At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead innovative policy development in energy and housing to tackle poverty and economic insecurity.
- Company: Join a forward-thinking organisation dedicated to creating a fairer future for all.
- Benefits: Flexible working, supportive culture, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Collaborative environment with a commitment to diversity and inclusion.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on society by shaping influential policies and ideas.
- Qualifications: Expertise in UK housing or energy markets and strong policy-making knowledge required.
The predicted salary is between 56700 - 69300 £ per year.
Permanent, Full Time
About the role
We are seeking a visionary leader to drive the design, development and delivery of programmes that generate influential arguments, policies and ideas addressing the social and economic challenges underpinning poverty and economic insecurity in the UK today. This role is central to charting a course toward a fairer and more prosperous future. You will actively seek out and engage with individuals and organisations developing innovative ideas and strategies that align with our mission. You will take ownership of how our platform and resources can be best leveraged to support the development and diffusion. In addition, you will lead the external projection of this work, shaping national conversations, influencing decision-making at the highest levels, building strategic alliances and partnerships and backing experimentation and real-world alternatives. Your leadership will help nurture longer term shifts in thinking and action, ensuring that our work resonates and drives meaningful change across society.
The successful candidate will work collaboratively across the wider organisation, drawing on different disciplines and perspectives to strengthen policy and ideas work and maximise potential for change. You will engage closely with colleagues in teams across devolved nations, considering the territorial implications of their work and exploring how to address issues where responsibilities are devolved.
About you
We are seeking a candidate with strong expertise in UK housing or energy markets and a clear understanding of how these relate to poverty and economic insecurity. You will have a sophisticated grasp of how policy making works across the UK including devolved and sub-national governments and be well engaged with current political and policy debates. You will also understand how a range of analytical approaches, both quantitative and experiential, can be applied to complex policy issues, alongside a commitment to fostering an inclusive and diverse culture. You will be skilled at navigating complex dilemmas, using evidence, research and lived experience to develop insightful and original ideas. You will think critically and creatively, communicate persuasively and identify and support new ideas and perspectives beyond JRF. You will also be an effective collaborator, able to build partnerships and work with a diverse range of stakeholders. You will bring a track record of shaping influential ideas or policies and experience of engaging and influencing at senior levels. You will have led successful projects or programmes, supported others through coaching and development and contributed to building high-performing, positive teams.
How to apply
If you share our passion and this role sounds like you, then we’re looking forward to hearing from you. Please submit your CV and supporting information via our online application platform. The closing date for applications is 25/10/2026. Interviews will take place from week commencing 09/11/2026. There will be a webinar held on Thursday 15th October at 12.00 midday. This online webinar is to provide prospective applicants the chance to meet JRF staff and learn more about the role. If you might be interested in attending this session, please fill out the short form linked here and we will share the dial in details with you.
We reserve the right to bring the closing date forward should enough quality applications be received prior to the current closing date.
Additional Information
Applications are welcome from all, regardless of age, disability, marriage or civil partnership, pregnancy or maternity, religion or belief, race, sex, sexual orientation, trans status or socioeconomic background. We positively encourage applications from people from marginalised backgrounds, including but not limited to those with experience of living in poverty. We are committed to being an anti-racist organisation and operate an anonymised recruitment process so that bias is eliminated from the shortlisting process.
In support of our approach to flexible working, we are happy to receive applications from those seeking full-time employment, as well as those who may want to share the role on a part-time basis. When making your application, please state whether you want to be considered for either full or part-time work and, if part-time, the number of hours per week you would be looking for.
At JRF we’re at our best when we’re continually building on trust, showing we care and making a difference – and hope others will do the same. So, for those roles which allow it, we’re developing a more blended approach to how and where you work. This means you can expect to work flexibly between the office and home (with an expectation of two days a week in your home office). We offer a supportive and flexible workplace.
We are a Disability Confident Employer. This means that we are committed to the recruitment, progression and retention of disabled individuals. We shall also offer interviews to disabled candidates who meet the minimum criteria for the job. If you have a disability, please tell us if you would like to be considered for an interview under the Disability Confident Scheme. If you have any additional needs and need reasonable adjustments to be made to the interview process, please let us know.
Principal Policy Adviser (Energy and Housing) in London employer: Joseph Rowntree Foundation and Joseph Rowntree Housing Trust
At The Joseph Rowntree Foundation, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer that values trust, care, and making a difference in the community. Our inclusive work culture fosters professional growth and development, ensuring that our employees are equipped to tackle complex challenges while prioritising the safety and well-being of our residents. With a commitment to continuous improvement and a focus on social impact, working with us means being part of a dedicated team that strives to provide high-quality, affordable housing in well-managed communities.
Contact Details:
Joseph Rowntree Foundation and Joseph Rowntree Housing Trust Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Principal Policy Adviser (Energy and Housing) in London
✨Dive into Local Government Events
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We think you need these skills to ace Principal Policy Adviser (Energy and Housing) in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Relevant Experience:In the public sector, having experience in community engagement, policy analysis, or project management stands out. Make sure to showcase any previous roles or volunteer work that reflects your understanding of public service values and how they've shaped your career path.
Showcase Your Knowledge of the Sector:When you’re applying for a government role, it’s crucial to demonstrate your understanding of the current political landscape and public policies. Consider including articles you've written or relevant projects that underline your capability to engage with these concepts effectively.
Tailor Your CV to Reflect Core Competencies:Government positions often require a clear demonstration of competencies such as communication, teamwork, and problem-solving. Try to structure your CV to highlight these skills, using specific examples of how you’ve applied them in past experiences, ideally with quantifiable outcomes where possible.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to tell your story and convey your passion for public service. Discuss why you want to work for Joseph Rowntree Foundation and Joseph Rowntree Housing Trust and how your values align with their mission. Be genuine and let your enthusiasm shine through—this can really set you apart from other candidates.
How to prepare for a job interview at Joseph Rowntree Foundation and Joseph Rowntree Housing Trust
✨Get to Know Public Sector Values
Before your interview with Joseph Rowntree Foundation and Joseph Rowntree Housing Trust, dig deep into their mission and values, especially how they align with public service and community impact. Understand the key policies or initiatives they are involved in – you’ll want to show that you genuinely care about serving the community.
✨Brush Up on Regulatory Knowledge
Brush up on the regulations, laws, and compliance standards relevant to the role you’re applying for. Since this is the government and public sector, they might throw technical questions related to policy frameworks or project management best practices that you'll need to navigate day-to-day.
✨Highlight Teamwork and Collaboration
The government sector thrives on collaboration. Be ready to discuss how you've successfully worked in diverse teams or involved stakeholders in your projects. Show us how you bring people together to get a common goal achieved – that's what public service is all about!
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Craft a few STAR (Situation, Task, Action, Result) stories that demonstrate your experience in similar roles. Whether it’s a project that made a difference in the community or a challenging situation you managed, be ready to express how your skills and experiences make you a valuable asset for Joseph Rowntree Foundation and Joseph Rowntree Housing Trust.
