Public affairs jobs

We are looking for a confident, values‑led Head of Communications to lead SSAFA’s communications function at a time when trust, clarity and judgement truly matter.

This is a senior leadership role within the Fundraising, Marketing and Communications directorate, responsible for protecting and strengthening SSAFA’s reputation, leading issue management, and delivering clear, engaging internal communications for staff and volunteers across a complex national organisation.

You will lead a professional national and regional communications team, setting clear direction, supporting development, and creating a culture where people feel trusted, supported and able to perform under pressure. Acting as a senior communications adviser, you will work closely with executive leaders and colleagues across the organisation to ensure communications are timely, accurate, and grounded in SSAFA’s values.

This role is about judgement as much as delivery - knowing when to move fast, when to pause, and how to support people while maintaining high standards.

About the team

You’ll be leading a regionally dispersed communications team within our wider Fundraising, Marketing and Communications directorate, working closely with a range of stakeholders to shape compelling, consistent communications across the organisation. This is a collaborative, fast‑paced environment where strong relationships matter, and where your leadership will help ensure our voice helps deliver real impact

About you

You are an experienced communications leader who combines professional authority with emotional intelligence.

You will bring:

• Significant experience in reputation management and crisis communications.

• Credibility as a senior communications adviser in complex organisations.

• A strong track record of leading and developing teams, including through pressure or change.

• A deep understanding of internal communications and their role in organisational culture and trust.

• Excellent judgement, clarity of thought and calmness under pressure.

• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to adapt tone for different audiences.

• A collaborative, people‑centred leadership style.

An understanding of the voluntary sector and the Armed Forces community is desirable, but above all we are looking for someone who leads with integrity, empathy and sound judgement.

About SSAFA

SSAFA, the Armed Forces charity is a trusted source of support for the Armed Forces community in their time of need. In 2024 our trained teams of volunteers and employees helped more than 53,000 people, including veterans, serving personnel (regulars and reserves) and their families.

SSAFA understands that behind every uniform is a person. And we are here for that person and their family, any time they need us and in any way they need us..

Diversity and Inclusion at SSAFA

SSAFA exists to support a diverse range of beneficiaries within the armed forces community, and we believe diversity within our teams is key to ensuring we can deliver our services effectively. We thrive on differences and believe it is critical to our success as a worldwide charity. SSAFA is proud to be an equal opportunity workplace that seeks to recruit, develop and retain the most talented people from a variety of backgrounds, perspectives, and skills. We therefore encourage applications from all genders, races, religions, ages and sexual orientations, as well as parents, veterans, people living with disabilities, and any other groups that could bring diverse perspectives to our business.

SSAFA is committed to using the Disclosure & Barring Service to ensure we, as an employer, safeguard those we serve.

No agencies please. Any unsolicited submissions from agencies will be accepted as a direct application from the candidate and no fees will be payable.

Closing date: Midnight on 06 May 2026 SSAFA reserves the right to close the vacancy early if we receive a high volume of suitable applications.

Interviews: TBC

Role outline and purpose

To manage policy and public affairs influencing in Wales to ensure effective delivery of Trussell’s strategy to achieve policy and secure policy change that ends the need for food banks.

To contribute to the delivery of the wider goals of the Making Social Security Work programme across the UK and to the Prioritising Hunger & Hardship, Supportive Communities and Holistic Advice programmes in Wales.

Key responsibilities

Support the development and delivery of Trussell’s strategy to end the need for food banks in Wales.

· Supports the development and delivery of Trussell’s strategy to end the need for food banks in Wales. This includes planning influencing opportunities, developing relationships, and shaping asks to advance Trussell’s mission in Wales, contributing to the successful delivery of our overall strategy.

Deliver policy, public affairs, and advocacy in Wales.

· Deliver policy development, public affairs, and advocacy activity to contribute towards the goals of the organisation’s Wales strategy and achieve policy change. This includes working closely with Wales based colleagues to represent Trussell in the media and at external events, managing social media, direct engagement with MS’s. MP’s, ministers, advisers and officials, preparing briefings and co-ordinating events and advocacy activity across Wales that secures impactful engagement. This ensures a coherent, effective influencing programme is delivered that drives policy change and strengthens organisational credibility.

Build strong evidence base for Wales.

· Work with programme teams across Trussell and with external partners to ensure strong evidence base for Wales and ensure our evidence is shared externally and has impact. This includes sharing research findings with a range of audiences and external stakeholders through written and verbal briefings and working collaboratively with programmes across Trussell to build robust evidence base for the organisation’s policy and public affairs influencing and profile in Wales.

Develop effective partnerships and networks.

· Build collaborative external partnerships and develop networks to strengthen policy and public affairs activity in Wales, represent Trussell and promote the organisation’s policy positions to external stakeholders and audiences. This includes working with Wales based colleagues to represent the organisation in key Welsh sector coalitions and promoting the organisations policy positions and evidence to external stakeholders, to build awareness of the issues driving people to use food banks in Wales and our policy solutions.  

Support effective campaigning.

· Work with campaign colleagues, food bank-facing colleagues in Wales and the food bank network to shape and deliver effective campaign activity that advances the organisation’s goals and strategy in Wales and across the UK.  This includes working with Wales based colleagues to shape campaign activity, advise on the political context, and support mobilisation. This ensures campaigns are well informed, relevant to Wales and contribute meaningfully to UK wide programme objectives.

Person Specification

Core knowledge:

· Good knowledge of policy issues relevant to Trussell’s vision and expertise on the policies that drive hunger and hardship in Wales.

· Significant knowledge of the political landscape in Wales and of effective techniques for influencing change.

· Good understanding of research methods and of how to ensure high quality and credible evidence is deployed effectively.

Essential skills:

· Strong skills in effectively influencing political and public debates and working with politicians and policymakers across the political spectrum.

· Good ability to think strategically, demonstrate effective decision-making and ensure practical delivery of impactful activities.

· Excellent communication skills, including written, presentations and speaking, ability to adapt to influence different audiences.

· Collaborative interpersonal skills, ability to build relationships and influence internal and external stakeholders.

· Effective project management and ability to balance competing priorities and meet tight internal and external deadlines.

Key Experience:

· Track record of delivering effective policy and public affairs activity and achieving impact, ideally in Wales.

Special Requirements

None

Longmire Recruitment is our dedicated partner for this vacancy

Public Affairs Manager

Location: Home-based with frequent travel to Westminster and occasional travel to the devolved nations

Hours: Full-time (35 hours per week), with some evening work and travel required*

* The RSB currently offers a four-day working week (32 hours), which is non-contractual and reviewed annually

Position:Permanent

The Royal Society of Biology is a single unified voice, representing a diverse membership of individuals, learned societies and other organisations across the biosciences. Our members study, work and research in fields that encompass humans, animals, plants, fungi, microorganisms, ecosystems and the molecular mechanisms of life. Our vision is of a world that values biology's contribution to understanding and improving life for all.

This exciting new Public Affairs Manager role will sit within the External Affairs department. It will lead the RSB’s political engagement, and maximise the Society's influence on relevant government policy across the UK.  Working closely with the Policy teams, the Public Affairs Manager will champion the RSB's policy priorities in relation to bioscience research, innovation and education, ensuring that policymakers understand the Society's mission and the needs of its members.  You will also deliver an annual programme of engagement in Westminster on behalf of the wider STEM community, and collaborate with partners on STEM-related activity across the devolved nations.

The successful applicant will be able to demonstrate:

• Experience in public affairs and parliamentary engagement, ideally within the science, research, health, education or charity sectors.
• An understanding of the UK research and innovation landscape and education system, and knowledge of relevant stakeholders.
• An understanding of evidence-based policymaking and the ability to draft clear briefings on complex scientific or technical issues.
• Experience of building relationships with parliamentarians, civil servants and sector stakeholders.
•  Excellent communication skills, with the ability to translate technical concepts into accessible messaging for political audiences.

Longmire Recruitment is our dedicated recruitment partner for this vacancy.

Applicants must have the right to work in the UK.

The RSB is committed to ensuring equal opportunities in the life sciences, and supports diversity throughout lifetimes at school and higher education, in the workplace and training; we value diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive culture. We actively encourage applications from people of all backgrounds, abilities and cultures and believe that a diverse workforce will help us to achieve our mission.

#PublicAffairs

We are a not-for-profit organisation committed to increasing the diversity and numbers of young people entering engineering and technology to meet the future workforce needs, as well as promoting roles that help us work towards net zero and drive environmental sustainability.
 

Are you looking for a role in a dynamic and busy policy and public affairs team operating in the education and skills policy arena? Are you interested in a role that will provide you with the opportunity to use your research skills and work with a range of stakeholders on developing impactful policy? Then this is your opportunity. EngineeringUK is looking for a temporary Policy Manager ready to lead on the development of some of our organisational policy priorities and positions to ensure that government policy addresses EngineeringUK’s concerns in relation to for example apprenticeships and the ‘growth and skills levy’, Skills England, diversity in engineering & technology pathways and STEM teacher shortages.
 

It is an exciting time to work in policy and if you have excellent verbal and written communication skills, experience in drafting policy reports and recommendations and a good understanding of how to sell these to policymakers, we want to hear from you.
 

About the role

Reporting to the Head of Policy and Public Affairs and working closely with colleagues across EngineeringUK as well as our partners, you will be instrumental to the delivery of our policy and public affairs programme.

You will lead on policy projects and on developing organisational policy positions, producing reports and responses to government consultations (with a focus on education and skills).  You will be working with the Public Affairs Advisor and other colleagues to communicate these messages to government. You will also be responsible for engaging with stakeholders, internally and externally, requiring you to be an excellent team player and collaborator. You will have a good understanding of how to use research and data to identify trends and support policy development and be a confident and persuasive communicator. You need to be able to work independently and be adept at managing multiple tasks in a deadline driven environment.

The role is London based at our office at 10 Lower Thames Street, London EC3R 6EN and may involve some travel in the UK. We believe that hybrid working has many benefits and are pleased to offer flexible working with a minimum of 2 days (or 40%) a week in the office and the option for a flexible start and end to the working day in our vibrant central London office overlooking the Thames. Further details on our flexible working practices can be discussed at interview or you can reach out to a member of our HR team.

Further details of the role can be found in the job description and person specification.

About EngineeringUK

Our purpose is to drive change so more young people choose engineering and technology careers.

Our vision is that the UK has the diverse workforce needed for engineering and technology to thrive and drive economic prosperity, improve sustainability and to achieve net zero.

Our mission is to enable more young people from all backgrounds to be informed, inspired and progress into engineering and technology.

In the UK, we don’t have enough engineers and demand is going up. So, we need more young people to realise there could be a future for them in engineering and technology. To really thrive, we need a stronger, more diverse and representative workforce and for that we have to do things differently to make engineering more appealing.

We are a not-for-profit working with hundreds of organisations across business, education, professional institutions and the third sector so we can all grow the future talent pool together. We drive that collective effort through research and evidence, leadership, activities for schools and advocacy, with a focus on long-term sustainability.

We guided by a series of values that we apply to all our activity:

• We are inclusive and care about diversity. We understand that we have different needs and create opportunities for everyone's voice to be heard
• We are collaborative. We listen, share and work in partnership to achieve our vision
• We are curious and keen to learn. We challenge ourselves and others to innovate and experiment
• We are insightful. We evaluate what we do and draw on research to make decisions and to improve our collective understanding
• We are driven by a strong sense of purpose. We are determined to make an impact and achieve our goals

About you

Essential Skills / Competencies

• Demonstrable experience of developing organisational policy positions, policy responses and report writing as well as leading on impactful policy engagement with government stakeholders.
• Demonstrable experience of using government and other datasets to support policy development.
• Demonstrable experience managing policy projects including relevant stakeholder management that leads to lasting partnerships. Proven ability to lead a project and take people – internal and external to the organisation - with you.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, including a proven ability to simplify complex research and policy message, and to write confidently and concisely for a variety of audiences.
• Good understanding of the education and skills landscape, as well as the political environment surrounding it.
• Proven ability to work independently and prioritise in response to many competing demands and time, but also take direction, be flexible and work collaboratively with others, contributing to team decisions and facilitating cross-organisational working. Pro-active approach to working.
• Commitment to our mission and values, in particular, you will be able work in a way that supports our commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion.
• Commitment to our mission and values, you will be able to engage with our values and work in a way that supports our commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion

Desirable Skills / Competencies

• An existing network of contacts across the education, skills and/ or the engineering sector in and outside of government.

Education / level of experience

• Educated to degree level or equivalent, or similar ability gained through work experience relevant to the role.
• Expected level of work experience – minimum 3 to 5 years in a similar role.

EngineeringUK is committed to being an inclusive workplace, where everyone feels they belong.  This is supported by the dedicated work we are doing to ensure our policies and practices are inclusive and that our staff are trained to be able to fulfil this commitment.

We value the benefits of a diverse workforce and encourage applications from people of all backgrounds and experiences.  Our recruitment process is designed to be as accessible and inclusive as possible and to ensure people are individually assessed regardless of their backgrounds or characteristics.

We are an equal opportunities employer and are open to flexible working, including job share.
 

Applying for this role

Applications

If you would like to request to submit your application in an alternative format to support accessibility, please let us know.

We want to hear your voice and experience in your application. We acknowledge that you may use AI tools to polish a response, but your application should reflect your experience and voice. All applications are reviewed and scored by our human hiring team.  Our system flags responses that it judges to be AI generated and your application may be disregarded if we feel it has been completely AI generated.
 

The deadline for applications is 5pm on Monday 4th May 2026

The role would be available for someone to take up from mid-June 2026.

Interviews

Applications will be assessed against the requirements for the post as set out in the job description and in the ‘about you’ section above. 
 

We are a Disability Confident committed employer. We guarantee an interview to any disabled people who meet the minimum requirements of the role. Additionally, if there are any reasonable adjustments we can make to make this process easier for you then we are happy to do so. Just complete the relevant sections of the online application form. 
 

We aim to notify candidates who have been shortlisted on Friday 8th May 2026 .If you have not heard from us after this date, please assume that you have not been successful.
 

First interviews will be held on 13th and 14th May 2026. 

What can we offer you?

• Competitive salary
• 28 days paid annual leave (plus bank holidays), in addition we normally close for the Christmas week
• Competitive pension (10% employer contribution)
• Annual bonus opportunity
• Flexible working
• A vibrant office with terrace overlooking the Thames embankment and Tower Bridge
• Employee Assistance Programme
• Life Insurance (4 x salary)
• Cycle to Work Scheme
• Long term illness/incapacity insurance cover (permanent health insurance or PHI)
• Annual private health check for employees
• Discounted gym membership
• Yearly flu vaccination

Lloyds Bank Foundation 

Head of Public Affairs (Maternity Cover) 

Starting Salary: £64,936 per annum (London-based) 

Contract: Full-time, fixed-term contract (we are open to conversations about different ways of working - so please ask) 

Location: London-based role with expectation of hybrid working from our London office 

About Lloyds Bank Foundation 

Lloyds Bank Foundation for England and Wales is an independent charitable foundation, backed by Lloyds Banking Group and the people within it. We want everyone to be in a good place - personally, in a home that’s a good place to live, and in a community that’s a good place to belong. 

We play our role by connecting and catalysing community-led change, providing the money, time, tools and connections that build organisations’ capacity and capability, to make people’s lives better and their communities stronger. 

We back people and communities across England and Wales, to make that happen, because when you back brilliant people, brilliant things happen. Our communities are full of ambitious, energetic and determined people stepping up to make their neighbours’ lives better and their communities grow stronger. Day in, day out. 

About the Role 

This is an exciting leadership opportunity to shape and lead the Foundation’s national public affairs and influencing work during a period of maternity cover, maintaining momentum and driving meaningful change in policy and practice. 

As Head of Public Affairs, you will set direction for influencing activity across England and Wales, ensuring it is aligned to organisational priorities and continues to deliver impact. You will lead engagement with senior policymakers and political processes, acting as a credible and visible representative of the Foundation. 

Working closely with colleagues, you will ensure that influencing activity remains informed by local insight and translated into clear national priorities. You will also contribute to organisational leadership, supporting strategic direction while leading a high-performing public affairs team through this period. 

About You 

We’re looking for an experienced and credible leader with a strong background in public affairs, policy, or influencing. You will bring a track record of delivering impact at national or regional level, alongside a strong understanding of the UK political landscape. 

You will combine strategic thinking with practical delivery, with excellent relationship-building skills and experience of engaging senior stakeholders. You will be confident providing leadership and continuity in a fixed-term role. A commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging is essential. 

How to Apply 

Please click ‘Apply’ to be redirected to our website, where you can download the Candidate Information Pack and find details of how to apply. 

For an informal conversation about the role and application process, please contact our recruitment partner, Atkinson HR via the information in the candidate pack.

Our Commitment to Diversity, Equity and Inclusion 

We hold Disability Confident Employer status (Level 2) and are working towards full status by 2027. This means that if you're a disabled applicant and your CV and application answers clearly demonstrate that you meet the essential criteria for the role, we will invite you to interview. 

More broadly, we are committed to building a diverse team that reflects the communities and people we work with. We believe that diversity of background, experience and perspective makes us stronger and helps us make better decisions. We actively welcome applications from people who are under-represented in the charity sector, including people from Black, Asian and minoritised ethnic communities, disabled people, and those with experience of the issues our funded charities work to address. 

Key Dates 

Closing Date: Thursday 7th May 2026 

Optional Q&A Session: Wednesday 6th May 2026 at 09:00-10:00 

First Interview: Monday 18th May 2026 

Second Interview: Monday 1st June 2026 

Transport for All has a strong reputation for leading the debate and advocating for change to improve the journeys made by disabled people. This role presents an opportunity for a strong leader with the commitment, enthusiasm and expertise to build on our success.

Our Chief Executive will be responsible for continuing to delivering the remainder of our 5-year strategy, whilst horizon-scanning to work with the team and wider DPO community to engage in the opportunities and changes ahead. We’re a small team and this is a wide-ranging role which includes:

• Representing the voice of the 16 million+ people in the disabled community by influencing policy and infrastructure decision-makers through our campaigns.

• Overseeing a highly regarded policy and public affairs function with associated communications and stakeholder engagement, maintaining our high profile and reputation with national and local governments.

• Ensuring the charity’s funding is robust and sustainable, looking at how we can diversify our income and direct it towards what matters through continuing to deliver our strategy and planning for our future.

• Overall responsibility for our successful training, research and consultancy business, building partnerships and further growth. This includes the National Accessible Transport Survey.

• Championing our award-winning support services for disabled people.

• Leading our expert teams through a period of growth and consolidation, embedding a strong organisational culture and matching our structure and systems to our upcoming challenges and increasing size.

You will report to and be supported by a well-functioning and committed Board of Trustees who are professionals with experience of working in the charity and transport sectors, as well as finance, legal and government backgrounds.

As Grants and Outreach Officer, you will play a key role in driving Electrical Safety First’s mission to reduce deaths, injuries, and accidents caused by electricity, particularly for the most vulnerable in society.

You will help manage the Charity’s grant scheme programme, which distributes £1,000,000 annually to fund community-based initiatives that raise awareness of electrical safety and reduce risks for those who face the most danger. Through this, you will help empower local organisations to create tangible change in their communities.

In addition to helping administer the grant scheme, you’ll support the Charity’s outreach initiatives, working closely with the Senior Grants and Outreach Officer to identify opportunities to expand the charity’s reach and partnerships. 

The charity’s outreach work goes beyond working with grant partners to maximise impact. It also involves identifying and developing partnerships with organisations that enable us to reach the most at-risk and hard-to-reach groups, working with them as trusted intermediaries, and supporting the development of longer-term, sustainable projects that deliver lasting impact.

This includes proactively engaging with grant recipients and partners, visiting funded projects to see first-hand the difference our work is making in educating people and saving lives, raising the profile of the charity, and ensuring outreach activity supports wider organisational objectives, including policy and public affairs priorities.

As this role sits within the Public Affairs and Policy team, there will be opportunities to connect grant and outreach work to the charity’s wider UK public affairs activity. This may include supporting work on key issues such as product safety, housing, and net zero, and occasional opportunities to support the team’s engagement with political stakeholders.

This is a unique opportunity to combine grant management and outreach, while gaining experience in public affairs, all with the goal of helping protect lives and making a real difference at a national and local level. 

Working With Us

This is a hybrid role, with the office located in Borough, a short walk from London Bridge. There are expectations for travel around the UK as part of supporting grant recipients and outreach work.

Additional Information

Applications will close on 17th May, though please note that we may close the application sooner depending on the number of applications received, so we would encourage you to apply as soon as you are able. 

Successful applicants will be contacted to arrange an interview, which will involve a task to be specified closer to the time. Unfortunately due to capacity, we will be unable to contact unsuccessful candidates.

Our Benefits

• 25 days’ holiday a year (plus bank and public holidays)
• Festive Break (Discretionary): Up to three extra paid days off between Christmas and New Year 
• Employee assistance programme
• Employee discount platform
• Hybrid working
• Learning opportunities
• Life assurance
• Loyalty awards
• Workplace pension scheme
• Private medical insurance (Optional)

Use of Artificial Intelligence by candidates

We recognise that many candidates find Artificial Intelligence to be a useful tool to support your application. However, all examples and statements provided must be truthful, factually accurate and taken directly from your own experience. Please therefore do not solely rely on AI for your application.

We are looking for a Policy Public Affairs Manager for a fixed term contract unitl April 2027. You will build relationships with key stakeholders in government, parliament, the police and across safeguarding agencies, finding ways to engage and motivate policy makers.

The role is based in South West London, Hybrid working and the charity are happy to talk about flexible working such as part-time working or flexible working hours.

The Charity
You would be joining a welcoming team at a passionate social welfare charity dedicated to helping people in very difficult
circumstances, from family support and counselling, to a free helpline and specialist services.

Benefits include
28 days annual leave per annum/pro rata plus bank holidays
Company pension contribution - Employees contribution 3% salary (net 2.4%) / Employers contribution
5% salary
Employee Assistance Programme
Generous family friendly benefits including

The role
Directly influence the development of national and local policy and guidance, including through written communication such as consultation responses or briefings, and through inputs at meetings and events.
Lead and support evidence gathering including APPG Inquiries (This may include direct engagement with people with
lived experience).
Plan and oversee campaigns, events and other activities to inform key policy makers and practitioners, and to drive improvements in guidance and practice including in policing and social care.
Represent the charity at external events and meetings including Advisory Groups.
Proactively create opportunities to engage and influence politicians and policy makers on the charitys briefings, research and campaigns, including at events and meetings.

The candidate
Previous experience of working in a policy or public affairs role.
Experience of successfully influencing change at a local and/or national level.
Experience of building and maintaining relationships with politicians and other policymakers, including quickly building rapport and establishing trust.
Experience in coordinating and leading events and meetings with influential stakeholders.
An understanding of political systems across the UK and how to influence policy within those systems.

IMPORTANT NOTE

Our aim is to respond to all successful applications within 5 days. If you havent been contacted within 5 days your application has been unsuccessful, but we positively encourage you to apply for any other positions that you may see in the future.

We apologise that we cannot contact everybody in person but thank you in advance for your interest.

Third Solutions encourages applications from individuals of all ages & backgrounds. Appointment will be made on merit alone but candidates must be able to demonstrate their ability to work in the UK. Third Solutions acts as an employment agency for permanent recruitment & an employment business for temporary recruitment as defined by the Conduct of Employment Agencies & Employment Business Regulations 2003.

This is an exciting opportunity for a proactive and analytical policy professional to join our dynamic External Affairs team in The Royal College of Radiologists’ (RCR).

Our policy aims are simple: to enhance NHS systems, pathways and working conditions for RCR members so that they can provide optimum care to their patients. While the aims are simple, making it happen is less so. This is where the policy team come in. Good working relationships with the doctors and senior manager are key to the success of this role, establishing credibility and understanding how their needs from the frontline can be best met.

In this role the Policy Advisor will work with the wider team by actively monitoring and responding to the external environment to influence change. The Policy Advisor will lead the development of evidence-led policy development in priority influencing areas. The postholder will be confident collaborating with key decision makers, and responding to consultations from governments and regulators. Working closely with the Policy and Public Affairs Manager and other members of the external affairs team to provide advice and counsel to the College. 

This is a great time to join the RCR team – with the exciting opportunity to build exposure and experience in public affairs, media and evidence. 

What you’ll do:

• Gather, interpret and analyse information on policy areas relevant to RCR specialties, clinical oncology and clinical radiology
• Work with Officers, committee chairs, special interest groups and other doctors to ensure that our consultation responses reflect the expert views of the RCR’s membership
• Support the planning, development, delivery and review of policy projects, consultation responses and lines to take
• Support the building of relationships with external stakeholders, including opinion formers and decision-makers
• Crafting external policy content as requested including reports, briefings, web content and presentations
• Monitoring and responding to policy queries from members and stakeholders

What you’ll need:

• Good working knowledge of public policy, government and parliament across the four nations
• Experience of writing policy papers and positions 
• Experience of responding to consultations 
• Excellent interpersonal, verbal and written communication skills
• Ability to explain complex issues clearly in writing and orally, able to adapt style
• Ability to build good working relationships with different teams, working in a collaborative way

If you are looking for an opportunity to demonstrate your expertise and grow your skills in a charitable organisation with a great cause and ambitious goals then please find out more about the Policy Advisor role, the RCR and instructions on how to apply in our candidate pack. 

Why join us:

• Make a difference to the lives of Doctors and medical specialties
• Hybrid working – up to 60% remote
• Modern working environment with home‑working equipment provided
• Generous annual leave, plus the option to buy up to 5 extra days
• Enhanced family‑friendly leave (maternity, paternity and adoption) for those with 2+ years continuous service 
• Excellent pension scheme
• Sabbaticals (5+ years’ service) and secondment opportunities
• Interest‑free season ticket loan and cycle to work scheme
• Employee Assistance Programme
• Long service recognition awards

Do you want your work to influence Parliament, shape public debate and make a tangible difference to people’s lives? 

We are looking for a driven, curious and politically savvy External Affairs Specialist to join an excellent team that delivers for our members every day. This role offers a genuine opportunity to help build and strengthen our parliamentary engagement and deliver high quality communication with our members at a pivotal time for social care. 

You will join a supportive, intelligent and ambitious team that values evidence, collaboration and impact. We invest in our people, encourage professional development and give you real responsibility and exposure from day one. Your work will help shape national conversations and support a sector that matters. 

About us 

We are the UK’s leading membership body for over 2,200 homecare providers. Together, we work to ensure society values and invests in homecare so people can live well at home and flourish in their communities. We support our members with practical tools, trusted insight and strong representation, and we speak with authority to government, Parliament, the media and the wider public. 

About the role 

As External Affairs Specialist, you will play a central role in two of our most important priorities: strengthening our parliamentary engagement and delivering clear, timely and high-quality communication with our members. 

You will ensure members feel informed, heard and represented, while helping to build our presence and influence in Parliament. A core part of the role involves translating what our members experience on the ground into clear, persuasive messages that resonate with policymakers and parliamentarians. 

This role suits someone who enjoys joining the dots, spots opportunities quickly and wants to continue building a career in public affairs, parliamentary engagement and communications within a respected, mission driven organisation. 

What you will do 

Parliamentary engagement 

• Lead day to day parliamentary monitoring and identify opportunities to influence debates, questions and policy development 

• Draft high quality briefings, parliamentary questions and stakeholder communications 

• Build and maintain relationships with MPs, Peers and parliamentary staff 

• Support delivery of our parliamentary engagement activity, including events and party conferences 

Member communication 

• Draft clear, timely and engaging communications for members, including briefings, updates and campaigns 

• Work directly with members to capture insights, case studies and evidence 

• Ensure member voice sits at the centre of our external messaging 

• Translate complex policy and political developments into practical, accessible information for members 

Wider external affairs 

• Monitor media coverage and support proactive and reactive media activity 

• Contribute to social media and wider communications output 

• Support campaigns, publications, events and stakeholder engagement 

• Support team coordination, reporting and continuous improvement 

About you 

You are bright, motivated and organised, with a strong interest in politics, policy and communications. You enjoy writing, relationship-building and working at pace. You take initiative, think critically and care about delivering high-quality work. 

You will bring: 

• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with an ability to tailor messages to different audiences 

• Experience in public affairs, media, communications or campaigning, or a closely related field 

• An understanding of UK parliamentary processes and political engagement 

• Confidence using social media to inform, engage and influence 

• Strong planning skills and the ability to manage multiple priorities 

• An interest in social care, health or public services, or a desire to build expertise in this area 

Why join us 

If you want a role where your ideas count and your work makes a difference, we would love to hear from you. 

Location(s)   

This position is open to candidates currently based in Scotland, in line with the role’s operational requirements. The role is home-based with in person attendance to our ‘All Staff Days’ in London (5 per year), team meetings (roughly 6 meetings per year) and occasional travel to other meetings and Westminster as required. Where possible, these are combined with an overnight stay. 

London office: AdviceUK, 83 Victoria Street, London, SW1H 0HW 

Job Title:  Policy and External Affairs Manager (Scotland) 

Employment Type:  Part-time 

Reporting to:  Head of Policy, Programmes and Media 

Pay scale: £40,000 - £42,500 Full time equivalent  (Actual salary £32,000-34,000)

Interview: In person interviews will take place on Friday 29th May at our London office

Working hours: 28 hours per week (4 days/0.8) within normal operating hours. Flexible working arrangements will be considered. (Normal operating hours are 8.00am - 6.30pm, Monday – Friday.) Lunch & other breaks are unpaid. 

Special conditions: Some evening and weekend work may be required for which time off in lieu (TOIL) will be granted. Some travel will be required which may entail some overnight stays.

We are committed to diversity and inclusion and welcome applications from all backgrounds, particularly encouraging those from underrepresented groups. 

CHARITY OVERVIEW 

Since 1979, AdviceUK has been supporting advice organisations by helping them to be efficient, competent and effective, and by campaigning for a policy environment that supports advice agencies and people needing advice.

We are both a membership body and charity. We support our 700+ members (109 of which are located in Scotland) to provide advice to around 2 million people every year. We are working towards a world in which every individual, regardless of means, is able to access the advice they need to exercise their rights and deal with any legal and social welfare challenges they may face. 

JOB PURPOSE  

To set up and manage our policy and public affairs activities in Scotland ensuring AdviceUK has a strong voice, so we can secure policy change to benefit organisations delivering advice and the communities they serve. The post holder will be responsible for establishing AdviceUK’s first policy and influencing strategy for Scotland, including through developing policy solutions informed by strong evidence and rooted in member experience, and leading effective political and stakeholder engagement which will influence change. They will work closely with colleagues across the UK to join up policy, influencing and communications work. 

KEY TASKS AND RESPONSIBILITIES  

1.Strategy 

1.1 Develop AdviceUK’s first policy and influencing strategy for Scotland, through consultation with members and stakeholders and analysis of the landscape and opportunities in Scottish policy making. 

1.2 Put plans in place to roll out a specific programme of proactive and reactive policy work to further AdviceUK’s strategic aims in Scotland and represent the voices of Scottish members. 

1.3 Devise measures to monitor the impact of our policy and influencing work in Scotland and report back to staff, trustees, members and stakeholders about the difference we are making. 

2.Policy development 

2.1 Collaborate with AdviceUK members, partners, sector stakeholders and 

beneficiaries to develop clear, concise and authoritative policy positions on key issues. 

2.2 Produce high-quality, well-argued policy materials based on data and evidence, including reports, select committee responses, evidence statements, briefings and responses to Scottish Government consultations. 

2.3 Provide policy input for media statements, press releases and social media posts relating to Scotland, which are managed by the Press Officer and Digital Marketing Officer.

2.4 Develop an expert knowledge of policy issues affecting Advice UK members, keep up to date on the political and legislative environment and identify opportunities to use these to further Advice UK’s strategic objectives. 

2.5 Represent AdviceUK at policy and/or sector meetings and events.

3. Public affairs 

3.1 Roll out a programme of public affairs work including Scottish parliamentary engagement to promote AdviceUK’s strategic priorities. 

3.2 Build and maintain effective relationships with stakeholders across the Scottish Government and parliament, local and decision makers, non-governmental bodies and other relevant stakeholders. 

3.3 Champion an evidence based approach to all Advice UK’s advocacy and external relations work, drawing on research and member insight to inform our campaign messages. 

3.4 Ensure regular opportunities for Advice UK members in Scotland to feed into our public affairs and advocacy work, and regular communications on our impact, to demonstrate how we amplify their voice. 

3.5 Monitor and evaluate public affairs work, including collecting relevant metrics, to report back on our success and inform future campaigns. 

4. Research and data 

4.1 Work with Policy, Programme and Media (PPM) colleagues as well as the wider AdviceUK team to develop the evidence base needed to inform our policy and campaigns work in Scotland. 

4.2 Work with the Research and Policy Analyst to carry out analysis that identifies emerging trends in the Scottish advice world and use this to provide evidence-based policy briefings and specific policy solutions. 

5. General duties 

5.1 Ensure you effectively communicate Advice UK’s vision, mission and objectives to staff, members and external stakeholders.

5.2 Ensure you demonstrate Advice UK’s values and behaviours in all aspects of your work

5.3 Build and maintain positive relationships with key stakeholders including staff trustees; members, partners and suppliers 

5.4 With support from your manager, deliver your agreed personal objectives and undertake any agreed development or training

5.5 Maintain a strong understanding of our members and the advice sector more generally, by reading internal reports; accessing relevant data reports; following our social media channels and, where possible, attending member and other relevant events. With the agreement of you line manager, ensure you make time to speak to members and visit their services.

5.6 Adhere at all times to Advice UK’s policies and procedures

5.7 Carry out any reasonable duties compatible with the post assigned by your line manager 

The Head of Strategic Communications will lead strategic communications at ECU, building on our track record of shaping media narratives around the economy and working across multiple campaigns and programmes.

As our Head of Strategic Communications, you will devise and deliver impactful communications strategies to shape the way the UK media covers economic policy. You’ll help ensure that UK media debates are grounded in robust and innovative economic thinking and rise to the scale and urgency of current societal challenges.

If you believe that media and public debate on economics could be improved - and if you have the strategic communications track record to make that happen - then we would like to hear from you.

Location

Hybrid (most ASH staff go into our Vauxhall office 1-2 days per week. However, we are open to fully remote working for the right candidate). This is a UK-based role; applicants must have the right to work in the UK for at least two years to be considered. ASH is unable to sponsor working visas.

About ASH

Action on Smoking and Health (ASH) is a leading public health charity working to eliminate the harm caused by tobacco. We work with government, parliamentarians, the NHS, researchers and civil society to deliver policies that reduce smoking and support people to quit, with the ultimate aim of ending smoking in the UK.

A key part of ASH’s work is supporting and convening professional networks that bring together organisations and experts working to reduce smoking harms across different sectors.

Purpose of the Role

The Stakeholder Engagement and Network Co-ordinator will support and strengthen several of ASH’s key professional networks, ensuring they operate effectively and maximise their impact on policy and practice. The post holder will maintain strong engagement with network members, facilitate collaboration across sectors, and ensure insights from networks inform ASH’s policy and communications work.

The role will also lead on the development of a new Lived Experience Network, enabling people with current or past experience of smoking to inform ASH’s policy work.

In addition, the post holder will support organisations to sign up to and engage with the newly launched Pledge for a Smokefree UK, helping to build a broad coalition of support for ending smoking.

Over the coming year it is anticipated that there will be a high volume of government consultations on tobacco as government prepares to implement the powers in the Tobacco and Vapes Act. The input of our professional networks into these consultations will be an additional priority. 

What We Offer

• The opportunity to contribute to major public health progress by helping to end smoking.
• A supportive and collaborative team environment.
• Flexible and hybrid working arrangements.

Person Specification

Essential

• Experience coordinating networks, coalitions, partnerships or stakeholder groups
• Excellent interpersonal skills with any ability to manage challenging relationships, ensure compromise and rally stakeholders around a unified message
• Ability to engage with a wide range of stakeholders across health, policy and voluntary sectors.
• Strong organisational skills and ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously whilst delivering to deadlines.
• Good attention to detail, in particular in written communications.
• Interest in public health policy and health inequalities.
• Ability to take complex or controversial topics and communicate them in a clear, easy to understand way with clear actions to take.
• Ability to work independently and drive projects from concept to completion.
• Ability to work collaboratively within a small team.

Desirable

• Experience working in public health, health policy or the voluntary sector.
• Experience supporting events, meetings or stakeholder engagement activities.
• Experience involving people with lived experience in policy or advocacy work.
• Understanding of tobacco control policy in the UK.

Application process and interviews

Please submit your CV and cover letter via Charity Jobs by 11:30pm Monday 18th May.

Successful applicants will be asked to complete a timed written task the week commencing 25th May and a final shortlist will be invited to interview at the ASH office in Vauxhall on Tuesday 9th June, with a start date as soon as possible.

We apologise that due to the expected high levels of applications we may not be able to reply to all candidates. If you have not heard from us by 25th May please assume you have not been shortlisted.

If cost is a barrier to attending a London-based interview, please let us know and we can help with booking your travel. Please let us know if you require any additional support or reasonable adjustments for the application or interview. We really want our process to feel accessible.

At ASH we are committed to ensuring our staff are representative of the diverse world around us and therefore we encourage candidates with a range of lived and professional experiences to apply. We particularly welcome applications from people of colour, LGBTQ+ people and disabled people. We will use positive action under the Equality Act 2010 to appoint from these underrepresented groups if two candidates are equally qualified.

Doing Good Recruitment is proud to be partnering with the Fundraising Regulator to recruit a Policy Officer to join its Policy Team.

This is a fantastic opportunity that will play a key role in shaping evidence‑based policy, supporting high standards in fundraising, and contributing to work that protects the public while enabling charities to thrive.

The Role

Reporting to the Policy Manager, you’ll be one of two Policy Officers working across a varied and engaging portfolio of work. This is a hands on role suited to someone who enjoys analysing evidence, writing clearly, and working collaboratively across teams and with external stakeholders. You do not need prior experience in policy or standards to be successful in this role.

You’ll be:

• Responding to enquiries from fundraisers 
• Analysing intelligence and data to identify trends and emerging issues
• Supporting the development of policy, standards and guidance
• Producing reports, briefings and public facing materials
• Working with charities, fundraisers, regulators and sector partners
• Representing the Fundraising Regulator at meetings and events

Who We Are

The Fundraising Regulator is the independent, non‑statutory body responsible for regulating fundraising across England, Wales and Northern Ireland. We own and maintain the Code of Fundraising Practice, setting the standards that apply to all fundraising organisations across the UK.

We work collaboratively with charities, regulators and sector bodies to build public confidence in fundraising, protect the public, and support best practice. Our team is around 40 people, including colleagues based in Wales and Northern Ireland.

Our Values

Our work is guided by four core values: learning, quality, supportive and collaborative.

We’re curious and open to new ideas, committed to high standards without perfectionism, and focused on creating a kind, flexible and inclusive working culture. We expect everyone who joins us to share and demonstrate these values.

Our Commitment to Equity, Diversity and Inclusion

The Fundraising Regulator is committed to diversity, equality and inclusion. We want our workforce to be truly representative of the society we are here to support and protect, so that we’re able to regulate effectively. We offer a fair and inclusive recruitment process and a flexible, supportive working environment. 

If you require any part of this application or interview process to be adjusted to accommodate your needs, please let us know.

About You

You may come from a policy, regulatory, analytical, research or similar professional environment. What matters most is your ability to analyse information critically, exercise sound judgement, and communicate complex ideas clearly in writing. You’ll enjoy working collaboratively, managing multiple priorities, and contributing to a small, supportive team.

You’ll have:

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Strong research, analytical and investigative skills
• The ability to interpret and apply standards or legal frameworks
• Confidence building and maintaining effective stakeholder relationships
• High ethical standards and a commitment to integrity

Desirable (but not essential):

• Familiarity with the Code of Fundraising Practice

Benefits

We offer a generous and flexible benefits package, including:

• Flexible and hybrid working
• 27 days’ annual leave, plus bank holidays and three days Christmas closure
• Generous pension contribution from day one
• Enhanced maternity, paternity and sickness pay
• Paid volunteering leave
• Eyecare vouchers
• Cycle to Work scheme and season ticket loans
• Ongoing learning and development
• Employee Assistance Programme

How to apply

We are partnering with Doing Good Recruitment on this appointment. If you require any adjustments to the recruitment process, please do let them know; we’re committed to making this process inclusive and accessible