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- Tasks: Conduct research and policy analysis to tackle inequalities in the UK labour market.
- Company: Join the Work Foundation at Lancaster University, a leader in impactful research.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working, generous holidays, and a defined benefit pension scheme.
- Other info: Collaborative team environment with opportunities for career growth and development.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in society by influencing policy and improving working lives.
- Qualifications: Experience in research, policy analysis, and building relationships with diverse stakeholders.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
This is an exciting opportunity for a skilled Policy Advisor (maternity cover) to join the Work Foundation at Lancaster University. At a time of big changes in the world of work, we are looking for a talented individual who shares our goal to tackle structural inequalities in the UK labour market.
About you
The ideal candidate will be able to undertake research and policy analysis, help secure and manage funded research projects and clearly communicate complex issues to a range of audiences. Experience of building effective internal and external relationships with a wide range of groups including civil servants, academics, politicians, business leaders and workers will be a particular advantage. The Policy Advisor will support the research team to deliver valuable new quantitative and qualitative evidence and insights. We are ambitious about delivering research that has a positive impact in society, and work closely with workers, employers and policymakers to realise that goal.
Working with us
We are a small, friendly and collaborative team. Flexible working is important to us at the Work Foundation and we’re open to candidates who would like to work flexible hours, part-time, or job share. This role can either be London based at our office in Fetter Lane or based at the Lancaster University campus, with a hybrid working arrangement. Our team tend to work part of the week at home, and part of the week on site. Benefits include a defined benefit pension with the USS Scheme, generous holiday entitlement (25 days plus five university closure days between Christmas and Easter), a Cycle to Work Scheme, a confidential Employee Assistance Programme and a range of other benefits and discounts.
Further information and to apply
This is a maternity cover position for 10-months with a potential to be extended, but this is not guaranteed. Please note: it is the normal expectation of Lancaster University that the chosen candidate will be appointed to the minimum point of that grade. If you would like to discuss this role before applying, please contact Alice Martin (Head of Research), with any questions. To view the full Job Description and apply, please visit the Lancaster University jobs site.
About the Work Foundation
We believe everyone should have access to secure, rewarding and high-quality work. By engaging directly with workers, employers, policymakers and leading academics, we deliver rigorous applied research to tackle structural inequalities in the labour market and improve working lives across the UK.
About Lancaster University
Lancaster University is among the best in the UK. A top 15 university in the three major UK league tables, we are also highly ranked in international league tables such as the QS World Rankings. It has been recognised as a Stonewall Diversity Champion and a Disability Confident employer, and holds an Athena Swan Bronze Award for advancing the careers of women in higher education. The university has several networks focussed on Equality, Diversity and Inclusion, including a Race Equality Network, an LGBT+ staff network and a Parents and Carers’ network.
Terms and conditions
Please note we are unable to offer visa sponsorship for this position. No agencies please.
Policy Advisor in Lancaster employer: Lancaster University
Contact Detail:
Lancaster University Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Policy Advisor in Lancaster
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the policy world, whether they’re civil servants, academics, or business leaders. A friendly chat can open doors and give you insights that might just land you that Policy Advisor role.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your research skills! Prepare a mini case study or analysis on a current issue in the labour market. This not only demonstrates your expertise but also gives you something tangible to discuss during interviews.
✨Tip Number 3
Tailor your approach! When you apply through our website, make sure to highlight your experience in building relationships and managing projects. Use specific examples that align with the Work Foundation’s mission to tackle structural inequalities.
✨Tip Number 4
Be flexible and open-minded! Since the role offers hybrid working, express your willingness to adapt to different working styles. This shows you’re a team player who values collaboration, which is key at the Work Foundation.
We think you need these skills to ace Policy Advisor in Lancaster
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight your experience in policy analysis and research. We want to see how your skills align with our mission to tackle structural inequalities in the UK labour market.
Showcase Your Communication Skills: Since you'll be communicating complex issues to various audiences, include examples of how you've done this in the past. We love seeing clear, concise communication that gets the point across!
Highlight Relationship-Building Experience: We value candidates who can build effective relationships with a range of stakeholders. Share any relevant experiences where you've collaborated with civil servants, academics, or business leaders to show us you can thrive in our collaborative environment.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through the Lancaster University jobs site! It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity.
How to prepare for a job interview at Lancaster University
✨Know Your Policy Stuff
Make sure you brush up on current policies and structural inequalities in the UK labour market. Being able to discuss recent research or changes in legislation will show that you're not just knowledgeable but also genuinely interested in the role.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
Prepare to explain complex issues in simple terms. Think of examples where you've successfully communicated difficult concepts to different audiences, whether they be civil servants, academics, or business leaders. This will demonstrate your ability to connect with various stakeholders.
✨Build Relationships
Think about your past experiences in building effective relationships. Be ready to share specific examples of how you've collaborated with diverse groups. This is crucial for a Policy Advisor role, so highlight your interpersonal skills and teamwork.
✨Flexibility is Key
Since the Work Foundation values flexible working, be prepared to discuss how you can adapt to different working arrangements. Whether it's hybrid working or part-time hours, showing that you're open to flexibility will align you with their team culture.