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- Tasks: Lead national policy and contractual negotiations for doctors in Wales.
- Company: Join the British Medical Association, the voice of UK doctors.
- Benefits: Enjoy 30 days holiday, hybrid working, and a generous pension scheme.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on healthcare while developing your skills in a supportive environment.
- Qualifications: Experience in policy development or contract management is essential.
- Other info: Hybrid work model with a focus on inclusivity and diversity.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
The British Medical Association (BMA) is the trade union and professional body for doctors in the UK. We represent, support and negotiate on behalf of all UK doctors and medical students. Join the BMA at a crucial time for doctors and the NHS and be part of a team working for better pay and conditions for the profession.
About the role
We are currently looking for a Senior Policy Adviser, specialising in pay and contractual negotiations, to join BMA Cymru Wales’ policy and committee services team. This role will lead the planning, delivery and implementation of national policy, pay and contractual negotiations, working directly with senior representatives of Welsh Government and NHS Wales Employers.
The role will provide strategic advice and support to senior staff, elected committee officers and a variety of BMA committee members on the requirements, objectives and strategies to underpin their negotiations. Other duties include developing briefings, guidance and other practical support materials on complex contractual matters - whilst engaging with the wider profession to determine, agree and articulate detailed negotiating positions. The role will also have responsibility for working with colleagues to coordinate the delivery of a range of local campaigns, supporting members to secure improvements in their places of work.
To succeed in this role, you will need to:
- Be adept at influencing senior figures and managing relationships
- Have experience of policy development or contract management in a health or health-related context
- Have excellent research, verbal and written communication skills
- Develop and maintain expertise on the BMA’s methodology for conducting negotiations and taking a lead in training others
- An ability to work collaboratively and support knowledge sharing across internal teams
- Ability to maintain trust and manage a complex workload
- An understanding of collective bargaining and/or experience in a membership-based organisation is desirable.
The successful applicant will be based in our Cardiff office where we operate a hybrid working arrangement (two days per week based in the office and three days at home, around business need).
Why work for us?
We offer a wide range of benefits including:
- 30 days holiday entitlement plus bank holidays and a BMA company day
- Double matching pension contributions up to 12% of salary
- Additional leave entitlement for volunteering or moving house (after completion of probationary period)
- Access to a 24/7 Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) with free confidential counselling, a helpline and specialist support available
- BMA Law - discounted rates for employees requiring legal services such as will writing/conveyancing
- Multiple flexible benefits and discounts through our employee benefits platform
- Lots of Learning and Development/training opportunities via our internal learning hub
- Season ticket loan (up to £10,000) after completion of probationary period
The BMA endeavours to be an inclusive employer, ensuring fairness and consistency to select the best candidate for roles. To support our aims, we use specific software to remove all personal identifying information from CVs and applications. Personal information such as name, date of birth, age and gender are anonymised and will only become visible to hiring managers if you are selected for interview.
Whether the role needs you to work at home, in an office or in a hybrid way, we’ll provide all the support you need. If this sounds like the right opportunity for you, please apply through our website. However, if you require any reasonable adjustments or additional support at any point during the application process, please email recruitment@bma.org.uk.
Diversity & Inclusion Monitoring:
Our ambition is to work together to promote a more inclusive environment, which attracts everybody with the right skills and experience and signals our commitment to celebrate and promote diversity. BMA is committed to the equal treatment of all current and prospective employees and does not condone discrimination on the basis of age, disability, sex, sexual orientation, pregnancy and maternity, race or ethnicity, religion or belief, gender identity, or marriage and civil partnership. We want people to bring their unique blend of experiences, backgrounds, perspectives and knowledge as we recognise that diversity makes us stronger.
Please note, we are unable to provide sponsorship under the UK points-based immigration system, as we do not hold a sponsorship licence.
Senior Policy Advisor employer: BRITISH MEDICAL ASSOCIATION
Contact Detail:
BRITISH MEDICAL ASSOCIATION Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Policy Advisor
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the current issues facing doctors and the NHS in Wales. Understanding the local context will help you engage effectively with senior representatives and demonstrate your commitment to the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the health policy sector, especially those involved in negotiations. Building relationships can provide insights into the BMA's methodologies and enhance your credibility during discussions.
✨Tip Number 3
Stay updated on recent developments in collective bargaining and contract management within the healthcare system. This knowledge will be crucial for articulating negotiating positions and providing strategic advice.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare to showcase your experience in policy development by thinking of specific examples where you've influenced outcomes or managed complex relationships. This will highlight your suitability for the role during interviews.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Policy Advisor
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Before applying, make sure you fully understand the responsibilities and requirements of the Senior Policy Advisor position. Tailor your application to highlight your relevant experience in policy development and contractual negotiations.
Craft a Strong CV: Your CV should clearly outline your experience in influencing senior figures and managing relationships. Include specific examples of your work in health-related contexts and any relevant achievements that demonstrate your skills.
Write a Compelling Cover Letter: In your cover letter, express your passion for the role and the BMA's mission. Discuss how your background aligns with their needs, particularly in collective bargaining and supporting members in their workplaces.
Proofread Your Application: Ensure that your application is free from spelling and grammatical errors. A polished application reflects your attention to detail and professionalism, which are crucial for a role that involves strategic advice and communication.
How to prepare for a job interview at BRITISH MEDICAL ASSOCIATION
✨Understand the BMA's Mission
Before your interview, make sure you have a solid grasp of the British Medical Association's mission and values. Familiarise yourself with their current initiatives, especially those related to pay and contractual negotiations, as this will show your genuine interest in the role.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect questions that assess your ability to influence senior figures and manage relationships. Prepare specific examples from your past experiences where you've successfully navigated complex negotiations or policy developments in a health-related context.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
As excellent verbal and written communication skills are crucial for this role, practice articulating your thoughts clearly and concisely. You might be asked to explain complex contractual matters, so being able to simplify these concepts will be key.
✨Demonstrate Collaborative Spirit
The BMA values teamwork and knowledge sharing. Be ready to discuss how you've worked collaboratively in previous roles, particularly in developing strategies or campaigns. Highlight any experience you have in training others, as this aligns well with the responsibilities of the position.
