Overview
We have an exciting opportunity to drive ARMA’s engagement with political and health sector stakeholders and lead our communications. Working closely with the CEO, you'll help raise the profile of the Alliance, influence policy outcomes, and support members to collaborate to effect change.
Over 20 million people live with musculoskeletal (MSK) conditions in the UK.
ARMA brings together patient charities, professional bodies, research organisations and industry partners to work together for better MSK treatment, care and support.
You can help us to make MSK health a higher national priority and thereby improve the lives of millions of people. You can also make a wide ranging contribution to us developing as a charity and Alliance. This role will offer lots of opportunity for personal and professional development.
Key responsibilities
· Develop and implement ARMA's influencing and political engagement plans.
· Build relationships with key stakeholders, including politicians, government departments, and advisers.
· Monitor research, policy and legislative developments affecting MSK health.
· Draft briefings, consultation responses, letters, and parliamentary correspondence.
· Represent ARMA at meetings, roundtables, and political events.
· Chair and manage meetings and webinars comprising the policy and communications leads of member organisations.
· Lead and co-ordinate the annual Bone and Joint Week campaign activity and the combined efforts of member organisations.
· Develop and manage campaigns and external communications that promote the work of ARMA and our members, including social media channels, our monthly newsletter and website.
· Assist the CEO in policy and public affairs work and support the wider delivery of our strategy and operational plan, as required.
About you
We're looking for someone who brings:
· Experience working in a public affairs, parliamentary, or policy role either in-house, in an agency, or in a political setting.
· Excellent political awareness and understanding of UK policymaking.
· First rate written and verbal communication skills.
· A proactive and collaborative approach, with the ability to build relationships at all levels.
· An interest in health policy.
· Alignment with our vision and values.
This is a fantastic opportunity to join a respected and important charity at the heart of a growing Alliance of organisations. You'll have autonomy, visibility, and the chance to make a meaningful impact whilst working with high profile members and stakeholders.
For more details download the job pack.
Please submit your CV. Your covering letter must be no more than 400 words long.
Please apply early, we may close the vacancy once we receive a sufficient number of strong applications.
Registered Charity
1 - 5
Better MSK health for everyone.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Thank you!
This is an extraordinary opportunity to join Belong’s Senior Leadership Team as Director of Programmes, a pivotal role at the heart of our mission. You will lead the design, delivery, and impact of Belong’s programmes across England and Wales, ensuring they are strategic, inclusive, and evidence-based. Working closely with the CEO and senior colleagues, you will shape programme strategy, oversee complex portfolios, and drive systemic change that strengthens social cohesion nationwide.
As Director of Programmes, you will:
- Lead strategic development and delivery of Belong’s place-based programmes, ensuring alignment with our mission and values.
- Oversee programme design, implementation, evaluation, and learning to guarantee quality and measurable impact.
- Line manage a talented team of Programme Leads and Coordinators, fostering a culture of collaboration and empowerment.
- Apply systems thinking to understand the interconnected nature of community, policy, and service ecosystems.
- Build and maintain high-level partnerships with funders, commissioners, local authorities, and community organisations.
- Represent Belong at national forums, events, and networks, championing our work and influence.
- Identify and pursue new opportunities for programme development and funding, supporting organisational growth.
This is a senior leadership position that combines strategic vision with hands-on delivery. You will play a key role in shaping Belong’s future and ensuring our programmes make a lasting difference to communities across the UK.
About You
We are seeking a visionary and experienced leader with:
- Proven experience in leading complex programme portfolios and delivering impactful initiatives.
- Strong strategic thinking and planning abilities, with a track record of shaping programme strategy.
- Excellent leadership and line management skills, with the ability to inspire and develop teams.
- Experience managing diverse stakeholders, from senior decision-makers to community partners.
- Familiarity with systems change and participatory approaches.
- Understanding of social cohesion, integration, and related social policy issues.
- Strong communication and influencing skills, able to translate complex ideas into accessible messages.
- Highly organised, diplomatic, and politically astute, with experience in income generation and bid development.
Desirable: Experience in areas such as Prevent, PCVE, community tensions, hate crime, or tackling misinformation.
Personal qualities matter too: we’re looking for someone passionate about improving cohesion and integration in the UK, collaborative and inclusive in their leadership style, and committed to equity, diversity, and inclusion.
Why Join Us?
At Belong, you’ll be part of a dynamic, values-driven team united by a shared commitment to creating a more inclusive and connected society. We offer:
- 30 days’ annual leave
- Hybrid working (typically 3 days in the office)
- Enhanced sick pay and family-friendly policies
- Opportunities for professional development and growth
Salary: £65,000–£70,000
Location: UK-wide (regular travel across England and Wales)
Contract: Permanent, Full-time
Closing Date: 12 January 2026
About Belong
Belong – The Cohesion and Integration Network is the UK’s leading not-for-profit organisation dedicated to building a more united and less divided society. We work with communities, local authorities, and national partners to strengthen trust, belonging, and resilience. Through innovative place-based programmes, research, policy influence, and thought leadership, we help create stronger, kinder, and more connected communities. Our growing membership spans local authorities, charities, civil society, and businesses, and we are proud to champion collaboration, diversity, and evidence-led approaches.
*Our office is based in Manchester and we offer hybrid working for those able to travel there. However, this role is open UK-wide and can be worked remotely, with regular travel across England and Wales required.*
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.