Job Title Policy Adviser - Employed dentists
Report to Senior Policy Adviser
Department Policy and Research
Salary £39,554 to £46,248 per annum (dependent on experience)
Hours of work Full-time - (32-hour, four-day week) - Permanent
Direct URL:
About the BDA
The BDA is the voice of dentists and dental students in the UK. We are the trade union, professional association and scientific society for dentists. Our work brings dentists together to represent their interests to Government and the NHS and to campaign for policy changes as well as providing support to our members through advice and education.
As a membership organisation, the BDA's duty is to serve the needs of its members.
As a trade union, our fundamental belief is that together, we can achieve more than we could individually.
We believe that members are at the heart of everything we do. Together, we are stronger. As an organisation, we will be inclusive; support our members throughout their professional lives; use our influence for the benefit of members, the dental profession and patients; and share our collective knowledge and expertise.
About the role
This role is focused on developing policy and seeking policy change. You'll identify policy problems facing our members, develop solutions, and then work to influence stakeholders to deliver change. You will play an active role in shaping health policy.
This might involve developing a plan to improve contractual terms and conditions and negotiating these with employer representatives or developing evidence-based arguments to increase pay to submit to the pay review body.
We are a member-led trade union and professional association, and so this role will work closely with elected leaders and our democratic committees. This will include providing secretarial support to a number of committees.
This role line manages our Committee Officer.
About you
You'll have an interest in health policy and a knowledge of how public policy is made, shaped, influenced and implemented. You'll be able to use evidence and data to inform policy analysis.
You’ll be aware of trade unions and professional associations, and be motivated by working in a member-led environment. You'll share our commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion.
You’ll be an excellent communicator, able to both write fluently and persuasively and build interpersonal relationships. You'll be diplomatic and have political awareness.
You’ll have strong organisational and prioritisation skills, with a keen attention to detail and the ability to work actively under pressure.
You’ll want to make a contribution to a wider team, while also feeling confident working independently.
It is desirable, but not essential, that you have experience of working to deliver policy change, working with committees, and experience of developing policy in a healthcare or other setting.
About the team
You will be joining a team of policy and research professionals who are motivated by making a difference for the BDA's members and the patients they care for. We pride ourselves on our ability to achieve policy change, our extensive collective knowledge of dentistry and the high-quality secretarial support we provide to our policy making committees. We strive to improve the working lives of dentists and support efforts to improve the oral health of the nation. We gather evidence and knowledge from our elected committees, and conduct research and policy analysis, to influence, persuade and negotiate on pay, contracts, terms and conditions, and other policies that impact dentists and their patients. We drive change through direct engagement with decision and policy-makers, such as the Government and the NHS, as well as through cross-team working to influence wider stakeholders, politicians and the public.
We offer
- Four-day working week arrangement
- Generous pension scheme
- 22 days annual leave, 4 additional 'employer' days and 8 bank holidays
- Recognition of Length of Service
- Healthy lifestyle subsidy
- Health cash plan
- Eye test vouchers
- Employee Assistance Programme
- Family-friendly policies
- Collaborative, inclusive, and welcoming team environment.
At the BDA, we are committed to building a diverse, inclusive, and respectful workplace where everyone feels valued and supported. We are proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer and Investor in People. We welcome applications from all qualified candidates, regardless of race, colour, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, age, disability, or national origin. We believe that diverse perspectives strengthen our team and help us better serve our members.
BDA cannot offer visa sponsorship as we are not a licensed sponsor.
Application close: Midday, Thursday 15 October 2026
Job Interviews: Week commencing Monday 2 November 2026
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Policy Adviser - Employed dentists in City of London employer: British Dental Association
The BDA is an exceptional employer, offering a collaborative and inclusive work culture that prioritises the well-being of its employees. With a generous benefits package including a four-day working week, a robust pension scheme, and a commitment to professional development, the BDA empowers its team members to thrive while making a meaningful impact in the dental profession across Scotland. Join us in a flexible working environment that values diversity and supports your growth as you contribute to the future of dentistry.
Contact Details:
British Dental Association Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Policy Adviser - Employed dentists in City of London
✨Join Medical Networks
Get involved in local and national medical associations, like the Royal College of Physicians. These networks can help you connect with mentors and colleagues who might know of openings, plus they're great for staying updated on the latest in medicine and clinical practices.
✨Attend Healthcare Conferences
Make it a habit to attend medical conferences and seminars. These events are fantastic for networking and often feature job boards where hospitals and clinics post their openings. Plus, it’s a good way to get your face recognised in the industry.
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Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Credentials:When applying for a physician role, make sure to highlight your medical qualifications and any special certifications you have. We want to see your medical degree, residency training, and any additional certifications that set you apart, like specialised training in paediatrics or geriatrics. Don’t leave out those all-important letters after your name!
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How to prepare for a job interview at British Dental Association
✨Get Clinical Knowledge Sharp
Brush up on your clinical knowledge, particularly in areas relevant to the role at British Dental Association. Expect questions about diagnosis, treatment plans, and patient management. Be ready to discuss case studies or even do some role-playing with hypothetical patient scenarios for a more practical assessment.
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Make sure you’re clued up on the latest medical trends, research, and innovations. Not only does this prepare you for technical questions, but it also shows your passion for the field. Be ready to discuss how these trends might affect your practice at British Dental Association.
