and an ability to build influence across government, academia, and the third sector.

Key Areas of Responsibility:

1. Policy and Influencing  

• Identify opportunities to influence national and local policy agendas, including legislation, guidance, and funding priorities related to childhood disability and neurological conditions.
• Develop accessible and compelling policy briefings, consultation responses, reports, speeches, and presentations for a range of stakeholders, including MPs, government officials, sector partners and the public.
• Monitor policy developments across the neuro-diverse landscape and lead on timely, evidence-led responses.
• Analyse data, trends and policy developments to produce insights and recommendations.
• Translate complex ideas into clear, persuasive communications that support positive change.
• Ensure our policy positions reflect the real experiences and insights of the neuro-diverse children and families we support.
• Develop and deliver Cerebra’s policy and influencing strategy, ensuring alignment with organisational goals and research priorities.
• Develop and deliver influencing campaigns in partnership with Communications team.
• Work closely with the Communications Team by contributing to the drafting of responses to media enquiries on our policy and influencing work and act as the media contact if required.
• Liaise with the Legal Rights Team to assess the impact of current or proposed policies in terms of their actual or potential effects on children with neurological conditions at both national and local levels, and for their input into consultation responses.

2. Engagement and Relationship Building

• Build and maintain strong strategic relationships with decision-makers across government departments, policymakers, NHS bodies, local authorities, professional associations, and sector partners.
• Represent Cerebra at meetings and events, including engaging with MPs, civil servants, policy forums, advisory groups, and cross-sector coalitions and other key influencers, or brief the CEO or Directors if attending.
• Work closely with internal teams to ensure our policy and influencing work is grounded in practice and informed by those delivering services.
• Work closely with the Communications Team to ensure consistent, impactful messaging.

3. Research and Information

• With one of our Lead Research Officers leading, you will oversee the tendering process and delivery of our research contracts.
• Working with our Information Development Officer to ensure that we maintain our PIF Tick accreditation for our information resources.
• Carry out high-quality research and analysis.
• Use findings from Cerebra-funded and external research to produce policy briefs, consultation responses, and evidence-based recommendations.
• Alongside our Lead Research Officers carry out horizon scanning to identify emerging trends, challenges, and opportunities in child health, neurodiversity, and public service delivery.

4. Budgeting, monitoring and forecasting

• Working with the team and Director to set income and expenditure budgets for Corporate, Philanthropy, Legacy and Trust & Foundations to assist with any funding applications.
• Monitoring and reporting on income and expenditure and KPIs throughout the year.
• Providing quarterly income and expenditure re-forecasts.
• Ensuring all relevant information is recorded in line with charity, fundraising and data legislation and best practice.

5. Line Management

• Line management responsibilities for a small team, currently comprising of 3 staff.
• Be responsible for the day-to-day management of the team.
• Complete regular supervision and team meetings.
• Provide effective performance management to the team.
• Promote a positive and inclusive team culture aligned with Cerebra’s values.

6. General

• Monitor and evaluate the impact the areas of work that leading on.
• Support collaboration across the different Cerebra teams.
• Experience using Client Relationship Management (CRM) systems or similar digital tools for recording and tracking work.
• Uphold Cerebra’s Data Protection Policy and all relevant confidentiality and safeguarding policies.
• Carry out any other reasonable duties in line with the needs of the team and organisation.

Please see attached job description for person specification.

Mission Without Borders (MWB) is a Christian charity supporting over 10,000 children and 2,000 families living in poverty across Eastern Europe. As we embark on an ambitious new 5‑year strategy, we’re investing in the growth of our UK team and we’re looking for a creative, proactive Marketing & Communications Officer to help expand our reach, raise awareness, and inspire supporters across the UK.

In this exciting new role, you’ll shape and deliver our marketing and communications strategy across both digital and traditional channels. From running targeted digital campaigns and enhancing our online presence to crafting compelling stories and to building relationships with Christian media and, you'll play a key part in growing awareness, engagement and income.

We’re seeking someone with strong digital marketing experience, excellent storytelling and relationship building skills, with an understanding of the UK Christian landscape. If you’re passionate about using your skills to make a real impact, and to help bring hope for vulnerable children and families across Eastern Europe, we’d love to hear from you.

This is an exciting opportunity to join the dynamic, multi-disciplinary team at the Centre of expertise on child sexual abuse (CSA Centre) as one of the Principal Researcher and Evaluation Officers. This is a key role within the CSA Centre, central to our ambition to develop, understand and embed evidence-informed improvements in the response to child sexual abuse.

About the role:

The CSA Centre aims to inform and improve policy and practice at local and national levels by identifying, generating and sharing high quality evidence on what works to prevent and tackle child sexual abuse, and our extensive research, evaluation and monitoring activity is central to that mission.

As Principal Research and Evaluation Officers, you will lead a programme of research and evaluation, working closely with other research and evaluation colleagues and our team of multi-agency Practice Improvement Advisers. This is a unique opportunity to develop and deliver programmes of research and evaluation that support sustainable improvements to knowledge, understanding and practice, driving real change in the response to child sexual abuse across England and Wales.

We are looking for an experienced professional with strong skills in designing, planning and managing research and evaluation projects, in the field of child sexual abuse, or related field. You should be confident using a range of methodologies, including relevant specialist research and data analysis software and analytical approaches, and able to present findings clearly for different audiences.

We particularly welcome applications from researchers/evaluators with strong quantitative skills and experience working with large datasets or administrative data. Experience in statistical analysis, data linkage, advanced modelling or applied quantitative evaluation would be an advantage.

You will oversee multiple projects at any given time, ensuring effective planning, prioritisation and timely delivery. The role involves working with internal teams, external stakeholders and where appropriate commissioned research partners. You will contribute to high‑quality publications, guidance and resources, and support colleagues to embed evidence into practice and organisational learning.

As a Principal Research and Evaluation Officer, you will play a key role helping to prevent and tackle child sexual abuse alongside the work of our colleagues across practice, policy, communications and training. This is important work - the CSA Centre conservatively estimates that one in ten children will experience some form of child sexual abuse before age of 16, and our ambitious programmes seek to improve the knowledge, skills and confidence of professionals (social workers, teachers, social workers, doctors etc.) in identifying and responding to child sexual abuse.

CSA Centre roles are currently funded until 31 March 2027, in line with our current grant funding arrangements. This will be reviewed in late 2026, as future funding for the CSA Centre from 2027/28 onwards is confirmed.

About us

We are the Centre of expertise on child sexual abuse (CSA Centre). Our aim is to reduce the impact of child sexual abuse through improved prevention and better response. To tackle child sexual abuse we must better understand its causes, scope, scale and impact.

Established since 2017, we are a multi-disciplinary team that is funded by the Home Office, hosted by Barnardo's and we work closely with key partners from academic institutions, local authorities, health, education, police and the voluntary sector. We're proudly independent and our team will challenge any barriers, assumptions, taboos and ways of working that prevent us from increasing our understanding and improving our approach to child sexual abuse.

We bring about change by:

• Collating and analysing existing research, policy, practice and the real experiences of those affected, and filling the gaps we identify with new research, insights and analysis;
• Using that evidence and insight to challenge and improve existing policy and practice, develop new approaches and increase everyone's knowledge and confidence to more effectively tackle the issue.

This role is home based with regular travel required, usually to London.

Salary:

The CSA Centre acknowledges that tackling child sexual abuse can feel challenging but is incredibly rewarding and positive when making a difference. Our open working environment ensures that there is support for all employees, across the team and with access to a therapist, if needed. Please do get in touch if you would like to discuss any aspect of this further.

We believe in creating equality of opportunity in the workplace and supporting people to manage their work-life balance; we are therefore are open to offering flexible working arrangements.

The CSA Centre is committed to having a diverse and inclusive workforce. We actively encourage applications from disabled candidates and candidates from Black, Asian and minority ethnic backgrounds, as they are currently under-represented at the CSA Centre.

When completing your application please refer to your skills, knowledge and experience in relation to the Person Specification and Job Description.

Please note due to the high volume of applications for some posts, this advert might close before the displayed closing date. We recommend that you apply for this role as soon as possible.

Job Purpose

The Research Programme Manager will have a strong grounding in scientific research, expertise in grant management, and report to the Director of Research. 

The role’s core responsibility will be to lead on the implementation and delivery of large-scale collaborative programmes and funding schemes. The post holder will have a visible presence within the research community acting as an important point of contact between partner organisations, researchers, committee members, peer reviewers and the charity. They will be expected to keep updated with the latest research developments in order to use strategic scientific expertise and judgement in the ongoing development and improvement of the Foundation’s grant funding schemes.

They will be responsible for the successful delivery of a large portfolio of active projects by working closely with others in the team to ensure all awards are expertly administered, monitored, evaluated and reported against, ensuring the outputs are of the highest quality and supporting the charities activities. The post-holder will identify opportunities to communicate the progress or impact of the work we fund and work with the communications team to develop compelling communications for our supporters.

Key responsibilities:

Grant Funding Programme

● Lead on the setup of large-scale collaborative research programmes ensuring robust peer review, effective contracting and close collaboration with funding partners;

● Lead on the management of multiple grant funding schemes, as well as ad-hoc applications that come to the Foundation;

● Oversee the smooth running of application rounds, peer review and ensure that funding committees function in line with AMRC guidance;

● Be the main point of contact for the AMRC with regards to research management;

● Support the ongoing implementation and development of the Foundation’s Grant Management Software, ensuring the research team are using the platform effectively;

● Manage project set-up including contracting, the development of detailed project plans, including go/no-go milestones and budgets;

● Work with the other Research Programme Managers to oversee the research programme budget including planning, monitoring and forecasting; work with the Directors of Research and Finance to ensure that accurate research finance information is available for organisational budgeting and planning;

● Seek opportunities to improve the Foundation’s grant funding schemes to increase the number and quality of applications received year on year, ensuring funding projects support the delivery of the Foundation’s research strategy;

● Monitor any developments or innovations across the sector and implement changes to maintain a high-quality impactful research funding programme.

Project Portfolio and Impact

● Oversee the delivery of large-scale collaborative research programmes including:

• Leading on management on behalf of funding partnerships

● Manage and oversee project delivery of the Foundation’s active project portfolio by:

• Building and managing relationships with award holders and attending site visits;
• Approving grant payments and managing the change process for any project amendments;
• Ensuring project progress is effectively monitored and reported against;
• Identifying opportunities for and approving any project communications.

● Lead on the development and implementation of an Impact Evaluation Framework, to monitor and evaluate the impact of the research we fund.

● Lead on the development of an annual impact report to demonstrate the impact of the research we fund.

Line Management

● Provide line management responsibilities to the Research Officer, supporting their performance and ongoing development.

General Responsibilities

● Support the Director of Research to deliver the Foundation’s research strategy;

● Support more junior members of the team through training and mentoring;

● Contribute to the team being proactive and supportive, and working effectively and efficiently to achieve agreed objectives;

● Support the development of research communications activities, working closely with our communications team.

● Contribute to the development and maintenance of strong internal relationships across the charity, working specifically with the Fundraising Team to support income generation;

● Support the Director of Research in the development of updates for the Board of Trustees and other groups such as our Scientific Advisors;

● Keep updated with the latest scientific developments in the field, attend conferences and build strong relationships with MND experts and other relevant stakeholders;

● Represent the Foundation at external scientific meetings and conferences;

● Undertake other work as required by the Director of Research.

Skills and experience required:

● Educated to PhD level or with equivalent experience in a science subject relevant to MND;

● Experience of research management, including the management of grant schemes, preferably with experience of using Flexi-Grant;

● Experience of research communications, including the ability to disseminate complex scientific information and present it to non-technical audiences;

● Experience of liaising with senior individuals in a variety of organisations with an ability to create favourable working relationships;

● Proven project management skills, with the ability to manage multiple projects at the same time;

● A great communicator, with excellent written and oral skills and the ability to maintain relationships with a wide variety of individuals, including those within the Foundation, researchers and clinicians, relevant organisations and industry bodies, MND patients, and other MND charities;

● Self-motivated, proactive and able to work using own initiative;

● Organised, with a proven ability to successfully manage a broad spectrum of tasks, deadlines and individuals;

● Motivated to make a real difference for those living with MND and future generations.

Working Pattern: Full time, permanent, home-based with regular travel across the UK

Salary: Circa £45,000 dependent on experience

Direct reports: Research Officer, 1 FTE

Closing date: Friday 8th May

Interviews: Week commencing 11th May

We are looking for a Director of Communications (External Relations)

We are looking for a communications leader to help us transform Nesta’s impact, reach and influence. We're already an ambitious, award-winning, multidisciplinary team, and now we're looking for someone to help us elevate our work to the next level.

The UK information environment is changing rapidly and our team is midway through a period of reform and transformation to adapt. We want to be industry-leading in the way we communicate - on the cutting edge of testing and experimenting with new formats and tactics, constantly iterating our practice in response to an information environment that is being constantly reshaped by AI, changing political communications and new technology. This is where you come in.

This role offers the mandate to experiment with a suite of high-impact products that are ready for their next stage of growth. You will play a central role in developing our new podcast, expanding our collection of data-driven stories, and testing long-form video as a way to translate deep research into compelling visual narratives. We care about micro communities as much as the traditional broadcast tools, and you’ll lead a stable of products designed to reach policy audiences. Alongside this, you will help to spearhead the advocacy and influencing activity that will deliver success in our three missions, and work more broadly to support BIT and all other parts of the Nesta Group.

You will blend exceptional political acumen with a proven track record of delivering policy and advocacy campaigns that have a tangible impact. You will be a trusted advisor, adept at providing strategic counsel across multidisciplinary teams while fostering an empowering, best-in-class culture. Beyond managing projects and campaigns, you will invest in our people, ensuring our talented team has the support and clarity to perform at their best.

We are looking for a leader who isn't satisfied with the status quo and is ready to take our collective impact to the next level. Five years into our strategy, Nesta’s ideas are gaining significant influence - now we need you to raise our reach and profile to the same level.

What you’ll be doing:

• Lead the design and delivery of integrated campaigns with policy and advocacy objectives, using the right mix of channels, the highest standards of creative execution and the most effective messaging. Support the team to navigate the UK political and news agenda, identifying and securing the most effective moments for our work to exert influence.
• Lead the full range of policy communications across Nesta (working with and beyond the communications team with missions, units, subject specialists and senior leaders to bring coherence to our content and activity). Lead on policy-facing products, from blogs to policy briefings, podcasts to newsletters.
• Oversee delivery of broader communications activity, working across the organisation to form project teams, set priorities and tactics. Elevate the quality of our external output so all of our communications meet a consistently high bar for excellence. Ensure that all of our activity is delivered with the right mix of creativity, professionalism and speed to maximise success.
• Distil complex policy and research into powerful narratives, ensuring our strategic messaging resonates and persuades target audiences and that is used consistently and coherently across all of our activity. Manage our suite of editorial products and ensure our content is sharp, timely, and directly aligned with our advocacy objectives.
• Provide authoritative communications strategic counsel across teams, acting as a trusted advisor to senior leaders on complex communication challenges and reputational issues
• Provide functional (direct) leadership of our policy communications, media relations and data journalism functions.

You will also work across all of the Communications department to:

• Drive forward new approaches to advocacy and influencing that organisations like Nesta need to adopt in response to the changing information environment
• Look across all activity being conducted and identify and act on opportunities for new content streams, activities or partnerships that support our strategic communications goals
• Spot opportunities to do more with our existing channels and campaigns, finding ways to extend their value and impact
• Troubleshoot and support where a project or campaign is at risk of failure, either because of differing views on execution, changing objectives, or missed deadlines
• Mentor and evolve a talented communications team, providing the leadership and vision necessary to take our collective impact to the next level.

What we’re looking for:

• Significant leadership experience in external affairs, communications, or press, specifically within an advocacy-focused environment.
• Exceptional strategic skills, with a history of delivering multi-channel campaigns that build genuine profile and influence.
• A deep understanding of the UK political and news agenda and wider information environment, with a demonstrated ability to navigate complex policy landscapes.
• The ability to provide high-level strategic counsel, acting as a trusted advisor to senior leaders on complex communication challenges and reputational issues.
• A genuine love of communications, with experience of exploring new approaches to advocacy and influencing that organisations like Nesta need to adopt in response to the changing information environment
• The ability to craft and embed strategic messaging that distills complex ideas into clear, authoritative narratives for diverse audiences.
• An accomplished writer who has successfully managed high-level editorial functions and maintained a high bar for content.
• Sharp media instincts and creative flair, with a proven ability to spot and shape stories that capture media interest.
• A grounded leader and people manager who knows how to motivate teams and cultivate a high-performing culture.

As with all members of the Nesta Group communications team, the postholder will also be at their best working in a collaborative, fast-paced environment, have a flexible approach and an appetite for taking on new tasks and challenges. They will also have excellent written and verbal communication skills and a proven ability to write for a range of different audiences.

What we offer:

Salary: £91,500 plus an array of benefits, including a generous pension scheme, private medical insurance, dental insurance, the ability to buy and sell annual leave, and more

Location: This role is based in Blackfriars, London, hybrid working arrangement with a minimum of two days in the office

Term: Permanent

Hours: This is a full-time role but we offer a range of flexible working arrangements and encourage our people to take advantage of them. Many do.

Reports to: Group Executive Director of Communications

Making an application

To apply for this role, please submit a CV and a cover letter that states three reasons why you are a great candidate for the role before 8:00am on the 27th of April 2026.

Interviews will take place w/c 4th of May 2026.

About Nesta

Nesta is a research and innovation foundation that designs, tests and scales solutions for the biggest challenges of our time.

Driven by a vision to improve the lives of millions of people, our focus up to 2030 is on three missions: breaking the link between family background and life chances, halving obesity and cutting household carbon emissions.

We work with partners across the public, private and third sectors to develop high-potential solutions and test them as they evolve, drawing on deep expertise in qualitative and quantitative research, data science, behavioural science and design.

Once confident in the effectiveness of a solution, we are relentless in the pursuit of scale. We create and make the case for ambitious national policy proposals, develop consumer-facing products and services, spin out and support commercial ventures and harness the power of the arts to shape national narratives.

We extend our impact through two specialised units that help others to solve complex problems and achieve their missions. BIT applies a deep understanding of human behaviour to help clients achieve their goals. Challenge Works designs and runs challenge prizes to spark innovation in science, technology and society.

Together, we are building a powerful ecosystem for innovation that delivers proven solutions to create lasting, positive change.

At Nesta, we believe that a diverse workforce leads to an organisation that is more innovative, more creative and gets better results.

We want our workforce to represent the diversity of the people and communities we serve. We also want our workplace to be one where different experiences, expertise and perspectives are valued, and where everyone is encouraged to grow and develop.

This means that when we are recruiting, we actively seek to reach a diverse pool of candidates. It also means that we are happy to consider any reasonable adjustments that potential employees may need to in order to be successful.

We recognise the importance of a good balance between work and home life, so we do everything we can to accommodate flexible working, including working from home, compressed or part-time hours, job shares and other arrangements.

Please just let us know in your application or at any stage throughout the process (and beyond) if these are options you’d like to explore.

The Living Wage Foundation is seeking an experienced and driven Senior Media and Communications Manager to join our team for a 12-month contract. This is an exciting opportunity for a highly organised and proactive communications professional with a strong background in media relations, public messaging, and team leadership. The ideal candidate will be experienced and confident in working to tight deadlines, responding to last-minute changes, and prioritising competing demands in a high-profile environment. They will be motivated to amplify the Living Wage Foundation’s mission of tackling low pay and insecure work.

The postholder will lead all media, messaging, and external affairs work, developing and implementing a proactive media strategy that supports our mission and key campaigns, such as Living Wage Week and the annual Rates announcement. As a skilled media professional, you will oversee all communications outputs, ensuring consistency and strategic alignment, while delivering media training and refining key messaging to maximise reach and impact. 

In this role, you will be instrumental in advancing our political engagement efforts, building cross-party support and working with political leaders, mayoral teams, and other key stakeholders to promote our initiatives. You’ll manage two direct reports (Events Manager and Media Manager) who each hold line management responsibilities, and you will play a critical role within our Senior Management Team, collaborating closely with the Head of Communications to shape the overall direction of our communications work. This role will work closely with Citizens UK colleagues, including the Citizens UK communications team on cross-organisational priorities.  You will report to the Head of Communications.

As a senior leader, you will be responsible for managing and allocating part of the communications team budget, expanding team capacity, and driving the team’s effectiveness. In collaboration with other senior managers, you will help foster a culture that values creativity, innovation, and strategic impact.

Our Communications Officer will play an essential role at a key moment for IVAR, with communications at the heart of our new strategy. Charities are facing mounting pressures and ongoing complexities, and IVAR’s work has potential for the greatest impact. We are looking for someone who will help us meet this potential: working together with the Director of Communications to make our research clear, accessible and compelling; with the aim of sparking conversations; inspiring action; and strengthening movements like our Open and Trusting network. We expect you to bring creativity, energy and curiosity to how we tell stories, explore new tools and formats, and connect more people with IVAR’s mission.

This is a hands-on role in a small but mighty team. If you thrive on combining creativity with delivery, enjoy working collaboratively, and are motivated by strengthening the voluntary sector, we’d love to hear from you.

Strategic Programmes Research Executive

We have established a number of high‑profile strategic programmes to drive progress towards a cure. Most recently, we launched the Dementia Frontiers Fund, an ambitious global initiative empowering researchers to tackle the most urgent and complex questions in dementia.

We now have an exciting opportunity for a Research Executive to support the ongoing delivery of our major strategic programmes, providing essential administrative support to ensure their successful delivery, as well as contributing to the development and set‑up of new programmes of work.

This role sits within the Strategic Programmes team in the Research Directorate, an ambitious, supportive and friendly team that funds the best research to transform the lives of people affected by all forms of dementia. We are looking for someone who is highly organised with a good eye for detail, excellent communication skills, and is excited to support our mission.

Key Responsibilities:

Programme Management and Administration

· Work across the Strategic Programmes team and Partnerships function to provide administrative support associated with the delivery of ARUK’s strategic programmes. In particular:

· Support the ongoing management and delivery of the Dementia Frontiers Fund, acting as the central coordination point and primary contact for business administration activities and providing secretariat support as required.

· Manage the Dementia Frontiers Fund email inbox answering queries from researchers and grant awardees promptly and professionally.

· Support the monitoring of the Dementia Frontiers Fund by scheduling progress check-in meetings with awarded teams, supporting programme review processes, and taking accurate meeting notes to ensure effective follow‑up and documentation.

· Help to manage engagement with a wide range of stakeholders in the dementia research landscape, supporting their input into the programmes, with clear note-taking and systematic tracking of interactions and feedback.

Research meetings and events

· Organise research meetings and events by coordinating schedules, travel and accommodation arrangements, venue hiring, catering, and liaising with meeting attendees and ARUK’s Events team.

· Assist with the smooth running of meetings and events to ensure a positive experience for all participants.

Knowledge, skills and experience needed:

· Experience in supporting teams in an administrative capacity

· Overall IT competency and knowledge of Microsoft Office, including Word, Excel, PowerPoint and Outlook

· First degree (or equivalent) in relevant biomedical science

· Knowledge of research funding processes

· Ability to work with a high level of accuracy and attention to detail

· Good organisational skills and the ability to prioritise workload

· Excellent written and verbal communication skills

· Team worker and flexible in approach

· Enthusiastic and professional manner

· Flexibility to work occasional unsociable hours if the role requires

Additional Information:

Ways of working:

As part of our Agile ways of working you will be required to work approximately 2 days a week from the office, which is subject to the requirements of the role and the business needs. Flexibility on where you work can be split between working from home and our office.

Roles that are classed as part of the Agile ways of working are not able to claim any costs for Mileage/Travel on Public Transport, Accommodation and/or Meals.  This includes when attending the office for various meetings/events.

Our Office: Our office is at 3 Riverside, Granta Park, Great Abington, Cambridge, CB21 6AD. 

Salary: Circa £24,000 per annum, plus benefits.

Please download the Vacancy Pack on our website for more information.

The closing date for applications is the 26th April 2026, with interviews being arrange once shortlisting has been completed. Please indicate in your covering letter if you are unable to attend an interview on a certain date. We would encourage you to submit your application at the earliest opportunity, as on occasion we may have to bring forward the interview date and/or the closing date based on the needs of the business. Although a possibility, this will only happen in exceptional circumstances. Please indicate in your covering letter if you are unable to attend an interview on a certain date.

We value diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive culture where everyone can be themselves and reach their full potential.  We actively encourage applications from people of all backgrounds and cultures, particularly from those in the global majority, those with disabilities, men and those from the LGBTQIA+ community. Any offer of employment is however subject to you having the right to work in the UK.

As part of our commitment to being an inclusive employer and ensuring fairness and consistency in our selection process, we will handle your CV and application with the utmost confidentiality. While we strive to anonymise your CV where possible, there are certain sections, such as the application question, that cannot be fully anonymised. We kindly ask that you remove any personal information, including your name, when answering the application question. The hiring panel will not have access to your personal details, such as your name and address, until you are invited for an interview. Should you require any adjustments at either the application or interview stage, please contact us via our website.

Senior Policy and Research Officer 

Job Description

Role Overview

Role title: Senior Policy and Research Officer
Team: Policy and Research
Reports to: Policy and Research Director
Salary: £32,000 – £34,000
Location: Kettering (flexible working considered)

Purpose of the role

The Senior Policy and Research Officer supports the organisation’s work to influence policy and practice by delivering high-quality research and analysis.

The role contributes to building a strong evidence base that informs decision-making by government, employers and partners, and supports Youth Employment UK’s position as a trusted source of insight.

What the role is accountable for

Outputs (what is delivered)

The role is responsible for designing, delivering and reporting research projects, including quantitative and qualitative analysis.

This includes analysing data, developing research tools, producing reports and briefings, and supporting the communication of findings to a range of audiences.

Outcomes (what success looks like)

Success in this role is demonstrated through the production of high-quality, reliable research that informs policy, supports organisational strategy, and is used by stakeholders.

The role contributes to strengthening the organisation’s evidence base, supporting policy development and influencing work, and enabling colleagues to use research effectively.

Behaviours (how the work is done)

The role requires a structured and analytical approach to work, with clear and accurate communication of complex information.

It involves working collaboratively with colleagues, maintaining high standards of quality and professionalism, and ensuring that research outputs are accessible and useful to different audiences.

Attitudes (ownership and judgement)

The role requires a strong sense of responsibility for the quality and accuracy of work.

This includes taking ownership of research tasks, managing competing priorities, identifying risks or issues early, and applying sound judgement when interpreting data and presenting findings.

Key priorities

The main focus of the role is on delivering research projects to a high standard, supporting policy development, ensuring research is accessible and usable, and contributing to the wider work of the team.

Skills and experience

The role requires experience in research within a policy or related environment.

Candidates should demonstrate strong quantitative and qualitative research skills, the ability to analyse and interpret complex data, experience using relevant tools, and the ability to communicate findings clearly.

An understanding of youth employment or related policy areas is desirable.

How success will be measured

Performance will be assessed through the quality and reliability of research outputs, ability to meet deadlines, contribution to policy work, effectiveness in communication, and alignment with organisational values.

Working arrangements and benefits

This role is based in Kettering, with flexibility considered depending on the needs of the role and team.

Youth Employment UK offers a supportive working environment and is committed to flexible working where possible. Benefits include annual leave, pension contribution, and opportunities for development.

Values

Youth Employment UK is committed to being a professional, collaborative and purpose-driven organisation.

All colleagues are expected to:

• work in a way that reflects our commitment to young people and employers

• demonstrate professionalism and integrity in their work

• collaborate effectively with colleagues and partners

• contribute to a positive and supportive working environment

Recruitment process

We aim to provide a clear and consistent recruitment experience.

The process for this role is expected to include an initial online interview (approximately 30 minutes), followed by a second-stage interview, usually held in person, including a structured interview and a role-related task.

Candidates who attend the interview will be informed of the outcome as soon as possible.

We are committed to fair and accessible recruitment. Please let us know if you require any reasonable adjustments at any stage of the process.