Public affairs jobs

We are looking for a pragmatic, collaborative AI professional to join us as our AI Programme Manager at The Royal College of Radiologists (RCR). The clinical adoption of AI is becoming a central issue in medicine, and our specialities of radiology and oncology are at the forefront of this development. The RCR has a vital role to play in navigating the safe and effective implementation of this technology. This post is central to shaping the RCR’s position on AI, drawing on the expertise and insight of our members and fellows to ensure we remain leaders in this area. 

We are looking for an experienced programme manager to continue to drive the AI agenda, overseeing multiple programmes and collaborating effectively with multi-disciplinary stakeholder groups across the RCR and beyond. The ideal candidate will be proactive, analytical, and equally comfortable with strategic oversight and the finer detail of this complex, technical area. You do not need to be an AI specialist, but a strong interest in the subject and a working knowledge of NHS systems will be an advantage.

This role sits within our External Affairs team, reflecting the RCR’s commitment to engaging with and representing members and fellows on AI. You will build strong relationships with our data, policy, public affairs and media specialists, working together to strengthen the RCR’s member engagement and influencing work in this area. You will also collaborate with colleagues across the RCR who support the practical implementation of AI — for example, through developing guidance or planning our Global AI Conference. 

The successful candidate will be results-oriented, high-performing and a skilled communicator, with the ability to lead a team of ambitious and innovative professionals.

What you’ll do 

• Work with key internal and external stakeholders to deliver the College’s AI strategy, securing our position as a leading organisation in the healthcare AI space.
• Be the first point of contact for AI, both internally and externally. 
• Represent the College externally in meetings, groups and other forums, including as sole representative where required. 
• Manage AI workstreams in line with the College’s financial, contractual and HR delegation framework, from developing workstream plans to establishing and chairing advisory committees. 
• Identify and develop new AI projects as opportunities arise, building stakeholder buy-in and converting them into funded projects with tangible outcomes for the College. 
• Lead, motivate and support the AI team, fostering a productive and engaged working environment. 

What you’ll need 

• A keen interest in AI. 
• Strong programme management experience, particularly managing, evolving projects.
• Ability to work collaboratively and build and sustain effective working relationships with a diverse range of colleagues, partners and stakeholders at all levels. 
• Clear and analytical thinker.
• Ability to manage own time effectively and prioritise own work and work of others (officers) across a range of activities
• Experience leading a new area of work where flexibility, adaptability and opportunity spotting is key. 
• Self-starter, confident to initiate and progress work 

Our ambition is that the RCR leads the AI work in our specialities and your skills and ability to develop your AI knowledge, build relationships and lead projects of work could be what helps us achieve it. If this influential and exciting opportunity sounds like the role for you, we encourage you to find out more about it, the RCR and instructions on how to apply in the AI Manager 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

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.

Background

We are Humane World for Animals, formerly called the Humane Society of the United States and Humane Society International. Since 1954, we have worked to create a more humane society for animals. Working side by side as the Humane Society of the United States and Humane Society International, we have helped to pass thousands of landmark laws, rescue hundreds of thousands of animals, and cared for and protected millions more.

In 2025, to convey our mission and make sure that everyone understands who we are and the bold work that we do, our organisations are standing together under a new shared name: Humane World for Animals. 

We are dedicated to changing the world for animals. We drive change with human action. We help people, communities, governments, and corporations shift behaviour, providing the right support and advocating for policy change to stem the root causes of suffering and cruelty.

Purpose of role

As the Program Manager, Media and Communications, you will support the Program Director on the design, development and implementation of communication strategies and plans to advance Humane World for Animals UK’s strategic priorities with regard to campaigns, brand-building and fundraising. You will lead on producing and delivering a content strategy for a broad range of channels to increase audience engagement. The position will support campaigns and fundraising stewardship and give strategic advice regarding social media market insights and trends in the UK digital sphere and emerging channels. This will be vital to achieve successful brand building in the UK market through impactful storytelling, campaign activations, fundraising recruitment and stewardship through compelling content on the earned channels and holistic management of thematic work.

If you are results-oriented, organised and creative and have 5+ years of experience as a media and communications professional then we would like to hear from you.

Key areas of responsibility

• Communications strategy and planning:Lead the development and delivery of storytelling and social media strategies to support the UK’s wider communications strategy.Guide public affairs, campaigns, and fundraising colleagues in ideation sessions to develop creative and impactful activations.Provide insights on digital communications trends and opportunities.
• Content creation and storytelling:Produce high-quality digital content, including video, for use on social and digital channels.Turn campaign and policy work into clear, engaging stories.Collaborate with Head Office to integrate global storytelling content.
• Social media:  Plan, schedule and manage day-to-day (and occasional out-of-hours) social media activity, engaging online communities, managing paid social media advertising and delivering campaigns that support advocacy, fundraising and recruitment. Maintain the visual asset library and manage a social media volunteer.
• Influencer and partnership engagement:Identify and recruit influencers and celebrities to extend our reach and support our campaigns
• Administration: Monitor and report on performance using tools like Google Analytics and social monitoring platforms to guide continual improvement.Coordinate activities with colleagues using planning platforms.

About you

Our successful candidate will be confident, creative and positive with a proven track in media and communications roles. A proactive self-starter, you will have demonstrable experience of achieving significant growth and development in regard to audience reach and will take a solution-focused approach to overcoming obstacles. You will have experience of delivering media and communication strategies and plans in a fast-paced environment. You will have ambition and drive for creating positive change for animal welfare; a willingness to constantly learn and develop the most impactful, cost-effective communications for our target audiences; and your work will be solidly underpinned by regular evaluation of progress and impact with a view to further improving strategies.

We are searching for an experienced media and communications professional to make a difference and be part of our ambitious team. If that’s you, please get in touch!

Application Instructions

To apply for this role, please submit a copy of your CV and a cover letter outlining your interest in the role and how you fulfil the requirements set out in the job ad.

The deadline for applications is Thursday, 30 April 2026, 11pm GMT. Applications without covering letters will not be considered.

You must have an existing right to work in the UK, and you must reside in the UK, to be considered for this role. 

JOB TITLE: Campaign Manager  

CONTRACT: Permanent, Part Time (21 hours per week)

 *Working pattern to be discussed and agreed

ORGANISATION: Royal Life Saving Society UK (RLSS UK)

DEPARTMENT: Income Generation and Engagement

LOCATION: RLSS UK Head Office, Worcester/Hybrid

REPORTS TO: Senior Head of Communications and Marketing  

SALARY: £33,504.00 (Grade C) *Pro-rata for Part Time Hours

ABOUT RLSS UK

The Royal Life Saving Society UK (RLSS UK) is the leading charity for water safety and drowning prevention in the UK and Ireland. Our mission is to save lives by being the leader in lifesaving, lifeguarding, and water safety education, so everyone can enjoy water safely. We share our expertise, skills, and knowledge to empower people to enjoy water safely and achieve our vision: communities free from drowning.

JOB PURPOSE

The Campaign Manager will lead RLSS UK’s flagship national campaigns, ensuring they are insight-driven, behaviour-changing, and capable of empowering communities to stay safe around water.

Working collaboratively across the organisation and with external partners, you will create compelling, impactful campaigns that raise awareness, shift behaviours, elevate water safety standards, and bring our mission to life for millions of people.

This role is central to how RLSS UK educates, influences, and protects communities across the UK and Ireland.

ROLE OVERVIEW

From honing our campaign strategy to sparking collaborations with external organisations and delivering creative and engaging content, you’ll be a key player in shaping how RLSS UK and our work are seen by the public and partners.

You will lead the development and delivery of impactful, insight-driven campaigns that increase public awareness of both RLSS UK and the importance of water safety, share the skills and knowledge needed to prevent drowning, and engage and educate diverse audiences to amplify RLSS UK’s mission. Working closely with colleagues across marketing and communications, policy and public affairs, education, and membership, you will create compelling campaigns that inspire action, strengthen our brand presence, and educate.

You will collaborate with partners, members, stakeholders, supporters, and media outlets to ensure RLSS UK remains a trusted national voice in water safety. Through strategic storytelling, public mobilisation, and cross-channel campaign delivery, your work will help influence behaviours, shape understanding, and ultimately reduce accidental drownings.

KEY TASKS AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Campaign Leadership

• Lead, develop, and deliver RLSS UK’s major national public campaigns, including:

- Drowning Prevention Week

- Don’t Drink and Drown

- Splash Safely at Home

- Project manage the end-to-end‑ delivery of multichannel campaigns (digital, print, PR, in-person events,‑ and partner channels).

• Ensure all campaigns are insight-led, supported by relevant data and evidence, designed to be inclusive and accessible, and effectively reach audiences at higher risk of drowning.
• Support public-facing communications for policy and public affairs, including web, email, and social channels.
• Contribute to organisation-wide planning, ensuring campaigns support fundraising, education, and membership goals where appropriate.
• Develop end‑to‑end campaign journeys for supporters, partners, and stakeholders who engage with or pledge support, to deepen involvement, encourage advocacy, and maximise long‑term impact.
• Work proactively across internal directorates to co‑create and deliver campaigns that maximise reach, effectiveness, and impact.
• Conduct audience and stakeholder mapping for each campaign to identify priority groups, collaboration opportunities, and the most effective channels, partners, and messengers to maximise reach and impact.
• Ensure every campaign has a documented project plan, agreed before launch, with defined objectives, timelines, roles, and KPIs.

Creative Development & Content

• Produce engaging, accessible, and inclusive content that resonates with diverse audiences and consistently adheres to RLSS UK brand guidelines.
• Lead creative development, case study sourcing, storytelling, celebrity/influencer engagement, and campaign assets.
• Drive user‑generated content as a core engagement strategy, encouraging partners, members, and the RLSS UK community to share stories, visuals, and experiences that support campaign objectives.

Partnerships & Collaboration

• Build strong partnerships with communities and organisations, including emergency services, sports bodies, youth groups, and local authorities, to amplify campaign reach and impact.
• Support the participation of people with lived experience in campaigns, including bereaved families, with care and tact, ensuring authentic and meaningful involvement.
• Proactively identify and develop new partnerships, influencer and celebrity relationships to expand the reach, engagement and impact of each major campaign.

Delivery & Campaign Operations

• Oversee campaign production schedules, asset development, and delivery across all channels.
• Maintain campaign budgets and align spending with goals.
• Develop and maintain campaign‑specific brand guidance to support consistent use of RLSS UK messaging, tone of voice, and visual identity across all channels and audiences.
• Create and manage campaign packs for partners that set clear requirements for the correct use of the RLSS UK name, assets, messaging, and attribution, ensuring consistent representation across all partner activity.
• Ensure all campaign activity is consistent with RLSS UK brand guidelines, inclusive and accessible, on-brand, compliant, and aligned with RLSS UK’s strategic priorities.
• Ensure all campaign materials are reviewed and approved in line with RLSS UK brand governance processes prior to public launch.
   

Evaluation & Reporting

• Set clear campaign KPIs and monitor performance using robust, insight-driven metrics.
• Provide regular reporting on campaign reach, engagement, outcomes, and contribution to reducing drowning risk.
• Complete post‑campaign evaluations within agreed timeframes, identifying clear, actionable recommendations to inform continuous improvement across future campaigns.
• Use campaign evaluations, performance data, and insight to drive measurable year‑on‑year improvement in campaign outcomes, applying learning consistently to improve reach, engagement, and impact.

Other Duties & Responsibilities

• All other duties reasonably associated with your role, as directed by the Line Manager.
• Ensure compliance with UK GDPR and the Data Protection Act 2018 by complying with internal information governance policies and maintaining up-to-date documentation as part of RLSS UK’s compliance programme.
• To demonstrate and uphold the Society’s values and behavioural standards at all times.
• To help create an inclusive working environment where diversity is valued, everyone can contribute, and everyday actions ensure we meet our duty to uphold and promote equality.

This job description is not to be regarded as exclusive or exhaustive. It is intended as an outline indication of areas of activity and responsibility and will be amended in light of the changing needs of the organisation.

PERSON SPECIFICATION
Essential Relevant Experience, Skills and/or Aptitudes

• Proven experience in delivering multi-channel public campaigns
• Strong project management skills
• Ability to analyse insight and use data and evidence to translate learning into a campaign strategy
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Ability to collaborate across teams and with external partners
• Experience managing content development
• Understanding of how campaigns influence behaviour and public awareness
• Ability to create simple, compelling messaging and narratives from complex information
• Budget management experience

Desirable Relevant Experience, Skills and/or Aptitudes

• Experience of behaviour change campaigns
• Experience working with education charities, emergency services, or safety organisations
• Experience developing campaigns involving lived experience
• Ability to work collaboratively with senior stakeholders and celebrities

WHAT RLSS UK CAN OFFER YOU

• Annual Leave based on 27 days + Bank Holidays + a discretionary day off for your birthday
• Private Medical Scheme*
• Enhanced Society Sick Pay*
• Eye Care*
• Employee Assistance Programme via Health Assured
• Life Assurance Scheme
• Howdens Sports Benefits
• Free RLSS UK Membership
• Free tea and coffee when working from HQ, including access to our wonderful Coffee Machine
• Free on-site parking when working from HQ
• Company Events and more!

*Subject to eligibility criteria

YOUR APPLICATION

Please send your CV and a Cover Letter outlining why you should join our Income Generation and Engagement team

Closing Date – 11.59pm, Wednesday 13 May 2026

Interview Date – Thursday 21 and Friday 22 May 2026, at our Worcester Head Office (subject to change)

Should you wish to discuss the role, any reasonable adjustments you may require throughout the recruitment process, or have any questions, please get in touch where a member of the RLSS UK HR Department will be happy to help.

RLSS UK are a Disability Confident Committed Employer and an INclusive Worcestershire Leader.

Do you want to change people’s lives for the better? We’re looking for an tenacious, ambitious, dynamic and super organised campaigner to help win public services for people not profit. You’ll be persuasive, creative, and hungry for change in a challenging political landscape. Driven, determined and committed you’ll push forward campaigns at every stage to win victories. You'll have the opportunity to lead on campaigns you're passionate about and improve people’s lives with public ownership.

This role is a crucial part of the We Own It team and central to raising our profile and increasing our impact. Part of a small collaborative team working mostly remotely and sometimes in London, you’ll need to be tenacious in your approach to winning campaigns, highly self-motivated and able to work efficiently and autonomously. 

As Director of External Affairs across the Bild Group of four small charities (with collective turnover of approx. £3m/yr), you will have a deep commitment to human rights and improving people’s lives.

You will provide strategic direction and leadership to the External Relations function across all four charities in the group, taking overall responsibility for and providing thought-leadership on our strategic approach to policy, influencing, public affairs, stakeholder engagement. 

You will play a lead role in planning, developing, and implementing the communication and external relations and wider engagement strategic plan to grow awareness and profile of Bild, Respond, Restraint Reduction Network (RRN) and ACT.

By sharing the impact of our work and programmes in improving the lives of people with learning disabilities, autism and /or mental health conditions, you will support Bild in becoming the sector leading provider of organisational and workforce development (and RRN in becoming the leading charity in reducing restrictive practices globally – and Respond as leaders in trauma informed therapy).

You will champion Bild and RRN’s brand, vision, mission and values acting as an ambassador for the organisation both internally and externally to partners, stakeholders and media.

Key Responsibilities and Duties: 

Strategic Leadership:  

• Develop and implement an integrated communications and external relations strategy across the four charities in the group to raise our profile and to influence change which positively impacts on our beneficiaries, aligning media, campaigning, and public affairs with the charity’s mission and strategic priorities 

• Lead and inspire a high-performing team including Membership and Events Officer, Resources Coordinator and comms team as required 

Comms & Marketing:

• Plan, develop and implement strategic communications and marketing plans to maximise awareness of the Bild Group of charities across the broad spectrum of communications disciplines including media relations, stakeholder management, influencer engagement, ethical (impact focused) marketing, social and new media and the production of new materials and resources 

• Write, develop and produce materials such as infographics, press releases, briefing documents, media statements and online information suitable for stakeholders, including people with lived experience

• Ensure effective marketing across all four charities focusing on impact and including ensuring we attend a range of external events and that all four websites are best practice. 

Influencing & Public Affairs:  

• Working with the CEO, you will drive policy change by developing strategies to influence key decision makers through building relationships with parliamentarians, government departments, and sector stakeholders to ensure the charity's policy agenda is impactful 

• Lead proactive and reactive media engagement, calls and requests for information in order to capitalise on suitable opportunities for maximising the reach and impact of all four charities

• Build our credibility as a thought leader in the sector 

Stakeholder Engagement & Partnerships:  

• Build and sustain strategic alliances with senior civil servants, civil society groups, and community partners to increase the organization's influence and impact 

• Develop effective stakeholder relationship management processes that ensure partnerships of all levels are provided with a rich, immersive engagement experience with the organisation and the work that we do 

• Identify, liaise with and ensure positive relationships with key stakeholders – internal and external including media, government departments, partners, charities, providers, customers, other relevant parties to secure maximum impact for all four charities and their beneficiaries

Reputation, Brand Management & Marketing:  

• Champion the Bild group brands, promoting the mission, values and impact of the organisation and ensuring consistent, engaging narratives and high-quality storytelling across all external channels

• Shaping the charity's profile and protecting its reputation through media relations, digital engagement, and consistent key messaging and building our credibility as thought leaders in sector. 

Membership, Events & Communities:  

• By ensuring appropriate, effective and engaging communications to all relevant audiences and stakeholders, your role will support the growth and development of our membership, Communities of Practice and the event programme (including webinars and conferences).

• Effectively plan, manage and lead a range of events for the Bild group of charities and associated marketing and communications

• Develop framework for Communities of Practice and strategy for engagement and growth 

• Supporting Bild and RRN spokespeople with PR and media outreach

• Keep abreast of communications and engagement activity within the sector and demonstrate an awareness of the impact these may have on existing and future communications activity

General Responsibilities 

• Contribute to evaluation and assessment of results against KPIs and tracking activity

• Allocate, manage and evaluate budget spend

• Identify resource requirements for activity across Bild group

• Develop and maintain systems, databases and procedures to support Bild group communication activities

• Plan, monitor, appraise and report progress of activity regularly with an innate understanding of how this supports activity across the Bild group

• Plan, manage and oversee budgetary spend related to outsourcing specialist activities such as video editing and design

• Ensure communications and marketing work complies with data protection and other legal, professional and agency requirements, standards and policies

• Support the senior leadership team on any activity as required. 

Personal Development  

• Be part of a culture of quality in all areas of communications, PR and marketing

• Participate and contribute to individual performance appraisal and supervision sessions

• Keep abreast of relevant initiatives and developments within the adult health and social care, education & disability sector and the wider communications / engagement profession

• Undertake relevant training, as necessary including accessing new systems and software as required to support the role.

Organisational Responsibilities: 

• Access and work within Bild’s policies and procedures.  

• Attend internal cycle of team meetings relevant to this role.  

• Engage with line management, supervision (where appropriate) and appraisal process.  

• Comply with data protection regulations, ensuring that information on clients, employees, volunteers and other stakeholders remains confidential.  

• Take responsibility for personal learning and development with support from line manager.  

• Work in a manner that facilitates equal opportunities and inclusion for all.  

• Remain professional and respectful at all times, promoting positive relations with all those we encounter in our work.  

• Maintain health and safety and risk awareness for self and others across the organisation.  

• Undertake any other duties that Bild may require within the remit of this role.  

This job description does not form part of the contract of employment. It is intended as a guide to the general scope of duties and is not definitive or restrictive. It is expected that some duties will change over time and this description will be subject to review with the postholder at their annual appraisal.  

Person Specification  

Job Title 

Director of External Relations 

• Exceptional copy writing and verbal communication skills

• Good presenting, negotiating and influencing skills

• Excellent interpersonal skills and ability to build mutually beneficial relationships

• The ability to work effectively within a small team

• Ability to work under pressure, and plan, manage, and adapt own workload

• A flexible, proactive and problem-solving approach to work

• A motivated attitude and ability to work on own initiative 

• A commitment to human rights and modelling accessibility and inclusion throughout activity

• Willingness to travel and work flexible hours as demanded by the post

• Fit to undertake the duties of the post. 

Experience/Skills/Competencies 

Essential 

• Significant experience working in communications, policy and PR with demonstrable success

• PR and media management experience, including both online and traditional PR

• Experience of managing and implementing social media plans, including post development, scheduling, evaluation and monitoring feedback

• Experience of overseeing the design and production of print and electronic publications, including website management and development

• Experience of managing CRM systems and ensuring effective data capture and utilising data to inform decision making

• Ability to analyse data and shape results into reports that inform decision making

• Ability to build effective relationships and networks and establish credibility for Bild, RRN, Respond and Bild ACT 

• Ability to work collaboratively and develop positive relationships with colleagues, members and wider stakeholders

• Demonstrated digital comms / social media skills and understanding of emerging digital marketing tools and platforms

• Ability to use a variety of IT packages/databases including CRM systems.

• Experience managing budgets and associated reporting

• Ability to work remotely and regularly travel to in person events

• Time management skills and ability to prioritise workload under pressure as part of a small but vibrant team

• Strong awareness and interest in news/current affairs/politics and the broader third sector, social care and education sector. 

Desirable 

• Experience working in the not-for-profit sector, preferably in another disability and/or membership charity

• Strong understanding of education, health, social care, disability and not for profit environment

• Strong media contacts within relevant trade sector publications

• Ability to use externally managed media databases (such as Agility etc.)

• Experience with conferences, webinars and hybrid events. 

• Experience supporting and manging a remote team

Education and Qualifications: 

Other Requirements: 

• Commitment to anti-discriminatory practice and equal opportunities and able to apply awareness of diversity issues to all areas of work.  

• Regular travel to attend meetings and events. 

• Occasional evening meetings.  

Legal requirements: 

• Enhanced DBS check. 

• Job title: Policy and External Affairs Manager
• Area of work: Policy, Public Affairs & Stakeholder Engagement
• Contract type: Permanent
• Employment type: Full-time (with part-time and Flexible working options considered)
• Salary: £50,000 - £60,000
• Location: Hybrid working (office base in Wales, with travel across the UK as required)
• Annual leave & benefits: Generous annual leave, employer pension contribution, flexible and hybrid working, wellbeing support, learning and development opportunities, and staff networks
• Closing date: Thursday 30th April 2026

Overview
This is an influentialopportunity for an experienced policy and external affairs professional to playa leading role in shaping relationships, policy engagement and public affairsactivity within a national healthcare and regulation environment.
AsPolicy and External Affairs Manager, you will lead a small specialist team andact as a central source of expertise on the political, policy and stakeholderlandscape in Wales, while also contributing to UK-wide external affairsactivity. You will work closely with senior leaders and colleagues acrosspolicy, communications and engagement functions to anticipate emerging issues,develop responses, and strengthen relationships with key decision-makersand stakeholders.
Thisrole is ideal for someone with a strong background in health policy or publicaffairs, who enjoys operating at senior levels, providing trusted advice, andinfluencing in complex, multi-stakeholder environments.

Key Responsibilities
Policy Leadership & Strategic Advice

• Provide authoritative advice on the policy, legislative and political landscape, with a focus on healthcare and regulation.
• Lead horizon scanning and political monitoring, ensuring senior colleagues are briefed on emerging risks and opportunities.
• Produce high-quality briefings, policy papers and consultation responses to support organisational priorities.
• Advise senior leaders on external developments, helping shape strategic positioning and engagement approaches.

External Affairs & Stakeholder Engagement

• Lead and manage strategic relationships with key external stakeholders, including political, regulatory and sector bodies.
• Develop and deliver public affairs and stakeholder engagement plans, aligned to organisational strategy.
• Represent the organisation confidently at meetings, events, conferences and roundtables.
• Work collaboratively across UK-wide teams to ensure a coordinated approach to influencing and engagement.

Leadership & Team Management

• Provide inclusive and supportive leadership to a team of policy and external affairs professionals.
• Support team members' development, performance and wellbeing.
• Foster a culture of collaboration, high standards and continuous improvement.

Cross-Organisation Collaboration

• Work closely with colleagues across communications, engagement, policy and operational teams.
• Contribute to business planning, evaluation and continuous improvement activity.
• Play an active role in supporting high-profile engagement activity and events.

Skills & Experience Required
Essential

• Strong understanding of the political, public affairs and health policy landscape.
• Proven experience advising senior leaders and producing high-quality briefings and written advice.
• Demonstrable ability to build credibility and influence with senior external stakeholders.
• Excellent written communication skills, with the ability to translate complex information for varied audiences.
• Strong organisational skills and a track record of delivering complex work to deadlines.
• Experience working independently, using judgement and initiative.
• Leadership experience, with the ability to motivate, develop and support others.

Desirable

• Experience working within a UK-wide or multifunctionality organisation.
• Understanding of health or professional regulation.
• Experience presenting to a wide range of audiences.
• Welsh language skills.

The Team
You willjoin a collaborative, values-driven external affairs and engagement function thatworks closely with colleagues across policy, communications, stakeholderengagement and senior leadership.

The organisationoffers:

• Opportunities to influence nationally significant policy and external engagement.
• A supportive, inclusive working culture.
• Flexible and hybrid working arrangements.
• Strong commitment to learning, development and staff wellbeing.

A Welsh-language version of the job description is availableon request.

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The Role

What we're looking for

Essential criteria:

• Excellent project management, communication, presentation skills, report writing and drafting skills
• High level of initiative, problem solving and decision-making skills
• Excellent organisation skills and attention to detail
• Excellent ability to build, develop and maintain working relationships with other team members and with senior internal and external stakeholders
• Excellent analytical, computer and database skills

Please see the job description for more details.

What's in it for you

Do you want to change the world for vulnerable children?

The Consortium of Voluntary Adoption Agencies UK (CVAA) aims to improve adoption policy and practice across the UK for the benefit of children, challenging the adoption system to deliver for children and work in their best interests. Alongside advocating for system change, CVAA works to support our member voluntary adoption agencies (VAAs) across the four nations of the UK, stimulating innovation and ensuring they stay at the leading edge of practice. The active engagement of members and the building of collaborative alliances with others who seek positive change for children are essential to the effectiveness of our work.

The Head of Policy is a vital member of the small CVAA team, working closely with the CEO and Board of Trustees to champion the voluntary adoption sector and put children at the heart of everything we do. Due to maternity leave we have an exceptional and unique opportunity for someone who shares our passion to change the world for children, to gain valuable experience working at national level with senior stakeholders to contribute to system change, advocating for the power of adoption to change lives.

You will need strong people skills, experience of developing policy in consultation with stakeholders and using data to transform services and strengthen lobbying work. Most of all you need a cast iron commitment to change the world for vulnerable children.

CVAA works to challenge discrimination and disadvantage and welcomes applications from all communities, particularly those who are underrepresented in our sector, which includes but is not limited to people from Global Majority backgrounds, adoptees, men and those who identify as LGBTQ.

Key information

• Maternity Cover 1 year from July 2026
• Location - remote contract with occasional travel
• £40 – 45K depending on experience
• An enhanced DBS check is required for this role.

Applications

Please send a CV and letter of application, outlining your motivation for applying and the skills you offer, to Satwinder Sandhu (CEO) by 5pm on Friday 8th May 2026.

Both Satwinder (CEO) and Alice (Director of Strategy and Policy) are happy to have an informal chat about the role. Please email to arrange a convenient time to speak.

Initial online interviews via Microsoft Teams will be on Monday 18th and Tuesday 19th May, with final in-person interviews scheduled for Thursday 28th May 2026 in London. Please let us know whether you cannot make any of these dates in your application.

• Join us at the forefront of public health advocacy as the Non-Communicable Disease (NCD) Alliance Scotland Lead. This is a unique opportunity to shape the direction of our efforts to combat non-communicable diseases in Scotland. You will work closely with NCD Alliance Scotland members as well as government bodies, politicians, academics and third sector partners to drive impactful policy changes.
  
  If you are passionate about making a difference in public health, this role offers a platform to create lasting change and improve the health of communities across Scotland.
  
  As our NCD Alliance Scotland Lead, you’ll support all joint activity for the alliance, working with the chair, advisory board and members, building consensus within the alliance. Work will span policy development, public affairs and communications to ensure effective evidence-based policy around commercial determinants of health is at the forefront of the political agenda.
  
  About you
  
  With a deep understanding of the policy-making and the political process in Scotland, ideally with some knowledge of health policy and public health policy, you’ll have an extensive understanding of parliamentary procedure and government in Scotland, as well as an understanding of public policy and how it’s developed.
  
  You’ll have a proven track record of building and nurturing excellent relationships and exerting influence over external stakeholder’s agendas. You’ll also have previous 
  experience of having run or managed successful policy and/or public affairs work at a senior level, ensuring expectations, responsibilities and the purpose and vision for the team are clear and delivered.
  
  With experience of leading stakeholder relations in a high profile and/or complex organisation. You’ll also have the following skills and experience:

  • Outstanding communication and interpersonal skills, able to present with credibility and gravitas to external audiences.
  • Excellent writing skills, able to provide concise written and oral briefings on complex issues, often at short notice.
  • Ability to work calmly, quickly and accurately under pressure of tight deadlines. 
  • Proven leadership skills whilst being a team player.
  • Ability to develop and implement strategies and plans, ensuring that initiatives and activities are organised, prioritised and delivered successfully.
  • Excellent time management and organisation skills.

  Working arrangements
  
  Please note this is a fixed term contract for 18 months.
  
  This is a hybrid role, where your work will be split between your home and at least one day per week, on average, in our Edinburgh Office. This may vary from time to time, so you will need to work in a flexible way to unlock your best work for our cause.
  
  The work will require some evening and weekend work as well as travel that may require overnight stays. There will also be an opportunity to visit BHF offices in Belfast, Cardiff and London.
  
  Belonging at BHF
  
  By embracing diversity and fostering an inclusive environment, we strengthen our ability to achieve our mission of saving and improving lives, ensuring our work reflects and serves the needs of every community across the UK.  
  
  To hear from our people, check out Belonging at BHF.  
  
  Our people are at the heart of everything we do. By funding research across six decades, we’ve helped keep millions of hearts beating and millions of families together. We’re investing in ground-breaking research that will get us closer than ever to a world where everyone has a healthier heart for longer.
  
  Benefits
  
  We offer a competitive range of benefits designed to support your wellbeing, and opportunities for personal and professional growth and continuous learning.  
  
  To find out more about our benefits you can download the Benefits document at the bottom of this page or check out our Benefits and Development pages.   
  
  Need more help balancing your work and home life? Talk to us about what flexibility is available at the application or interview stage.
  
  Interview process
  
  Interviews will be held in person at our Edinburgh offices on Wednesday 13th May. A presentation element will be included in the interview process. 
  
  How to apply
  
  To apply for this role please use the apply button below. Our process involves submitting your CV and a supporting statement, which should outline your interest and explain how you meet the role’s criteria. 
  
  Our recruitment processes are fair, accessible, and inclusive. BHF use anonymous CV software as part of the application journey.  
   
  Should you need any adjustments to the recruitment process, at either application or interview, please contact us. 

“The go-to organisation for a public health perspective”.

(Senior UK Government official)

The Association of Directors of Public Health (ADPH) is the representative body for Directors of Public Health in the UK. It has a rich heritage, with its origins dating back more than 160 years and is a collaborative organisation working in partnership with others to maximise the voice for public health.

We are now seeking a new Chief Executive Officer to lead the organisation through the next phase of its evolution, maintaining and building upon its established reputation and influence. The role requires a wide-ranging set of skills, capabilities and experience, proven leadership and credibility at the highest level. The successful candidate will have strong negotiating and influencing skills, and the ability to work independently, with board-level accountability, and be expected to develop and sustain extensive national networks across local authorities, the NHS, the voluntary sector and central Government. Possessing an adaptability in working practice together with a self-motivated, proactive approach that performs well under pressure, the successful candidate will be educated to Masters level with ongoing study in public health. In addition, they should have senior management training or equivalent experience and a clear record of continuing professional development. Experience should include at least five years in the public health environment, including in policy development, plus a minimum of three years in operational, financial and resource management.

Accountable to our Board of Trustees and the wider membership, the new CEO will develop the strategic direction of the Association and lead the organisation to deliver a rolling medium-term Strategic Business Plan, balanced budgets and effective governance in compliance with company and charity law. An ability to prioritise planned and reactive work programmes to meet the needs of our membership is required, alongside the sourcing and delivery of timely bids for external funding together with the management of staff and resources to ensure value for money and staff wellbeing.

The post holder will support the President, Vice‑President, Board and ADPH Council by applying public health knowledge through teaching, coaching, publishing and presenting as appropriate, maintaining a personal programme of continuing professional development, and be expected to uphold the Association’s values of members first, excellence, collaboration, inclusion and professionalism. Occasional travel, throughout the UK, and flexibility for occasional evening or weekend work will also be necessary.

To apply, submit a CV and a covering letter outlining your leadership experience, strategic achievements and vision for supporting Directors of Public Health across the UK.

Job Summary

We are seeking an individual with experience in communications and public affairs, to develop the campaigning activity of the First 1001 Days Movement.  The Movement is a campaigning alliance of over 200 charities and professionals who work together to inspire, support and challenge decision makers to value and invest in babies’ emotional wellbeing and healthy development.

The Movement is hosted by the Parent-Infant Foundation – the only national charity driving the growth and quality of parent-infant teams, across the UK. 

This is the perfect role for an organised and motivated individual who shares our commitment to making sure every baby gets the best start in life. You will have the opportunity to build relationships with parliamentarians and leading charities in the sector.

This is a home-based role, working closely with colleagues at the Parent-Infant Foundation, and with the First 1001 Days Movement’s Steering Group. 

Salary: £28,476 - £31,640 per annum  (pro-rata £22,780 – £25,312)

Hours: 30 hours per week 
Contract Type: Permanent 
Job Type: Part time 
Location: Home-based (UK, with regular meetings in Belfast) 
 
We speak up for all who cycle to make sure it’s a safe and easy choice for everyone to travel, explore and have fun. We are almost two years into our ambitious organisational strategy, and this is an exciting moment to join Cycling UK as our Northern Ireland Advocacy and Development Lead. 
 
As our Advocacy and Development Lead you will be Cycling UK’s representative in Northern Ireland. You will be responsible for exploring and developing opportunities for delivery work in Northern Ireland, with support from colleagues from the Behaviour Change, Business Development and Commercial teams. 
 
The scope of the Northern Ireland Advocacy and Development Lead role is wide-ranging, touching on campaigns, policy, public affairs and business and programme development. You will seek out, establish and nurture relevant relationships and partnerships, with support from colleagues across the charity. You will be the face and voice of Cycling UK in Northern Ireland, helping to raise our profile, improve our reputation, increase our influence and help deliver a broad range of the charity’s strategic objectives. 
 
We are an inclusive organisation and would particularly welcome applications from candidates from a broad range of backgrounds. We strongly believe that diversity strengthens our work. If you are already passionate about cycling, that’s great, many of us are too. But if you are simply really excellent at what you do, no matter what your background, that is what matters most to us. 
 
Explore the attached job description for full details on this exciting opportunity. Complete the application form expressing why you are the right candidate for this opening. Focus on gearing your supporting statement to exemplify how your skills and experience match the requirements of the role, directly referring to the person specification. This enables the selection panel to assess your relative strengths against the specified criteria. 
The role is home-based in the UK, with regular meetings in Belfast and occasional travel to other parts of the UK as required. 
 
Applications close at 9:00am on the closing date shown. 
 
Benefits 
 
27 days holiday plus bank holidays (pro rata for part time roles), perk scheme access, life assurance, paid compassionate leave, enhanced sick pay, Cycling UK membership plus many more staff benefits. 
 
You may have experience in the following: Advocacy Lead, Policy and Campaigns Lead, Public Affairs Manager, Development Manager, Programme Development Lead, Charity Advocacy Manager, External Affairs Manager, Campaigns and Policy Officer, Cycling Advocacy Officer, Transport Policy Manager, Active Travel Lead, Community Partnerships Manager, Stakeholder Engagement Manager. 
 
REF-227 906

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

We offer hybrid working.

About Us

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

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

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

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

The Benefits

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

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

The Role

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

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

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

- purpose

- brand

- public affairs

- reputation (including crisis management and responses to complaints)

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

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

Specifically, you will:

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

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

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

Brand

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

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

Process and Governance

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

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

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

About You

To be considered for this role, you will need:

· To be educated to degree level or equivalent.

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

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

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

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

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

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

· To have excellent collaboration, prioritisation and communication skills.

· To have Integrity and discretion when handling privileged information.

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

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

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

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

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

Application

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

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

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

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