At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead policy development and engage with key stakeholders to influence change.
- Company: Respected national charity focused on impactful public affairs.
- Benefits: Flexible working, generous holiday allowance, and professional development opportunities.
- Other info: Collaborative environment with opportunities for growth and travel.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in public policy while working with passionate teams.
- Qualifications: Experience in policy campaigns and strong communication skills required.
The predicted salary is between 50000 - 50000 € per year.
Location: Leeds/Hybrid or remote with regular travel
Reporting to: CEO
Contract Type: 12-month FTC initially (Full Time and Part Time flexible working hours considered)
Salary: £50,000 FTE per annum
To apply: If you are interested in the opportunity, please send your CV and a covering letter by email outlining how you meet the person specification by Friday 22nd May 2026. Interviews will take place in our central Leeds Office on 2nd or 3rd June 2026. If you would like an informal conversation with our CEO, Kate Bratt-Farrar, please contact nicole@heartresearch.org.uk to arrange a time.
We are looking for an experienced and connected Policy and Public Affairs Adviser to lead the development of this function within the organisation. Reporting directly to the CEO, you will engage with teams and partners to design both an ongoing influencing strategy and the future shape of this work in the coming years.
Key Responsibilities:
- Undertake internal opportunities review to identify key work strands.
- Undertake external opportunities review to identify both short term and long-term areas for influence.
- Develop long term policy and influencing strategy in conjunction with the Senior Leadership Team (SLT).
- Review and recommend future staffing structure and reporting lines as part of the above.
- Act as lead for existing activity in this area including attending meetings with MPs, Peers and civil servants, working with internal teams to provide accurate briefing information and supporting other appropriate spokespeople across the organisation.
- Identify and lead on the formulation of appropriate evidence-based policy positions and responses.
- Work with staff and our growing Public and Patient Network (PPN) to ensure those with lived experience have a meaningful voice in the above activity.
Key requirements:
Required:
- Experience of developing and delivering campaigns that include influencing and engaging with policy makers, MPs, Peers and other relevant stakeholders.
- Strong understanding of the legislative process in England (Scotland and Wales desirable).
- Ability to quickly develop effective relationships with internal and external stakeholders.
- Demonstrable ability to analyse information that can be communicated to a variety of audiences.
- Experience of developing policy positions and briefings, along with responding to consultations.
- Ability to effectively manage competing interests and views to achieve the aims of the organisation.
- Excellent communication and teamwork skills.
- Depending on location, this role will require regular travel to the Leeds Office and Westminster.
Desirable:
- Experience of working in a charity.
Personal Attributes:
- Strategic thinker
- Passionate about our cause and mission.
- Organised and reliable with a collaborative mindset.
- Open to feedback and committed to continuous improvement.
What We Offer:
- The opportunity to contribute to a respected national charity.
- A supportive and collaborative working environment.
- Professional development and learning opportunities.
- Flexible or hybrid working options (where applicable).
- Generous holiday allowance and staff benefits package.
Policy & Public Affairs Adviser in Yorkshire employer: Heart Research UK
Join a respected national charity as a Policy & Public Affairs Adviser in Leeds, where you will have the opportunity to shape impactful policies and engage with key stakeholders. Our supportive and collaborative work culture fosters professional development, offering flexible working options and a generous benefits package, making it an excellent place for those passionate about making a difference. With regular travel to Westminster and a commitment to continuous improvement, this role promises meaningful and rewarding employment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Policy & Public Affairs Adviser in Yorkshire
✨Network Like a Pro
Get out there and connect with people in the policy and public affairs space. Attend events, join relevant groups, and don’t be shy about reaching out to folks on LinkedIn. We all know that sometimes it’s not just what you know, but who you know!
✨Prepare for Informal Chats
If you can, have an informal chat with the CEO or other key players in the organisation. It’s a great way to get insights into their vision and show your enthusiasm. Plus, it gives you a chance to ask questions that can help you tailor your approach.
✨Showcase Your Skills
When you get the chance to meet potential employers, make sure to highlight your experience with campaigns and stakeholder engagement. We want to see how you can bring your unique skills to the table and contribute to our mission.
✨Follow Up
After any meetings or interviews, don’t forget to send a follow-up email thanking them for their time. It’s a simple gesture that shows your professionalism and keeps you fresh in their minds. We love seeing candidates who are proactive!
We think you need these skills to ace Policy & Public Affairs Adviser in Yorkshire
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Policy & Public Affairs Adviser role. Highlight relevant experience and skills that match the job description, especially your campaign development and stakeholder engagement abilities.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain how you meet the person specification. Be specific about your experiences and how they relate to the key responsibilities of the role.
Show Your Passion:We love candidates who are passionate about our cause! Make sure to convey your enthusiasm for the role and the impact you hope to make in the charity sector within your application.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us directly. Plus, it shows you’re keen on joining our team at StudySmarter!
How to prepare for a job interview at Heart Research UK
✨Know Your Policy Inside Out
Make sure you’re well-versed in current policies and public affairs relevant to the charity sector. Brush up on recent legislation and understand how it impacts the organisation's mission. This will show your passion and commitment during the interview.
✨Prepare Real-Life Examples
Think of specific instances where you've successfully influenced policy or engaged with stakeholders. Be ready to discuss these examples in detail, highlighting your strategic thinking and communication skills. This will help demonstrate your experience and capability.
✨Understand the Organisation’s Goals
Research the charity’s mission and recent initiatives. Tailor your responses to align with their objectives and show how your skills can contribute to their goals. This will help you stand out as a candidate who truly understands and cares about their work.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions for the interviewers that reflect your interest in the role and the organisation. Inquire about their current challenges in public affairs or how they measure the success of their influencing strategies. This shows you’re engaged and proactive.
