At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead policy and strategy initiatives to drive positive change in local government.
- Company: Join Barnsley Council, a dynamic organisation focused on community impact.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working, competitive salary, generous holidays, and professional development opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in local governance while working with influential stakeholders.
- Qualifications: Experience in policy advice, strong analytical skills, and excellent relationship-building abilities.
- Other info: Collaborative culture with opportunities for growth and impactful work.
The predicted salary is between 51356 - 54495 £ per year.
Overview
Position reference: 50035389
Directorate: Core Services | Service: Chief Exec's Office
Salary: £51,356 - £54,495 plus laptop
Working Arrangements: Hybrid, minimum three days in the office
Hours per week: 37
Contract type: Permanent
Closing date: 20/02/2026 at 23:59
Note: This post is politically restricted. A Basic Criminal Record Check is required. Prospective employees will be asked to account for any significant periods abroad in the past 3 years. Applicants should be prepared to start work with the necessary legal documents, such as a valid visa. The organisation does not provide sponsorship for skilled or temporary migrant workers.
At Barnsley Council: we offer flexible working, rewards, health and wellbeing support, training and development opportunities, and a focus on making a real difference in the community.
Your Role
- Lead the SIGOMA work programme in a fast-paced environment.
- Develop and implement SIGOMA’s policy and strategy framework to deliver member priorities.
- Provide high-level policy advice and detailed technical analysis of local government funding to the Chair of SIGOMA and senior stakeholders, including elected members and national organisations.
- Manage relationships with diverse internal and external stakeholders (government departments, local authorities, officer groups, technical working groups).
- Manage SIGOMA’s communications strategy including press, lobbying activity and social media.
- Represent SIGOMA at national meetings, influence policy discussions, and present expert papers.
- Lead a small team, including line management of a Research and Communications Officer.
What We Offer
- Opportunity to work directly for SIGOMA’s influential Chair.
- Work at the forefront of local government policy with national reach.
- Varied and impactful work with opportunities for professional development.
- Collaborative culture based in the Office of the Chief Executive at Barnsley Council, with flexible working and valued contributions.
- Competitive salary and benefits package, including flexible working arrangements and generous holiday allowances.
Requirements
- Proactive, responsive, and flexible with a passion for driving positive change in local government.
- Strong interpersonal skills and ability to build relationships with diverse stakeholders.
- Extensive experience providing policy advice to senior officers and elected politicians; understanding of local and national government issues.
- Strong analytical skills with experience in researching local government finance and socio-economic measures.
- Experience managing communications, including press engagement and social media.
- Excellent organisational abilities and attention to detail; ability to manage multiple priorities.
- Experience managing staff, projects and competing priorities in a fast-paced environment.
- Level 7 qualification in a relevant subject or Level 5 with extensive equivalent experience.
Additional Information
Deadline: Friday 20 February; Interview date: Friday 27 February (in person only). For more information, contact Florence Drew at FlorenceDrew@barnsley.gov.uk or apply online. Please view the job profile and related documents, and note that CVs are not accepted for this role. Barnsley Council is committed to inclusive hiring and does not discriminate. We welcome applicants with past convictions.
Policy and Strategy Manager in Barnsley employer: Barnsley Council
Contact Detail:
Barnsley Council Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Policy and Strategy Manager in Barnsley
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in your field, especially those connected to local government or policy. Attend events, join relevant groups, and don’t be shy about asking for informational interviews. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the organisation and its current projects. Familiarise yourself with SIGOMA’s work and think about how your skills can contribute. Practice answering common interview questions, but also be ready to discuss specific policies and strategies you’d implement.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your communication skills! Whether it’s through social media or during networking events, share your insights on local government issues. This not only demonstrates your expertise but also helps you build a personal brand that aligns with the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, keep an eye on our job postings for similar roles that might pop up. We’re always looking for passionate individuals to join us in making a difference!
We think you need these skills to ace Policy and Strategy Manager in Barnsley
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to highlight how your skills and experiences align with the role of Policy and Strategy Manager. Use keywords from the job description to show that you understand what we're looking for.
Showcase Your Experience: When detailing your past roles, focus on your experience in providing policy advice and managing communications. We want to see how you've influenced policy discussions and built relationships with stakeholders.
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so avoid jargon and ensure your key achievements stand out. This will help us quickly see why you're a great fit for the team.
Apply Through Our Website: Don't forget to submit your application through our official website! This ensures we receive all the necessary information and helps us keep track of your application efficiently.
How to prepare for a job interview at Barnsley Council
✨Know Your Policy Inside Out
Make sure you’re well-versed in local government policies and the specific issues facing Barnsley Council. Brush up on SIGOMA’s work programme and be ready to discuss how your experience aligns with their priorities.
✨Showcase Your Stakeholder Skills
Prepare examples of how you've successfully managed relationships with diverse stakeholders. Think about times when you’ve influenced policy discussions or engaged with the press, as these will be key in this role.
✨Demonstrate Analytical Prowess
Be ready to talk about your analytical skills and provide examples of your research into local government finance. Highlight any socio-economic measures you’ve worked with and how they’ve informed your policy advice.
✨Prepare for Team Leadership Questions
Since you’ll be leading a small team, think about your management style and how you motivate others. Prepare to discuss your experience in managing projects and competing priorities in a fast-paced environment.