Senior public affair officer jobs
Longer working lives and ongoing economic transitions are reshaping careers: how we start them, and how we move through them. But too many people remain paid in low-paid, low-quality work – with damaging consequences for them personally, and our economy as a whole. We’re seeking a senior, policy-oriented research leader to help us and our partners generate insights that enable more people to move into and progress through better work.
You’ll have a proven track record in scoping and securing funding for research and influencing activity, with significant autonomy to lead your own programme at L&W. You’ll be supported by committed researchers and managers whom you will coach, lead, and develop—alongside a peer group of Deputy Directors working across other key pillars. We welcome quantitative expertise, but most important are the skills to design and deliver high-quality, impactful research programmes.
You’ll join an organisation with a national reputation for driving policy change—and a friendly, highly capable, delivery-focused team.
Location: Hybrid working: 40-60% in an L&W office. Our offices for this role are currently in Leicester and London, but if you are based elsewhere, please contact us to talk about how the role could work for you.
Team:Research and Development
Salary:£64,450 -£77,880 per annum (pro rata), dependent on experience and location
Duration:Permanent
Working hours:0.8 to 1 FTE, with flexible working supported (e.g. condensed hours, flexible start and finish times)
Main Purpose
The Deputy Director, Policy and Research (Better Work and Progression) will have overall ownership of the ‘Better Work’ pillar of our strategic plan at L&W: overseeing all projects and activity in this area and generating new work (including developing project ideas and securing funding).
While there is significant scope to shape the ongoing programme of research and impact work, we anticipate that key areas of focus in this area going forward will be: understanding & better supporting career change; understanding and improving policy to increase employer investment in skills; high quality and fair access apprenticeships and technical education; understanding how to better support progression from low pay.
They will be a senior leader for the organization – helping to continuously shape our strategy and the plans we are implementing to deliver it.
Duties and Responsibilities
Leadership and management
- Intellectual leadership of the Better Work pillar: developing and owning policy positions, messages, theory of change and research priorities, and supporting the wider team to feed into and understand them
- Line management of senior and mid-level staff
- Act as a senior leader at L&W – including taking on specific organization-level responsibilities where appropriate
Income
- Write and/or co-ordinate responses to reactive research and evaluation tenders in the areas of employment, better work and progression
- Develop pro-active proposals that will drive change in your area, and respond to the interests of funders and partners
- Build relationships with current and potential funders and research partners
Impact
- Act as an external expert on the issues of better work and progression: writing press quotes, articles and blogs;speaking on platforms
- Building relationships with practitioners, policymakers and partners to improve our insights, and get our recommendations implemented
- Develop appropriate means of tracking impact towards our better work goals, and monitor against them.
Delivery
- Deputy Director/Project Director-level oversight of projects being delivered in your and related areas: supporting project team to shape research plans, deliver sharp insights and manage funder relationships
- Quality Assurance of research proposals and outputs
- Use your research skills and experience to support the wider development of the Learning and Work team
Person Specification
Experience
Experience of developing, overseeing and delivering programmes of policy-relevant research at a high level - Essential
Experience of business development in a policy/research context: developing ideas, writing bids and building relationships with funders- Essential
Experience of building senior-level relationships with external stakeholders for impact and influence -Essential
Track record of delivering national and/or local policy change - Essential
Experience of senior organisational leadership as part of a team - Desirable
Experience of responding to tenders- Desirable
Skills
Advanced research skills (qualitative of quantitative) -Essential
Quantitative skills: experience of using key national research and administrative data sets to generate insights into the labour market -Desirable
Clear and direct written communication style - Essential
Knowledge
Knowledge of, and commitment to, L&W’s charitable aims and purpose.- Essential
Demonstrable knowledge of employment and/or skills policy in the UK - Essential
Demonstrable knowledge in the specific areas of Better Work and/or progression -Desirable
Learning and Work Institute works across the UK. Our work in Wales is led by a Cardiff based team, but all staff are required to follow the guidance set out in our Welsh language scheme when working in Wales.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Do you have demonstrable experience of new business development? Have you personally secured 6 figure partnerships in previous roles?
We're recruiting a New Partnerships Manager to be responsible for proactively identifying, prospecting, and cultivating leads in key sectors to secure new 5-6 figure, multi-year corporate partnerships with local and national businesses.
What does this role do?
As New Partnerships Manager, you'll:
- develop a prospect pipeline to raise a personal income target which contributes to an overall team target,
- support the Senior New Partnerships Manager in the identification and cultivation of new corporate partnerships, accessing a range of income streams and budget holders,
- support senior team members in attending meetings with potential corporate partners, including preparing relevant briefs in advance,
- prepare relevant and creative applications and proposals for pitches for potential corporate partners,
- work closely with the Corporate Partnerships Team to ensure the transition between new business and account management is seamless for both Dogs Trust and the new partner.
Interviews for this role are provisionally scheduled for week commencing 9th February 2026, and will take place on Teams. Please note, this role is based at our London office, with office attendance at least one day per week and sometimes at short notice.
Could this be you?
To be successful in this role you'll have demonstrable experience of new business development, ideally in a charity setting, with a track record of securing six-figure partnerships. You'll be organised, articulate and credible, with a real appreciation of different budget holders within companies who may be interested in supporting Dogs Trust, and an understanding of different types of corporate partnerships. In addition, you'll have demonstrable experience of senior stakeholder management and negotiation skills, and you'll have the ability to write clearly and concisely, and to tailor written style to the needs of different audiences.
To apply for this position please click the APPLY NOW button. Our application process requires you submit a personal statement explaining your interest and suitability for the role.
Dogs are incredibly diverse, much like the humans that love them! At Dogs Trust we value diversity, and we're committed to fostering an inclusive culture. We actively encourage applications from people of all backgrounds, abilities, and cultures and believe that a diverse workforce helps us to achieve our mission. Our colleague networks give our people a voice, acting as vehicles for real and meaningful change within Dogs Trust. We truly want to see every candidate shine throughout the entire job application process, interview stages, and during their time with us. If there's anything on your mind or any adjustments you may need, don't hesitate to reach out to us. We're here to support you every step of the way.
Please note, Dogs Trust is a wholly independent organisation, free of association with any political party. Our independence is critical, as it allows us to pursue our mission to campaign on dog welfare issues, on behalf of the UK’s dogs and their owners. For our public affairs roles, the ability to display political neutrality in the public eye or when working with MPs is essential.
Are you an experienced Public Affairs professional with a passion for dogs?
We’re looking for a Public Affairs Officer to support the important work we do to ensure policy makers consider dog welfare in their decision making.
What does this role do?
As Public Affairs Officer, you’ll:
- contribute to the delivery of our ambitious public affairs programme across Westminster and Whitehall, the devolved administrations and in the EU,
- support and occasionally lead on the organisation and coordination of political events, meetings, and project visits, as part of our programme of engagement with policy makers,
- support the management of the Pet Advertising Advisory Group (PAAG) and the EU Dog & Cat Alliance,
- establish and maintain positive relationships with key external stakeholders, including parliamentarians and civil servants.
Please note, this role is available as a fixed term contract until January 2027. Interviews for this role are provisionally scheduled for week commencing 9th February 2026, and will take place on Teams.
Could this be you?
To be successful in this role, you’ll need experience in parliamentary or public affairs, with a good understanding of the political landscape in the UK. You’ll also need excellent communication skills, with the ability to listen actively, negotiate and influence decision makers and strong written English, to draft clear and concise professional correspondence and communications. Above all, an interest in the aims and values of Dogs Trust is essential.
To apply for this position please click the APPLY NOW button. Our application process requires you submit a personal statement explaining your interest and suitability for the role.
Dogs are incredibly diverse, much like the humans that love them! At Dogs Trust we value diversity, and we're committed to fostering an inclusive culture. We actively encourage applications from people of all backgrounds, abilities, and cultures and believe that a diverse workforce helps us to achieve our mission. Our colleague networks give our people a voice, acting as vehicles for real and meaningful change within Dogs Trust. We truly want to see every candidate shine throughout the entire job application process, interview stages, and during their time with us. If there's anything on your mind or any adjustments you may need, don't hesitate to reach out to us. We're here to support you every step of the way.
Please note, Dogs Trust is a wholly independent organisation, free of association with any political party. Our independence is critical, as it allows us to pursue our mission to campaign on dog welfare issues, on behalf of the UK’s dogs and their owners. For our public affairs roles, the ability to display political neutrality in the public eye or when working with MPs is essential.
Are you an experienced Media or PR professional looking for the next step up in your career?
With homelessness at record highs, St Mungo’s are looking for a politically engaged, creative, and driven Press and PR Officer to amplify our frontline work and influence efforts to end homelessness for good.
You’ll join a small, dynamic team of three and lead all media and PR activity linked to our policy, research, and influencing work. This is a pivotal role in our busy press office, building strong relationships with political and social affairs journalists to share compelling stories from one of the UK’s leading homelessness charities.
In this role, you will:
- Respond to varied media requests, from service visits to commentary on major Government announcements like the National Plan to End Homelessness.
- Create impactful, politically savvy press materials, press releases, opinion pieces, responses to breaking news and letters to editors.
- Advise senior leaders on policy-related PR, providing briefings and practice interviews.
- Use St Mungo’s data creatively to tell stories about issues affecting people experiencing homelessness.
- Support ministerial visits and collaborate with government and sector partners to showcase our frontline work.
About you
You might already be working as a Senior Press and PR officer looking for a new challenge or looking for the next step in your media career. To be successful in this exciting role you will be someone who:
- Thrives under-pressure and can juggle multiple and competing demands, while prioritising your own workload.
- Is a team player who is happy to take ownership of projects and step up to support colleagues at all levels as required.
- Works with a solution focused approach who can see the ‘big picture’ and problem solve in a pressurised environment.
- Has excellent written and verbal communication skills.
- Has experience of delivering proactive PR and communications campaigns and the ability to deal with crisis communications.
In this role you will be required to work flexibly for at least 2 days per week from our Central Office in London. This allows for training, in person collaboration, team building, and other relationship building opportunities. We support a flexible approach to work with opportunities for agile working for the rest of your week; from home, or other St Mungo’s London or regional locations.
While our Central Office is currently based in Tower Hill, London we plan to relocate in the summer of 2026 to a new space in Farringdon, London.
How to apply
To view the job description and guidance on completing your application form, please click on the ‘document’ tab on the advert page on our website.
When you're ready to apply click the ‘Apply Now’ Button to submit your CV and Supporting Statement.
To find out more and apply please go to the St Mungo’s careers page on our website.
Closing date: 10am 28 January 2026
Interview and assessments on 5-6 February 2026
St Mungo's are committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace. We strongly encourage applications from all under-represented groups.
What we offer
- Excellent Development and Growth Opportunities
- A Diverse and Inclusive Workplace
- Great Pay and Other Benefits
Reporting to, and working closely with, the Head of Fundraising and Engagement, the Senior Philanthropy and Partnerships Lead will shape and implement innovative strategies, driving growth in philanthropic giving, secure corporate partnerships and obtain critical funding. With a focus on cultivating mutually beneficial, long-term relationships, you’ll craft compelling proposals, develop tailored stewardship plans, and create sponsorship opportunities that inspire ongoing support.
You’ll lead the way in securing multi-year corporate partnerships and nurturing donor relationships to meet ambitious income targets. As a key player in the senior fundraising team, you’ll contribute to strategic planning, represent the charity at events, and champion new approaches to fundraising.
With our newly formed Development Board, the Senior Philanthropy and Partnerships Lead will identify and utilise key networks to grow our philanthropic supporter base across corporate and major donor income streams. With strong writing skills, this person will also craft tailored and compelling corporate proposals and trust and foundation applications.
Who are we looking for?
To support our vision and ensure the achievement of ambitious income targets to support children and families affected by neuroblastoma, we are looking for a strategic and results-driven high-value fundraiser to join our team.
We are particularly keen to speak with interested candidates who enjoy cultivating high-value relationships from scratch and stewarding five- and six-figure corporate partnerships, and/or major donor relationships.
Person specification:
- Demonstrable significant experience working in corporate fundraising (experience in major donor and trusts & foundations fundraising would also be of benefit).
- Strategic thinker with significant experience at a managerial level, developing strategic plans to grow and optimise high-value fundraising.
- A proven record of being results-driven and working to achieve income targets, KPIs and outcomes.
- Proven ability to proactively identify, cultivate and secure new corporate relationships, demonstrate strong new business development acumen and confidence opening new opportunities.
See our Recruitment Pack for the full role description and specification and for information about Solving Kids' Cancer UK.
Location: Home-based within England with regular travel to London and elsewhere in the UK as required
First stage interviews: Thursday 26th February
Second stage interviews: Wednesday 4th March
As a safeguarding charity whose work and practice are underpinned by safeguarding principles to protect children and young people and enhance their welfare, we always work in accordance with legislation, statutory guidance, and best safeguarding practices. All our roles require a basic criminal record check.
Our vision is a future where no child dies of the childhood cancer neuroblastoma or suffers due to the treatment they receive.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
The position is offered on a full time basis (36.25 hours per week). This role will be home-based but will require travel to Edinburgh and/or other parts of Scotland and the UK for in-person meetings as required.
Interviews will be held w/c 16th February in person at our Edinburgh offices.
Are you passionate about making a real difference in children's lives through impactful policy and public affairs engagement in Scotland and across the UK? Do you want to influence key decisions on child poverty and social policy while working with Scottish Government, MSPs, and UK-wide stakeholders? If so, we want to hear from you.
Barnardo's is looking for a Policy & Public Affairs Officer (Scotland) to help shape our influencing in Scotland and strengthen our UK-wide work on child poverty. This is a fantastic opportunity for someone eager to build on their existing knowledge and experience with policy makers in Scotland while playing a pivotal role in creating positive, lasting change for children, young people, and families.
In this role, you'll work closely with our Senior Policy and Public Affairs Lead (Scotland) to implement our influencing plan. You'll help raise Barnardo's Scotland's profile among key stakeholders and policy influencers. You'll be involved in:
- Monitoring key developments within the Scottish policy landscape
- Managing relationships and liaising with stakeholders at all levels
- Conducting research and producing reports to support our policy objectives
- Supporting reactive policy work to respond to emerging issues
- Organising events to showcase Barnardo's vital work and engage decision-makers
Your efforts will ensure that the voices of children, young people, families, and our services are central to our influencing activities in Scotland.
When completing your application please refer to your skills knowledge and experience in relation to the Person Specification and Job Description. This should be done with an understanding of the context of the service described.
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.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Annual leave: 33 days (plus eight bank holidays)
Benefits:
- enhanced maternity, paternity and adoption leave, and shared parental pay
- family-friendly policies
- 8% employer pension contribution (Aviva)
- three x basic salary life assurance cover
- free health cashback plan (Medicash): employee cover plus up to four dependent children
- 24/7 virtual GP access (UK registered), plus access to Best Doctors
free, confidential employee assistance programme (Medicash) - access to a wellbeing app
- flexible working options including hybrid working, flexible working patterns such as part-time, compressed hours, and more*
- learning and development opportunities including bespoke training and access to LinkedIn Learning)
- commitment to employee health and wellbeing.
- we have a Menopause Friendly accreditation and are a Disability Confident employer
Join Dementia UK as Public Affairs Manager and help shape our impact as we enter our 2025–30 strategy. You will play a central role in strengthening our political influence and championing the voices of people affected by dementia at the highest levels of decision-making.
You will lead our public affairs work in Westminster, building strong relationships with parliamentarians, government officials and political advisers, and providing clear political insight to shape our campaigns, policy development and public-facing activity. You’ll help position Dementia UK as a trusted voice on dementia, social care and health, proactively identifying opportunities to raise our profile and influence key debates.
Working closely with colleagues across the organisation, you will develop, shape and own a small but high impact public affairs function. You’ll also provide line management and team leadership to a Public Affairs Officer.
To succeed in this role, you will bring extensive experience in public affairs with a strong understanding of UK political institutions, policy-making processes, and how to build public affairs capabilities. You will have a proven track record of building and managing relationships with senior political stakeholders to deliver policy change, and the ability to set direction, assess risk/opportunities in a fast-moving political environment.
Apply today and be a part of a team committed to making a real difference in the lives of those affected by dementia.
We would love to hear from you! If you would like to find out more about the role, or have any queries, please get in touch with us.
Our culture
In addition to a competitive salary and a generous benefits package, we truly value our people. It’s important for us to create a working environment that looks after our workforce to support them in achieving their full potential. You will become part of a diverse and dedicated team who are supported to use and develop their skills. We recognise and value the key role you will play in delivering our strategic plans for the benefit of those living with dementia.
Our staff have a voice. Representatives from different roles and levels across the organisation positively contribute to and lead on our working groups around health and wellbeing, menopause, and equity, diversity and inclusion.
Dementia UK is proud to welcome everyone. We aim for a truly inclusive culture with talented, diverse teams that represent a variety of backgrounds, perspectives, and skills. We celebrate difference and individuality and encourage everyone to join us and be their whole selves always.
Dementia UK is a Disability Confident Employer. If you’d like support to make an application, contact us.
By applying to join Dementia UK, you acknowledge that in the event you are successful for the role, any offer and your ongoing employment will be conditional on you having or obtaining the right to work in the UK.
*Please note that any decision on flexible working is based on business needs
When you apply for a job at Dementia UK, we will collect certain information about you to process your application and assess your suitability for the role. Further details can be found in our privacy notice.
5Rights is seeking to recruit an outstanding professional Senior Public Relations Adviser to support our world-leading NGO at a time of exceptional visibility and opportunity to scale our impact. This is a remote role and can be based either in the UK or Belgium.
About 5Rights
5Rights Foundation exists to ensure a digital world that will serve children and young people today and for future generations. We are a small team of senior professionals and experts delivering change in how the digital world works. We have shifted the narrative and the agenda through provocative comms campaigns (e.g. Twisted Toys), pioneering research (e.g. Pathways) and award-winning tools (e.g. Child Online Safety Toolkit). We continue to drive real-life change thanks to an outstanding track-record of delivering legislation (e.g. Californian Age Appropriate Design Code), policy and regulatory frameworks (e.g. UNCRC General comment No.25), and industry standards (e.g. IEEE 2089).
Role Purpose
The Senior Public Relations Advisor leads 5Rights' external public relations and media strategy, positioning 5Rights as a global authority on children’s rights in the digital environment. The role shapes the public narrative around our mission, ensuring 5Rights’ work achieves maximum visibility, credibility and impact with policymakers, the media, industry and the public.
This is a senior, strategic role requiring exceptional judgement, political awareness and strong relationships across media and stakeholder landscapes.
Key Responsibilities
- Develop and deliver a comprehensive public relations strategy aligned with 5Rights’ mission and policy objectives.
- Position 5Rights as a leading voice on children’s rights in the digital environment in UK, EU and international media.
- Anticipate emerging issues and shape proactive public relations strategies around key policy moments, research releases and advocacy campaigns.
- Protect and enhance the organisation’s reputation, including crisis communications and risk management.
- Build and maintain strong relationships with senior journalists, editors and broadcasters across national and international media.
- Secure high-profile coverage in print, broadcast and digital media.
- Act as principal media advisor to the Executive Director and senior leadership team.
- Support and coach senior spokespeople and youth representatives for media engagements.
- Lead public relation planning for major campaigns, policy launches and advocacy initiatives.
- Advise on strategic partnerships and external engagement from a public relations perspective.
- Represent 5Rights at events, conferences and high-level meetings as required.
- Contribute to strengthening 5Rights’ overall public relations impact by bringing senior PR expertise, networks, and strategic media insight to the team.
Person specification
This is a highly challenging and rewarding position for a professional with the following attributes:
Essential skills and attributes:
- Extensive senior-level experience in public relations, communications, journalism or public affairs, ideally within policy, advocacy, human rights, technology, or social impact sectors.
- Proven track record of shaping national and international media coverage and securing high-profile placements across print, broadcast and digital platforms.
- Demonstrated experience leading public relations and media strategy, including reputation management, at organisational or campaign level.
- Experience advising senior leaders and acting as a trusted public relation expert in high-stakes and politically sensitive environments.
- Exceptional writing and editorial skills, with the ability to translate complex policy, technical and research content into compelling public narratives.
- Deep understanding of media landscapes, political processes and public policy dynamics, particularly in the UK, the EU and internationally.
- Experience of crisis communications and issue management.
- Outstanding judgement and political awareness.
- Strong strategic thinking combined with hands-on delivery.
- Highly developed interpersonal skills with the ability to influence and build relationships at senior level.
- Confident, authoritative and credible spokesperson when required.
- Excellent project management and organisational skills with the ability to manage multiple high-profile priorities simultaneously.
- Ability to work under pressure and respond rapidly to fast-moving external developments.
- Strong collaboration skills and ability to work effectively across multidisciplinary teams.
- High standards of professionalism, discretion and integrity.
- Deep commitment to the mission and values of 5Rights Foundation.
- Resilient, adaptable and solutions-focused.
- Proactive, self-motivated and comfortable working with a high degree of autonomy.
Desirable skills and attributes:
- Experience working on children’s rights, digital rights, technology policy or online safety.
- Experience of international advocacy and global communications.
Practical details
- Location: Remote position in either the UK or Brussels. Some international travel required.
- Salary: €80,000 / £70,000 per annum including all benefits.The final offer will depend on skills and experience.
- One-year contract, renewable dependent on impact.
- Working hours: Full time (38h week), with occasional accommodation necessary for work across time-zones.
- Statutory pension contribution.
- 25 days annual leave per annum.
- Work equipment including a laptop will be provided.
- Starting data: ASAP, depending on notice period.
- Reporting line: Leadership team
5Rights values diversity and we strongly encourage people from under-represented groups to apply for this role. We aim for our recruitment to be inclusive and equitable, and we strive to constantly learn and improve in this regard.
How to apply
Please send your CV and a brief cover letter by 31st January 2026 via our website.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
The Head of Advocacy, Awareness and External Relations is a senior leadership role within AtaLoss, working closely with and reporting directly to the CEO. The post-holder will lead work across the public, bereavement and commercial sectors to deliver AtaLoss’ strategic outcomes by:
- providing national leadership in bereavement awareness, advocacy and policy influence, including through Parliament, the APPG and the media
- strengthening the website as the UK’s trusted gateway for bereavement support, ensuring accessible, high-quality content and effective signposting
- enabling holistic bereavement support in communities and workplaces through partnership development, training and the growth of Bereavement Friendly Communities
- contributing to organisational sustainability through income-generating training, cross-sector partnerships and effective external engagement.
The role sits at the heart of AtaLoss’ mission to ensure that every bereaved person can access the right support at the right time, and to position bereavement as a public health issue requiring timely, coordinated and understanding response.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Using Anonymous Recruitment
This organisation is using Anonymous Recruitment to reduce bias in the first stages of the hiring process. Submit your application as normal and our system will anonymise it for you. Your personal information will be hidden until the recruiter contacts you.
The Difference is an education charity, founded to change the story on lost learning. Our vision is to see lost learning falling nationally by 2030 and for schools to be better equipped to support all children, particularly those most vulnerable.
We are a small, growing charity delivering many school leadership programmes, with a growing research and policy arm. We have had excellent early impact but there is work ahead to capture this, share learning with schools and policy-makers, and campaign to lower exclusions across England.
The Role
This is an exciting time to join The Difference as we increase our impact, reach more schools, and develop our influencing strategy. As Head of Policy and Public Affairs you will:
Design and execute an impactful influencing plan
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Design an influencing plan - Identify via horizon scanning opportunities to influence national policy using open policy windows, or by nudging/creating new ones.
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Execute an influencing plan - Utilise own assets and assets across the organisation, including the Director team, to deliver against the influencing plan.
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Relationship building - Build highly credible and impactful relationships with a variety of stakeholders who hold power. This will include policy makers in national governments, local government officials, politicians, other third sector organisations and think tanks.
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Leadership - Play a significant role internally and externally in communicating the organisation’s policy position, raising organisational and own brand.
Build policy capacity and credibility across the organisation
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Policy positions and solutions- Use the concepts, work and experience of The Difference’s programmes to develop new, and refine existing, national policy positions to shift incentives.
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Thought leadership - Be the organisation’s education policy and political expert.
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Generating income - Use own and team’s expertise and credibility to generate income via speaking engagements and consultancy to support the organisation’s financial sustainability.
Person Specification
Essential – We are looking for someone with the following knowledge, experience and skills, though you may be stronger in some areas than others:
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Deep expertise in education policy, particularly on the topic of lost learning and the various policy and political debates, including areas of controversy, surrounding this policy topic.
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Strategic thinker with a proven track record in identifying policy windows and designing activities that lead to meaningful national policy change.
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Excellent relationship builder, who brings with them their own network of influential stakeholders and has a plan for building new relationships. Adept at navigating tricky situations and explaining complex, sometimes difficult, messages.
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Expert convener with a strong knowledge of the education sector, including which schools, trusts and local authorities are influential and experience in bringing a variety of perspectives together to generate consensus.
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Persuasive and clear writing style for publication, including reports, press, blogs and ghost writing for members of the senior leadership team, often based on consensus positions, and designed to communicate key messages for impact.
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Confidence and credibility in communicating nuanced messages in a contentious landscape, in writing, verbally and in public (e.g. on panels), to raise the profile of The Difference.
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Strong project manager who can design systems and processes to keep self, team and other stakeholders on task and on time. Experience of designing programmes of work and monitoring their effectiveness. Flexible project management style that can adapt to a changing environment. Confidence in managing a variety of stakeholders and supporting them to deliver on time.
Desired – You are more likely to be successful in your application if you have one or more of the following:
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Familiarity with The Difference’s programmatic work, theory and practice.
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Lived experience or insight into the school experiences of marginalised young people (e.g. those with experience of the care system, mental ill health, special educational needs, exclusion, and racism).
We know that some people, especially those from marginalised backgrounds, may hesitate to apply unless they meet every listed requirement. If this role excites you and you believe you could make a strong contribution, we warmly encourage you to apply.
We actively welcome applications from people whose backgrounds are under-represented in the charity sector, including but not limited to: people from black, Asian and minority ethnic backgrounds, LGBTQ+ people, people with disabilities, people with experience in the case system, non-graduates and first-in-family graduates.
The Difference exists to improve the life-outcomes of the most vulnerable children by raising the status and expertise of those who educate them.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
The Organisation
Family Fund is the UK’s largest charity supporting low-income families raising disabled or seriously ill children and young people.
We help thousands of families every year with essential grants, services and practical support. But we do much more than that. We champion families’ voices, challenge inequality and help shape the conversation on disability, childhood illness and disadvantage.
The Role
This is an exciting opportunity to shape how Family Fund connects with people across the UK. As a newly created role, it offers real scope to define and develop the function, while playing a central role in strengthening the organisation’s voice and influence.
We are looking for a bold, creative Group Director of External Affairs to join our Senior Leadership Team. At a time when families need us more than ever, you will raise Family Fund’s national profile and influence, positioning the organisation as a trusted, evidence led voice on childhood disability, serious illness and the broader challenges facing low-income families. You will build and sustain strong relationships with policymakers, funders, and the public ensuring the organisation secures the visibility, support, and resources needed to drive lasting change for the families we serve.
You will lead an energetic, specialist team spanning communications, media, public affairs, partnerships and research, bringing these areas together through a joined up external engagement strategy that delivers real impact.
Some key responsibilities include:
- Lead our communications, media, public affairs, partnerships and research teams
- Raise Family Fund’s profile as a trusted national voice
- Build strong relationships with policymakers, media, funders and partners
- Help drive real change for families through influence and insight
Who we’re looking for
We are looking for an experienced leader who loves the power of communication, influence and connection.
Key attributes will include:
- Senior experience in external affairs, communications or public affairs
- A strong track record of influencing policy and engaging senior stakeholders
- Experience leading teams and working at senior level
- A warm, confident communication style and great relationship skills
- A real passion for Family Fund’s mission and social justice
This is an exciting, high impact role with the chance to make a genuine difference to families across the UK.
Candidate Briefing Pack
For comprehensive information about Family Fund, the role responsibilities and the person we are looking for, please download the Candidate Briefing Pack.
How to Apply
If you would like to apply for this fantastic opportunity, please provide the following with your application:
- An up-to-date CV
- A supporting statement of no more than 2 sides of A4, outlining your experience, motivations and suitability for the role.
All applications are being handled by our recruitment partner, Russam. All applications should be uploaded via the Russam website.
If you have any difficulty uploading your application or if you would like to have an informal and confidential discussion about the role, please contact Melissa Baxter - Managing Partner, Charities at Russam.
Closing date for applications: Monday 2nd February 2026
Initial interviews with Russam: 17th and 18th February 2026
Interviews with Family Fund: 4th, 5th and 6th March 2026
Flexibility will be provided if needed - do let us know as soon as possible if you are unavailable on these dates.
We commit to inclusion, equality and diversity and we welcome applications from all parts of the community. Family Fund is a Disability Confident Leader. We will invite to interview all disabled applicants who meet the requirements for the role. If you have a disability, and are happy to let us know, please highlight this in your covering letter. We have also signed the Armed Forces Covenant, and we welcome applications from the Armed Forces Community.
About Mesothelioma UK
Mesothelioma UK is a national charity dedicated to supporting anyone affected by mesothelioma, a rare and aggressive form of cancer caused primarily by asbestos exposure. Our mission is to help people live better and longer, champion equitable access to improved treatments, advance research, and amplify the voices of those living with mesothelioma. We are proud to provide specialist nursing, information, research, and advocacy services across the UK.
The Opportunity
As our founder and current CEO steps down, we are seeking a visionary and values-driven Chief Executive to lead Mesothelioma UK into its next chapter. This is a pivotal moment for the charity, offering the chance to build on our strong foundations and drive forward our ambitious strategy to improve outcomes for all those affected by mesothelioma.
About the Role
Reporting to the Board of Trustees, the Chief Executive will:
- Inspire and lead a high-performing team, including our unique NHS-based nursing network.
- Develop and deliver organisational strategy and operational plans.
- Ensure robust financial management and income generation.
- Build strong relationships with stakeholders including the NHS, donors, partners, and research teams.
- Act as an ambassador for the charity, raising our national and international profile.
- Uphold our commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion.
About You
We are looking for an exceptional leader who brings:
- Proven experience at CEO, Director, or equivalent senior level in a non-profit or health sector environment.
- A track record in leadership, strategic planning, financial management, governance and fundraising.
- Strong people management and stakeholder engagement skills.
- Passion for our mission and values, with high ethical standards and integrity.
- The ability to inspire, motivate, and unite staff, volunteers, and partners.
What We Offer
- Salary circa £75,000 (negotiable, dependent on experience)
- 10% employer pension contribution
- Health Cash Plan & Employee Assistance Programme
- Flexible working arrangements
- The chance to make a profound difference to people’s lives
We are a national charity dedicated to supporting people affected by mesothelioma through expert care, information, and advocacy.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
About the team
The Communications team at Impetus is a small, friendly, creative team that punches above its weight. Sitting alongside our brilliant Policy colleagues within the wider Public Affairs team we are passionate about communicating Impetus’ work with clarity, in a way that resonates with our audiences, and increases our influence and impact.
Aspiring to be a ‘digital first’ organisation, we spend time keeping up with digital communications trends to improve our efficiency and help us produce and optimise engaging, cutting-edge content.
About this role
We’re looking someone who can support the team to maintain our strong online presence by delivering engaging, creative digital content. This role is about collaborating with colleagues, applying your knowledge of digital platforms, and actively developing your skills to keep pace with emerging trends.
Based in our busy Communications team, you will be responsible for creating compelling and engaging online copy for a range of platforms, as well as managing and growing our social media communities to amplify our brand, working across the organisation, for example:
- Supporting our Philanthropy team to engage donors in our work and through our series of events.
- Helping our Policy team to increase the knowledge of their recommendations for change among opinion formers and decision makers through social media.
- Working directly with the Investment team and our portfolio partners to gather and share their insights and stories.
Day-to-day you might be writing and repurposing blog content for our online channels, working with our Creative Content Officer and Media and Communications Officer producing multi-media content to support our events programme, or using insights and data to keep our digital content relevant and our audiences engaged.
We are looking for someone creative and driven, who shares our ambition and can help keep us on top of emerging digital trends.
You’ll know your way around social media platforms including X / Twitter and LinkedIn and tools like and Hootsuite and Google Analytics. You will also be able to produce excellent written content for an online audience including social media posts and blogs, with scope to grow within the role over time.
This is an exciting time to join a rapidly growing organisation. We’ll give you creative freedom within a clear brand framework. And your work will have a tangible impact on tackling the barriers that hold back young people from disadvantaged backgrounds.
Key responsibilities
- Writing clear, concise and engaging copy for a variety of online platforms including social media, blogs, websites and email marketing.
- Supporting the Senior Communications Manager to manage our online brand, including how people interact with and interpret our work, by creating and scheduling content for social media and digital platforms using agreed templates and tone of voice.
- Liaising closely with our Creative Content Officer and Media and Communications Officer to produce compelling multi-media products that can be used across our platforms.
- Maintaining accurate records and trackers for posts, engagement data, and campaign timelines.
- Supporting the Communications team by preparing materials for events and online campaigns.
- Monitoring and optimising our digital channels, ensuring content is consistently high-quality, well structured, on brand and performing at its best.
- Using data and feedback to improve content quality and relevance.
- Collaborating with colleagues across teams to ensure consistency and timely delivery of our digital communications content.
- Assisting the Head of Communications in the development, implementation and monitoring of our internal communications strategy, including our regular staff newsletter.
- Working with our portfolio partners and the Investment team to gather and share their insights and stories.
- Escalating risks or delays early, providing clear context and options.
- Applying inclusive language and accessibility standards in all content.
- Actively seeking opportunities to learn about new digital tools and trends.
Person specification
Essential
- A highly developed understanding of online platforms and social media algorithms.
- Experience creating accurate, engaging content for online platforms.
- Experience of working with social media platforms e.g. LinkedIn and X, and tools e.g. Hootsuite and Google Analytics.
- A track record of writing concise and engaging content that resonates with the target audience and presents complex subjects in a clear and compelling way.
- Ability to adapt content strategies to meet the changing needs of the audience and the platform.
- Experience of using data and insights to optimise content, engagement and grow followers.
- Demonstrably up to date with emerging digital trends and an interest in online community building.
- Ability to follow agreed processes, templates, and brand guidelines.
- Strong organisational skills to plan and sequence tasks effectively.
- Attention to detail and commitment to delivering work to agreed standards.
- A willingness to learn and adapt to new tools and approaches.
- Collaborative approach, building positive relationships within the team.
- Commitment to Impetus’ mission and values, including equality, diversity, and inclusion.
Desirable
- Experience in video / film production and optimising video content for online platforms.
- Experience of commissioning content and working in close collaboration with agencies and/or freelancers.
- Experience / knowledge of website management and CMS, email marketing platforms, project management software and digital ad platforms.
- An interest in the education and / or youth employment policy landscape.
- An interest in the UK youth and / or charity sectors.
About Impetus
At Impetus, our focus is on helping young people achieve positive education and employment outcomes to increase their chance of leading fulfilling and successful lives, irrespective of their background.
We tackle the three most difficult challenges that affect a young person’s ability to succeed in life in Britain today:
- Lost learning through absence, suspensions, exclusions from school
- Stagnation in education attainment outcomes, which means many are missing out on key qualifications like GCSE English and maths
- The large numbers of young people out of education, training and employment
We use our deep expertise and high calibre networks to give the best non-profits working in these sectors the essential ingredients to have a real and lasting impact on the young people they serve.
Through a powerful combination of long-term funding, direct capacity building support from our experienced team and our pro bono partners, alongside research and policy influencing to drive lasting systems change, we work towards a society where all young people can thrive in school, pass their exams and unlock the doors to sustained employment, for a fulfilling life.
We are resolutely focused on outcomes and impact, driven by quality evidence.
You would be joining a team that is passionate, rigorous, determined, creative and warm. We care deeply for our colleagues, our portfolio partners and the young people we serve.
Impetus is a registered charity and our charity number is 1152262.
Our Values
In 2022 the Impetus staff agreed the following set of Values to act as our guiding principles as an organisation and help us to remain focused on achieving our mission to support young people from disadvantaged backgrounds.
We are brave and curious
We are bold and brave in our pursuit of better outcomes for young people. We lead with curiosity and stay open to new perspectives. We support one another to take considered risks and learn together.
We bring high trust, high challenge
We build strong, long-term relationships through honesty, kindness, integrity, and respect. We create the space for open, constructive challenge, where colleagues, partners and supporters feel safe to speak up, hold each other to account, and bring their best in pursuit of our mission.
We are evidence led and results driven for young people
We pursue excellence for the young people we work with, are wholly committed to better outcomes, unapologetically results driven, and accountable for our actions.
We thrive through diversity
We seek to embed diversity of thought, background and experience in every aspect of our work. We are open, thoughtful and proactive in better understanding and challenging our assumptions to better deliver the change we seek.
We always seek collaboration
We will not succeed alone. We seek meaningful, productive partnerships with others to achieve our mission and drive systems change for young people.
Our commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion
We believe that a diverse workforce leads to an organisation that is more open, creative and gets better results.
We want our team at Impetus to represent the diversity of the people and communities we serve. We also want our team to be one where different experiences, expertise and perspectives are valued, and where everyone is encouraged to grow and develop.
We want to reach a diverse pool of candidates. 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 work/life balance. We do everything we can to accommodate flexible working, including working from home, working part-time 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.
Impetus is an equal opportunity employer and is determined to ensure that no applicant or employee receives less favourable treatment on the grounds of age, disability, gender reassignment, marriage and civil partnership, race, religion or belief, sex and sexual orientation. We value diversity and welcome applications from people of all backgrounds.
Our employee benefits
Impetus appreciates the invaluable contribution made by all employees and wishes to encourage and reward loyalty, motivation and experience. We therefore offer a range of benefits and policies which aim to assist employees during various stages of their lives and careers. For more information on these, please download the job information pack from our website.
How to apply
Please click on the "Apply for this job" button.
You will need to:
- Complete the online form (including the equal opportunities monitoring form)
- Upload a comprehensive CV and supporting statement.
The supporting statement should be no more than two sides of A4 and should address the criteria in the person specification.
You should also include the contact details of two referees, one of whom must be your current or most recent employer. Referees will only be approached with your express permission.
As part of our commitment to flexible working we will consider a range of options for the successful applicant. All options can be discussed at interview stage.
The deadline for applications is Sunday 8th February 2026, 11:59pm.
Interviews:
1st Interviews will take place on Thursday 19th February 2026.
2nd Interviews will take place on w/c 23rd February 2026.
You will also be required to provide proof of your eligibility to work in the UK.
Personal Data
Your personal data will be shared for the purposes of the recruitment exercise. This includes our HR team, interviewers (who may include other partners in the project and independent advisors), relevant team managers and our IT service provider if access to the data is necessary for performance of their roles. We do not share your data with other third parties, unless your application for employment is successful and we make you an offer of employment. We will then share your data with former employers to obtain references for you. We do not transfer your data outside the European Economic Area.
Impetus transforms the lives of young people from disadvantaged backgrounds by ensuring they get support to succeed in school, in work and in life.

Royal Liverpool Philharmonic is now seeking an exceptional and visionary Director of Development to lead its fundraising at a pivotal moment in its evolution. This newly created senior role reflects a step change in ambition as the organisation embarks on an exciting new chapter of growth, partnership and global profile. Reporting to the Chief Executive and sitting on the Executive Team, the Director of Development will inspire and lead a talented development team while playing a central role in shaping the organisation’s future direction. You will spearhead major fundraising initiatives, including a landmark capital campaign to realise plans for a new recording, rehearsal and creative centre — envisaged as an “Abbey Road of the North” — designed to support future talent, innovation and the wider creative economy of the Liverpool City Region. Alongside this, you will help secure the long-term success of Royal Liverpool Philharmonic’s award-winning artistic, learning and community programmes.
The successful candidate will be a dynamic, relationship-driven leader with a strong track record of securing transformational income within complex, mission-led organisations. You will bring strategic vision, deep knowledge of the philanthropic landscape, and the confidence to unlock new sources of support from individuals, trusts, foundations and corporate partners. Crucially, you will play a leading role in articulating a clear, compelling and cohesive external narrative for Royal Liverpool Philharmonic — one that brings together its heritage, ambition, social impact and future aspirations — and ensure this story resonates powerfully with funders, partners, civic leaders and audiences. Passionate about music and culture, you will be an inspiring leader, a trusted advisor to the Board and Executive, and a persuasive ambassador for an organisation that exists to enhance and transform lives through music.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Policy Campaigns Officer
A permanent position has arisen as part of the continued growth of our campaigns work within our friendly Policy, Public Affairs and Campaigns department. The Policy Campaigns Officer will play a key role in helping the charity deliver high-impact campaigns that mobilise supporters, influence policy, and raise awareness of issues relating to dementia research.
Working across digital and offline channels, you will support integrated campaign planning and delivery, contribute to evaluation and insight, and coordinate activity across multiple teams.
This exciting role will tackle complex issues, offering opportunities to work on innovative public-facing campaigns, digital engagement, and translating policy objectives into compelling actions and messages that drive measurable change for people living with, and affected by, dementia.
Key Responsibilities:
Campaign development and delivery
· Support the development and delivery of campaigns aligned to the charity’s strategic policy objectives.
· Help design campaign plans, including objectives, audiences, tactics, timelines and evaluation measures.
· Deliver campaign activity across a range of channels, both digital and offline.
· Work with colleagues across the organisation to ensure campaigns are evidence-led, inclusive and aligned with organisational priorities.
· Monitor campaign performance and contribute to evaluation and learning.
· Act as a point of contact for work with external agencies and suppliers.
Influencing and supporter mobilisation
· Support efforts to influence decision-makers by mobilising supporters and amplifying public voices.
· Work with policy and public affairs colleagues to align public-facing campaign activity with political influencing messaging and objectives.
· Help build and maintain relationships with supporters, volunteers, partner organisations and coalitions.
· Assist with producing campaign briefings, messaging and supporter-facing materials.
Communications and digital campaigning
· Work closely with communications and digital teams to deliver integrated campaign content.
· Support the development of email, social media and online action tools to engage supporters.
· Adapt campaign messages for different audiences, ensuring clarity, accuracy and impact.
· Contribute to content planning and delivery to maximise reach and engagement.
Events and engagement activity
· Support the planning and delivery of campaign-related events, both online and in-person.
· Represent the charity at relevant events, meetings and conferences as required.
· Assist with coordinating meetings and briefings involving supporters, stakeholders and internal teams.
· Liaise with colleagues, supporters and external partners to ensure effective delivery of campaign activity.
What we are looking for:
· Experience supporting or delivering public-facing campaigns, advocacy or engagement activity
· Understanding of how campaigns can influence decision-makers and public opinion.
· Experience of digital campaigning or supporter mobilisation
· Experience of working collaboratively with colleagues across different teams
· Experience of building positive relationships with supporters, stakeholders or partners
· Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to adapt messages for different audiences
· Strong organisational skills and the ability to manage multiple tasks and deadlines
· Ability to work both independently and collaboratively within a team.
· IT literate, with experience using Microsoft Office and digital tools
· Commitment to the charity’s vision, mission and values
· Proactive, flexible and solution-focused approach to work
· Strong team player with the ability to use initiative
· Willingness to learn and adapt in a fast-moving environment
· Willingness to work outside of regular office hours during busy periods (e.g. campaign launches or events)
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 £30,000 per annum, plus benefits.
Please download the Vacancy Pack on our website for more information.
The closing date for applications is the 1st February 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, in particular those from ethnic minority backgrounds who are currently under-represented. 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.
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.
There has never been a more important and exciting time in dementia research. With promising new drugs in clinical trials that slow the progression of the diseases that cause it, and revolutionary new ways to diagnose them on the horizon, we are now at a tipping point. Working with the smartest minds globally and across the UK, with industry and academia, Alzheimer’s Research UK is uniquely placed to invest in the very best research identifying barriers to a cure and knocking them down so that there are more and better treatments for everyone with dementia. For the first time in history, we can see a future where people with dementia can get a swift and accurate diagnosis, and effective treatments that could slow or even stop their disease. We stand for everyone affected by dementia. We stand for a cure.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.


