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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Support projects addressing social and economic challenges for a better future.
- Company: Join the Joseph Rowntree Foundation, a leading social change organisation in the UK.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working options, including remote work and part-time opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on poverty and social justice while collaborating with diverse stakeholders.
- Qualifications: Experience in policy issues and stakeholder engagement is essential.
- Other info: We encourage applications from all backgrounds, especially those with lived experience of poverty.
9 Months Fixed Term Contract, Full Time (35 hours per week)
About the role
The Joseph Rowntree Foundation (JRF) is working to speed up and support the transition to a more equitable and just future, free from poverty, in which people and planet can flourish. Inspired by the work of our founder over a century ago, today we are an independent, social change organisation, with an endowment, working across all nations of the UK.
The purpose of these programmes is to deliver distinctive and powerful work that makes an impact in areas we care about. Currently we work on communities and social security; work, care and families; and housing, land and climate.
As our Policy Adviser, you will be responsible for supporting the delivery of projects that generate arguments, policies and ideas to address the social and economic challenges and chart a course to a different and better future. You will seek out and connect with people or organisations developing new ideas and strategies that can contribute to our mission; and contribute ideas for how JRF should use its platform and resources to support their development.
About you
Candidates will bring experience of working on policy issues and engaging with a range of stakeholders. You’ll have a good understanding of how policy making works across the UK and an awareness of politics and how to make policy change.
With experience of contributing positively and effectively in a team environment, you will be able to engage with policy dilemmas, drawing on key literature and research evidence with the ability to seek out ideas, examples, people and perspectives beyond JRF that could enrich our work and contribute to our mission. You will thrive working collaboratively with a diverse range of people, be a strong communicator (via writing and speaking) and be able to persuade effectively and engage with a range of stakeholders.
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 10th April 2025. Interviews will take place week commencing 14th April 2025.
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 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.
Policy Adviser employer: Joseph Rowntree
Contact Detail:
Joseph Rowntree Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Policy Adviser
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the current policy landscape in the UK, especially around social security, housing, and climate issues. This will help you engage in meaningful conversations during interviews and demonstrate your understanding of the challenges JRF aims to address.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the policy field, particularly those who have experience working with organisations similar to JRF. Attend relevant events or webinars to connect with potential colleagues and gain insights into effective policy-making strategies.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss specific examples of how you've successfully engaged with stakeholders in the past. Highlight your ability to communicate complex ideas clearly and persuasively, as this is crucial for a Policy Adviser role.
✨Tip Number 4
Research JRF's recent projects and publications to understand their mission and values better. Being able to reference their work in your discussions will show your genuine interest in the organisation and its goals.
We think you need these skills to ace Policy Adviser
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Read the job description thoroughly to grasp the responsibilities and requirements of the Policy Adviser position. Tailor your application to highlight relevant experiences that align with JRF's mission and values.
Craft a Compelling CV: Ensure your CV is up-to-date and clearly outlines your experience in policy work, stakeholder engagement, and teamwork. Use specific examples to demonstrate your skills and achievements related to the role.
Write a Strong Supporting Statement: In your supporting information, articulate your passion for social change and how your background aligns with JRF's goals. Discuss your understanding of policy-making processes and provide examples of how you've contributed to policy development.
Be Clear About Your Availability: When applying, specify whether you are interested in full-time or part-time work, and if part-time, indicate the number of hours you wish to work. This clarity will help JRF understand your preferences from the outset.
How to prepare for a job interview at Joseph Rowntree
✨Understand the Organisation's Mission
Before your interview, take some time to research the Joseph Rowntree Foundation and its mission. Familiarise yourself with their work on poverty, social security, and housing. This will help you align your answers with their goals and demonstrate your genuine interest in contributing to their cause.
✨Showcase Your Policy Experience
Be prepared to discuss your previous experience in policy-making and stakeholder engagement. Highlight specific examples where you've successfully navigated complex policy dilemmas or contributed to impactful projects. This will showcase your ability to thrive in a role that requires strong analytical and communication skills.
✨Engage with Current Issues
Stay updated on current social and economic challenges relevant to the JRF's work. Be ready to discuss recent developments in policy and how they might affect the organisation's mission. This shows that you are proactive and engaged with the issues at hand.
✨Prepare Thoughtful Questions
At the end of the interview, you'll likely have the opportunity to ask questions. Prepare thoughtful inquiries about the JRF's future projects, team dynamics, or how they measure the impact of their work. This not only demonstrates your interest but also helps you assess if the organisation is the right fit for you.
