Head of Research, Policy and Impact
Head of Research, Policy and Impact

Head of Research, Policy and Impact

Full-Time 52400 - 60200 £ / year (est.) No home office possible
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At a Glance

  • Tasks: Lead research and policy initiatives to drive impactful cross-sector collaboration.
  • Company: Independent not-for-profit organisation at the heart of UK policy dialogue.
  • Benefits: Competitive salary, 33 days leave, healthcare, gym discounts, and more.
  • Why this job: Shape national conversations on key economic and policy challenges.
  • Qualifications: Senior leadership experience in research, policy, or events management.
  • Other info: Dynamic role with opportunities for professional growth and networking.

The predicted salary is between 52400 - 60200 £ per year.

Independent, not-for-profit, cross-sector membership organisation based in Westminster is seeking a Head of Research, Policy and Impact. This is a senior leadership role for someone with a deep instinct for politics, policy and government. The organisation convenes senior leaders from the public, private and not-for-profit sectors to address significant long-term economic and policy challenges.

The Head of Research, Policy and Impact is responsible for driving the organisation’s research, policy and impact agenda. The role will oversee the development of high-quality research and insight that builds the business case for cross-sector collaboration, supports the organisation’s mission and informs senior-level dialogue across government and industry.

Key responsibilities:
  • Policy insight and horizon scanning: Monitor the UK policy landscape, identifying emerging trends and issues relevant to members; Horizon scan to inform programme development and identify priority cross-sector themes; Build and maintain a strong network of senior stakeholders across government, business and the not-for-profit sector.
  • Research and strategic dialogue: Oversee delivery of the annual events programme, including briefings, workshops, conferences, roundtables and senior receptions; Lead and support income-generating events; Chair and facilitate senior-level discussions and forums throughout the year; Support membership engagement and business development activity.
  • Research and thought leadership: Lead the development of flagship research positioning the organisation as the UK’s centre of excellence for cross-sector collaboration; Oversee surveys, international benchmarking, and local and national case studies; Champion innovative content formats that support member retention, growth and engagement.
  • Alumni programme oversight: Work closely with the Alumni Lead to shape and deliver a high-impact alumni programme; Oversee research and content that builds a visible movement of leaders advocating for cross-sector collaboration.
  • Leadership and team management: Lead and manage a multidisciplinary team; Take responsibility for performance management, coaching, development and all associated people management activities; Work collaboratively with senior colleagues across membership, leadership and talent, and production.
About you:
  • Significant experience in a senior leadership role across research, policy, events or content.
  • Proven experience managing and developing high-performing teams.
  • Demonstrable success overseeing complex programmes of events, research or policy activity with measurable impact.
  • Experience developing and delivering income-generating activity and reporting on performance.
  • Strong understanding of event marketing and campaign performance.
  • Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously and consistently meet deadlines.
  • Proven confidence chairing and facilitating senior forums and events.
  • Deep interest in UK policy, government and current affairs.
  • Strong experience commissioning and delivering research, including surveys, benchmarking and qualitative case studies.
  • Excellent editorial skills, with the ability to produce or oversee high-quality reports, insight papers and policy content.
  • Proven ability to translate research into compelling narratives that support member value and the case for cross-sector collaboration.

To apply for the Head of Research, Policy and Impact role, please submit your CV. Due to the volume of applications received, only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.

Head of Research, Policy and Impact employer: Membership Bespoke

As an independent, not-for-profit organisation based in the heart of Westminster, we pride ourselves on fostering a collaborative and inclusive work culture that empowers our employees to drive meaningful change across sectors. With a comprehensive benefits package, including generous annual leave and wellness support, we are committed to the professional growth of our team members, providing ample opportunities for leadership development and engagement with senior stakeholders in government and industry. Join us to be at the forefront of shaping impactful policy discussions while enjoying the unique advantages of working in Central London.
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Contact Detail:

Membership Bespoke Recruiting Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫

We think this is how you could land Head of Research, Policy and Impact

✨Tip Number 1

Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with people in the industry. Attend events, join relevant groups, and don’t be shy about reaching out to folks on LinkedIn. The more people you know, the better your chances of landing that dream job.

✨Tip Number 2

Prepare for interviews by researching the organisation and its recent projects. Show them you’re not just another candidate; you’re genuinely interested in their work and have ideas to contribute. Tailor your responses to highlight how your experience aligns with their goals.

✨Tip Number 3

Follow up after interviews! A quick thank-you email can go a long way. It shows your enthusiasm for the role and keeps you fresh in their minds. Plus, it’s a great opportunity to reiterate why you’re the perfect fit.

✨Tip Number 4

Don’t forget to apply through our website! We’ve got loads of resources to help you stand out. Plus, applying directly can sometimes give you an edge over other candidates. So, make sure you take advantage of everything we offer!

We think you need these skills to ace Head of Research, Policy and Impact

Leadership Skills
Policy Insight
Research Development
Stakeholder Engagement
Event Management
Team Management
Performance Management
Income Generation
Project Management
Editorial Skills
Communication Skills
Networking Skills
Analytical Skills
Understanding of UK Policy
Content Development

Some tips for your application 🫡

Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV speaks directly to the role of Head of Research, Policy and Impact. Highlight your experience in research, policy, and leadership, and don’t forget to showcase any relevant projects that demonstrate your ability to drive impact.

Showcase Your Passion: Let your enthusiasm for UK policy and cross-sector collaboration shine through. Use your application to tell us why you’re passionate about this field and how your values align with our mission at StudySmarter.

Be Clear and Concise: When writing your application, keep it clear and to the point. We appreciate well-structured responses that get straight to the heart of your experience and skills without unnecessary fluff.

Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother process. It helps us keep track of applications and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates from us!

How to prepare for a job interview at Membership Bespoke

✨Know Your Policy Landscape

Before the interview, dive deep into the current UK policy landscape. Familiarise yourself with emerging trends and issues that are relevant to the organisation's mission. This will not only show your commitment but also help you engage in meaningful discussions during the interview.

✨Showcase Your Leadership Experience

Prepare specific examples of your past leadership roles, especially those involving multidisciplinary teams. Highlight how you've managed performance, developed talent, and overseen complex programmes. This will demonstrate your capability to lead the team effectively.

✨Engage with Their Research Agenda

Understand the organisation's research priorities and be ready to discuss how your experience aligns with their goals. Bring ideas on innovative content formats or research methodologies that could enhance their impact and member engagement.

✨Network Like a Pro

Since this role involves building strong networks across sectors, think about your existing connections and how they could benefit the organisation. Be prepared to discuss how you would leverage these relationships to drive cross-sector collaboration.

Head of Research, Policy and Impact
Membership Bespoke

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