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- Tasks: Lead the development of strategies for skills and employment in the East Midlands.
- Company: Join a purpose-driven organisation focused on inclusive growth and regional development.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, hybrid working, and opportunities to influence policy.
- Other info: Collaborative environment with a focus on partnership and community engagement.
- Why this job: Shape the future of skills and employment while making a real impact.
- Qualifications: Experience in policy development and strong communication skills required.
The predicted salary is between 47181 - 52413 ÂŁ per year.
Directorate: Strategy and Inclusive Growth
Grade: F17 - Salary: ÂŁ47,181-ÂŁ52,413
Contract: Full time - Secondment 12 Months
Location: Chesterfield, East Midlands (Hybrid – 2 Days in the Office)
This is a politically restricted post.
Shape the Future of Skills and Employment in the East Midlands. EMCCA has an ambitious vision: to deliver inclusive growth and maximise the benefits of mayoral devolution for our region. We are seeking an exceptional Senior Policy Lead – Skills and Employment to shape and drive our strategy across employment, workforce development, and skills funding. This is a high-impact role at the heart of regional devolution — working closely with senior leaders, the Mayor, local authorities, national government, and strategic partners to design and deliver policies that improve outcomes for residents and businesses.
If you are an experienced policy professional who combines long-term strategic thinking with a practical “get things done” mindset, we want to hear from you.
The Opportunity
Reporting to the Head of Policy and Partnerships, you will:
- Lead the development of EMCCA’s strategy and policy position on employment and skills
- Shape the strategic direction and delivery of the devolved Adult Skills Fund and related funding streams
- Design and champion evidence-based programmes that improve access to employment and reduce inequalities
- Influence regional and national thinking on skills devolution and funding flexibility
- Provide high-quality policy advice and briefings to the CEO, Mayor and Senior Leadership Team
- Lead responses to government consultations and support strategic funding bids
- Work collaboratively with partners across local government, central government, and the wider skills ecosystem
You will balance long-term policy development with short-term responsiveness — ensuring strong strategy translates into tangible outcomes for residents.
About You
We are looking for a strategic and politically astute policy leader with:
Essential Experience & Skills
- Significant experience developing and delivering policy or strategy within a complex environment
- Expertise in employment, skills, or a closely related policy area
- Strong understanding of the devolution framework and the relationship between local and central government
- A track record of influencing senior stakeholders and building effective partnerships
- Excellent analytical capability and strategic thinking
- Outstanding written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to translate complex ideas for diverse audiences
- The ability to prioritise and deliver at pace in a dynamic political context
- Degree-level qualification or equivalent professional experience
Desirable
- Knowledge of the East Midlands region and its economic challenges
- Experience working directly with elected politicians
- Evidence of progressive career development
Our Values
- Lifting our region – Putting regional outcomes ahead of individual or organisational gain.
- Working together – Building strong partnerships and fostering collaboration.
- Making an impact – Turning ideas into action and delivering system-wide improvements.
- Being human – Valuing diversity, authenticity, and inclusive engagement.
Why Join Us?
This is a rare opportunity to shape regional policy at a pivotal moment in the devolution journey. You will:
- Influence the future of skills and employment across the East Midlands
- Work at senior levels of public policy and political leadership
- Help deliver meaningful improvements in access to opportunity and economic inclusion
- Be part of a collaborative, ambitious and purpose-driven organisation
Additional Information
This is a politically restricted post. The role requires flexibility, including attending meetings both within and outside the region. No DBS check is required.
Closing Date: 21th May 2026
Senior Policy Lead - Skills & Employment in Chesterfield employer: EAST MIDLANDS COMBINED COUNTY AUTHORITY
Contact Detail:
EAST MIDLANDS COMBINED COUNTY AUTHORITY Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Policy Lead - Skills & Employment in Chesterfield
✨Network Like a Pro
Get out there and connect with people in the industry! Attend events, join relevant groups on LinkedIn, and don’t be shy about reaching out to folks who work in skills and employment. Building relationships can open doors that you didn’t even know existed.
✨Showcase Your Expertise
When you get the chance to chat with potential employers or at networking events, make sure to highlight your experience in policy development and strategy. Share specific examples of how you've influenced stakeholders or delivered impactful projects – this will set you apart from the crowd!
✨Prepare for Interviews
Do your homework before any interview! Understand the organisation’s goals, especially around skills and employment in the East Midlands. Be ready to discuss how your background aligns with their mission and how you can contribute to their vision of inclusive growth.
✨Apply Through Our Website
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you’re genuinely interested in being part of our mission to shape the future of skills and employment.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Policy Lead - Skills & Employment in Chesterfield
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight your experience in policy development and strategy, especially in employment and skills. We want to see how your background aligns with our mission at EMCCA!
Showcase Your Impact: When detailing your previous roles, focus on the tangible outcomes you've achieved. Use specific examples that demonstrate your ability to influence stakeholders and deliver results in complex environments.
Be Clear and Concise: We appreciate strong communication skills, so keep your writing clear and to the point. Avoid jargon where possible and make sure your ideas are easy to understand for diverse audiences.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our official website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensure you’re considered for this exciting opportunity.
How to prepare for a job interview at EAST MIDLANDS COMBINED COUNTY AUTHORITY
✨Know Your Policy Stuff
Make sure you brush up on the latest trends and challenges in skills and employment, especially in the East Midlands. Familiarise yourself with the devolution framework and how it impacts local and central government relationships. This will show that you're not just knowledgeable but also genuinely interested in the role.
✨Showcase Your Strategic Thinking
Prepare examples of how you've developed and delivered policy or strategy in complex environments. Be ready to discuss your approach to balancing long-term goals with short-term needs, as this is crucial for the role. Use specific instances where your strategic thinking led to tangible outcomes.
✨Communicate Clearly
Practice translating complex ideas into simple terms. You’ll need to communicate effectively with diverse audiences, including senior stakeholders and elected officials. Consider doing mock interviews with friends or colleagues to refine your verbal communication skills.
✨Build Your Network
Before the interview, try to connect with people in the sector or those who have worked with the organisation. Understanding their perspectives can provide valuable insights and help you build rapport during the interview. Plus, it shows your proactive approach to collaboration!