At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead policy and communications to end homelessness in Wales.
- Company: Crisis, the national charity dedicated to ending homelessness.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible working, and generous leave options.
- Other info: Join a diverse team committed to making a difference.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on homelessness legislation and advocate for change.
- Qualifications: Experience in policy change and strong communication skills required.
Crisis is the national charity for people experiencing homelessness. We have embarked on our 10-year strategy for ending homelessness. We know it is not inevitable. We know together we can end it.
This is an extremely exciting time to join the team, as we anticipate the implementation of new homelessness legislation that holds the potential to be world leading and seek to develop relationships with the newly elected Senedd and Welsh Government. You will lead our agenda in Wales to achieve positive and lasting change to end homelessness.
Location: Crisis Skylight South Wales, 163 St Helens Road, Swansea, SA14DQ. Option of hybrid working from home (minimum 1 day a week in the Skylight) with the ability to travel across Wales and within the UK for training and meetings.
Contract: Fixed term up to 11 months (available as a secondment)
Salary: £57,452 per annum
As Head of Policy and Communications in Wales you will lead a team working across policy, public affairs and communications to deliver the changes needed to address homelessness in Wales. After the formation of a new government in Wales, this role will be working closely with politicians, government officials, sector leads, and people with lived experience of homelessness to ensure Crisis’ goal of ending all forms of homelessness in Wales is a priority and bring about the changes needed to meet this goal.
To be successful in this role you will have excellent knowledge and experience of developing and securing policy change at a national government level and raising the profile of an organisation through advocacy and strategic communications. Ideally you will have experience across policy, public affairs and media work, and excel at building stakeholder relations. You will be an experienced spokesperson and understand how to communicate policy matters in a simple and concise way. You will have understanding and knowledge of developing policy and influencing objectives informed by frontline staff and working with people with lived experience of an issue and staff.
We realise that long lists of criteria can be daunting, and you may not want to apply for a role unless you feel 100% qualified. However, if you feel you have relevant examples to answer the screening questions, we encourage you to apply. We believe diversity is a strength, and our aim is to make sure that Crisis truly reflects the communities we serve. We are actively working towards our organisation being a place where everyone can thrive and make their best contribution to our mission of ending homelessness for good. We know that the more perspectives, voices, and experiences we can bring to this work, the better. We particularly welcome applications from people who have lived experience of homelessness, and people from all marginalised groups, communities and backgrounds.
Our values, Bold, Impactful, Collaborative and Equitable, are at the heart of everything we do as we continue in our mission to end homelessness. Our staff, members and volunteers are vital to getting the right government policies in place, providing breakthrough services, and building a supportive community. We’ll lead by example to nurture a positive and ambitious workplace guided by ending homelessness.
As a member of the team, you will have access to a wide range of employee benefits including:
- A competitive salary. Please note our salaries are fixed to counter inequity and we do not negotiate at offer stage
- Interest free loans for travel season ticket, cycle to work, and deposit to secure a tenancy
- Pension scheme with an employer contribution of 8.5%
- 28 days’ annual leave (pro rata) which increases with service to 31 days and the option to purchase up to 10 additional days leave
- Flexible working around the core hours 10am-4pm
- And more! (Full list of benefits available on website)
Alongside our excellent staff benefits, we will support your ongoing development to build your skills, experience and career. When you join us, you will have the opportunity to join our staff diversity networks, which aim to champion issues across the organisation, enable staff to be their authentic and best selves and contribute to making Crisis a truly diverse organisation.
How do I apply? Please click on the 'Apply for Job' button below. Our shortlisting process is anonymised as part of our commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusion. We do not ask for CVs, instead we ask you complete the work history section and answer the screening questions for us to be able to assess you fairly and objectively. At least two members of staff score all applications.
Closing date: Sunday 14th June at 23:59
Interview date and location: Friday 26th June, in-person at Crisis Skylight South Wales, 163 St Helens Road, Swansea, SA14DQ
Accessibility: We want our recruitment process to be as accessible as possible. If you need us to make an adjustment or provide additional support as you apply for a role, please email us and our Talent Acquisition team will contact you to discuss how we can help.
Head of Policy and Communications in Wales employer: CRISIS UK-1
Crisis is an exceptional employer dedicated to ending homelessness, offering a supportive and collaborative work culture that values diversity and inclusion. With a competitive salary, generous leave policies, and opportunities for professional development, employees are empowered to make a meaningful impact in their communities while enjoying the flexibility of hybrid working arrangements from our Swansea location. Join us in this pivotal role to lead policy and communications efforts that drive positive change in Wales, all while being part of a passionate team committed to making a difference.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Policy and Communications in Wales
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in your field, especially those connected to homelessness policy and communications. Attend events, join relevant groups, and don’t be shy about introducing yourself. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching Crisis and its mission. Understand the current homelessness landscape in Wales and think about how your experience aligns with their goals. This will help you stand out and show that you're genuinely passionate about making a difference.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your communication skills! As a potential Head of Policy and Communications, you’ll need to convey complex ideas simply. Grab a friend or family member and explain your thoughts on homelessness policy to them. If they get it, you’re on the right track!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the Crisis team and contributing to ending homelessness in Wales.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Policy and Communications in Wales
Some tips for your application 🫡
Read the Job Pack:Before diving into your application, make sure to check out the full Job Pack. It’s packed with all the details you need about the role and what we’re looking for, so you can tailor your application to shine!
Be Yourself:We want to hear your unique voice! Don’t be afraid to share your personal experiences and insights. Authenticity is key, especially when it comes to communicating your passion for ending homelessness.
Answer the Screening Questions Thoughtfully:Take your time with the screening questions. They’re your chance to showcase your skills and experiences that align with our mission. Make sure to provide relevant examples that highlight your expertise in policy and communications.
Apply Through Our Website:When you’re ready, hit that 'Apply for Job' button on our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us directly, and remember, we’re excited to see what you bring to the table!
How to prepare for a job interview at CRISIS UK-1
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you have a solid understanding of homelessness issues in Wales and the new legislation being introduced. Familiarise yourself with Crisis' mission and values, as well as recent developments in policy that could impact your role.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Prepare specific examples from your past work that demonstrate your ability to influence policy and build stakeholder relationships. Be ready to discuss how you've successfully communicated complex ideas in a simple way, especially to non-experts.
✨Engage with Lived Experience
Highlight any experience you have working with people who have lived experience of homelessness. This will show your commitment to understanding the issue from all angles and your ability to advocate effectively for those affected.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Prepare insightful questions about Crisis' current initiatives and future goals. This not only shows your interest in the role but also demonstrates your strategic thinking and understanding of the broader context of homelessness in Wales.
