Deputy Head of Policy

Youth Advantage UK is seeking a Volunteer Deputy Head of Policy to support the Head of Policy in leading and developing its Policy Team and delivering an ambitious programme of policy work aligned with the organisation’s strategic priorities. The successful candidate will contribute to identifying and developing key policy priorities, supporting the design and delivery of impactful policy projects, and helping to shape the organisation’s wider strategic direction.

Working closely with the Head of Policy, Senior Leadership Team and Heads of the Initial Research Team, the Deputy Head of Policy will support the development of evidence-based policy initiatives, monitor emerging policy developments and opportunities, and contribute to building effective relationships with relevant external stakeholders. The role will also involve supporting the development, engagement and training of Policy Team volunteers, strengthening collaboration across the organisation, and contributing to policy-related research, publications and communications.

The successful candidate should have excellent writing, communication and analytical skills, strong IT literacy, and the ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a team. They should demonstrate a strong interest in policy development, research and evidence-based change, together with the ability to manage delegated projects, provide constructive leadership and translate complex policy developments into clear and actionable recommendations.

Responsibilities:

• Support the Head of Policy in leading the Policy Team in designing, developing and implementing impactful project objectives in line with the organisation’s strategic priorities.
• Assist the Head of Policy in identifying and developing key policy priorities and contributing to the organisation’s wider strategic direction.
• Support the management and development of relationships with relevant external stakeholders, helping to enhance the organisation’s visibility, reach and impact.
• Work closely with the Head of Policy and other members of the Senior Leadership Team in identifying and responding to emerging strategic priorities and opportunities.
• Monitor and analyse relevant external trends, developments and policy changes, providing the Head of Policy and wider organisation with timely information and recommendations where appropriate.
• Support the Head of Policy and HR in developing a strong and effective Policy Team, including contributing to the identification of appropriate skills, expertise and development needs.
• Assist in ensuring that Policy Team volunteers are appropriately supported, engaged and trained throughout their period of service.
• Support the Heads of the Initial Research Team in developing and implementing frameworks for initial research that enable effective and efficient research aligned with the organisation’s strategic priorities.
• Work collaboratively with the Communications Team to support the development and implementation of strategies that increase the organisation’s profile, visibility and impact.
• Contribute to the creation of policy-related blogs, articles, reports and other written materials, and support the development of academic articles and research outputs where appropriate.
• Support the Head of Policy and Chief Executive Officer in preparing policy strategies, recommendations and relevant materials for presentation to the organisation’s Trustees.
• Assist in delivering training and knowledge-sharing sessions for other teams within the organisation, helping members understand the policy process, how policy can be influenced and how they can contribute to policy-related work.
• Identify, collate and distribute relevant policy information, research, publications and external developments that may be of interest or value to members across the organisation.
• Take responsibility for delegated policy projects and initiatives, ensuring that agreed objectives and timelines are effectively managed and delivered.
• Provide leadership and support to members of the Policy Team in the absence of the Head of Policy or when delegated to do so.
• Promote effective collaboration between the Policy Team and other teams across the organisation, ensuring that policy considerations are appropriately incorporated into relevant organisational activities.
• Undertake any other policy-related duties or projects reasonably required by the Head of Policy or Senior Leadership Team.

Requirements:

• Experience in policy work, leading key campaigns or programmes
• High-level understanding of policy and practice, ideally in an area related to the organisation’s priorities
• Excellent knowledge of a range of methods and approaches to applying research and development in public policy
• Excellent leadership and organisational skills, with proven experience of setting priorities and motivating team members
• Excellent writing and speaking skills
• IT literacy, including proficiency with Microsoft Office and Google Suite
• Ability to work well independently and in a team
• Strong attention to detail and organisational skills
• Ability to prioritise tasks and manage time effectively

Benefits:

• Gain valuable experience in leading a policy team
• Opportunity to work with a dedicated and passionate team
• Flexible working hours