Policy Advisor

Policy Advisor

Reading Full-Time 36000 - 60000 Β£ / year (est.) No home office possible
Go Premium
Murray McIntosh

At a Glance

  • Tasks: Support policy development and advocacy in the engineering and manufacturing sectors.
  • Company: Enginuity is the UK's leading skills charity, focused on engineering and manufacturing.
  • Benefits: Enjoy remote work flexibility and a commitment to diversity and inclusion.
  • Why this job: Shape the future of workforce policy while making a social impact in a dynamic team.
  • Qualifications: Degree in public policy or related field; experience in UK policy required.
  • Other info: Join a growing team at a pivotal moment with opportunities for career development.

The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 Β£ per year.

Murray McIntosh is delighted to have partnered with Enginuity, the UK\’s leading skills charity for engineering and manufacturing, in their search for a Policy Advisor.

Enginuity works at the intersection of data, policy, and skills development, investing over Β£2 million annually to tackle barriers to entry and progression in the sector – particularly for underrepresented and disadvantaged groups.

This appointment offers a rare opportunity to support an influential policy and public affairs function within a mission-driven organisation, helping to shape the future of the UK\’s industrial skills landscape.

The successful candidate will be joining a growing, forward-looking policy team at a formative moment, with the opportunity to shape its direction and culture from the ground up.
A key focus for the team in the coming months will be the launch of Enginuity\’s National Policy Centre – a collaborative space for beneficiaries and stakeholders in the small and medium enterprise market. This high-profile project offers an exciting prospect for new postholders to play a meaningful role in its development and delivery.

The Role

Working closely with the Policy Manager, England, the Policy Advisor will support on policy areas within England – particularly the devolution of English skills policy – while supporting broader advocacy, stakeholder engagement, and research efforts. The postholder will engage across the skills and political landscape to influence the direction of policy affecting the future workforce of engineering and manufacturing.

Key responsibilities include:

  • Conducting research and analysis to inform Enginuity\’s policy positions, with a focus on devolution and English skills policy.
  • Drafting high-quality briefings, policy updates, reports, and consultation responses.
  • Monitoring relevant legislation, government consultations, and parliamentary activity across the four nations.
  • Supporting stakeholder engagement, including mapping and relationship development with key figures in government and industry.
  • Collaborating with SMEs, employer groups, and internal stakeholders to ensure Enginuity\’s insights are reflective of sector needs.
  • Contributing to the delivery of policy projects, events, roundtables, and advocacy campaigns.
  • Representing Enginuity at external forums, including APPGs and policy roundtables, as a credible and articulate advocate.

Candidate Profile

This role would suit a mid-level policy professional who combines strong political insight with a collaborative approach and a genuine passion for social and economic impact. The ideal candidate will bring:

  • A degree (or equivalent experience) in public policy, political science, or a related subject.
  • Proven experience working in UK policy, with a sound understanding of policy development processes.
  • Strong research and analytical skills, with the ability to absorb and distil complex information quickly.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills, tailored to a range of audiences.
  • Confidence engaging with internal and external stakeholders, including government and business leaders.
  • Interest in skills, education, and workforce development, ideally with knowledge of engineering or manufacturing.
  • A proactive, flexible, and organised working style with strong attention to detail.

Why Join Enginuity?

This is an exciting opportunity to help shape the future of workforce and industrial policy in the UK. At Enginuity, you will:

  • Contribute to systemic change in a socially driven organisation.
  • Influence key areas of government policy and sector development.
  • Work with a dynamic and forward-thinking team at the heart of UK manufacturing and engineering skills advocacy.
  • Develop your career in public policy within a supportive and ambitious environment.
  • Be part of a flexible, employee-centric culture, with strong commitment to an equitable, diverse and inclusive workplace.

Application deadline: 23:59, 11th September
Please apply with a copy of your CV and brief summary demonstrating your motivation and suitability for the role.

Full right to work in the UK is required. Unfortunately, sponsorship cannot be offered, and support for relocation isn\’t possible.

Enginuity operates on a remote basis, with whole team meetings arranged on a quarterly basis. There may be some additional UK wide travel for events and stakeholder engagement.

Murray McIntosh is proud to be an equal opportunities employer on behalf of their clients. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, colour, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability or age.

Murray McIntosh is a specialist Policy, Public Affairs, Strategic Communications and Economics recruitment consultancy, recruiting positions at all levels and across all sectors. Our team boasts over 20 years of experience in this space, with expertise spanning all manner of industry and subject.

Desired Skills and Experience
public affairs, campaigns, government relations, government affairs, campaign management, policy, employment and skills, public policy, stakeholder management, stakeholder engagement, presentation, research, briefing, political parties, labour

Policy Advisor employer: Murray McIntosh

Enginuity is an exceptional employer, offering a unique opportunity to contribute to meaningful change in the UK's engineering and manufacturing sectors. With a strong commitment to diversity and inclusion, employees benefit from a flexible, supportive work culture that fosters professional growth and collaboration. Joining Enginuity means being part of a dynamic team dedicated to shaping policy and advocating for skills development, all while working remotely with occasional travel for impactful engagements.
Murray McIntosh

Contact Detail:

Murray McIntosh Recruiting Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice 🀫

We think this is how you could land Policy Advisor

✨Tip Number 1

Familiarise yourself with the current landscape of UK skills policy, especially around devolution. Understanding recent developments and key players will help you engage in meaningful conversations during interviews.

✨Tip Number 2

Network with professionals in the engineering and manufacturing sectors. Attend relevant events or webinars to connect with potential colleagues and stakeholders, which can provide insights and possibly referrals.

✨Tip Number 3

Prepare to discuss specific examples of how you've influenced policy or engaged stakeholders in your previous roles. This will demonstrate your practical experience and ability to contribute to Enginuity's mission.

✨Tip Number 4

Stay updated on government consultations and parliamentary activities related to skills and education. Being well-informed will allow you to speak confidently about current issues and show your commitment to the role.

We think you need these skills to ace Policy Advisor

Public Policy Analysis
Stakeholder Engagement
Research and Analytical Skills
Written Communication Skills
Verbal Communication Skills
Political Insight
Campaign Management
Government Relations
Policy Development Processes
Attention to Detail
Collaboration Skills
Presentation Skills
Understanding of Skills and Education Policy
Flexibility and Adaptability
Organisational Skills

Some tips for your application 🫑

Understand the Role: Before applying, take the time to thoroughly read the job description for the Policy Advisor position. Understand the key responsibilities and required skills, and think about how your experience aligns with these.

Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in public policy, research, and stakeholder engagement. Use specific examples that demonstrate your understanding of the UK policy landscape and your ability to influence it.

Craft a Compelling Summary: In your application, include a brief summary that clearly articulates your motivation for applying and why you are suitable for the role. Focus on your passion for social impact and your relevant skills in policy development.

Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your CV and summary. Ensure there are no spelling or grammatical errors, and that your writing is clear and concise. A polished application reflects your attention to detail, which is crucial for this role.

How to prepare for a job interview at Murray McIntosh

✨Understand the Policy Landscape

Before your interview, make sure to research current UK policies related to skills development and engineering. Being able to discuss recent legislation or government initiatives will demonstrate your knowledge and passion for the role.

✨Showcase Your Research Skills

Prepare examples of your previous research work, especially those that influenced policy decisions. Be ready to explain your analytical process and how you distil complex information into actionable insights.

✨Engage with Stakeholders

Think about your experience in stakeholder engagement. Be prepared to discuss how you've built relationships with key figures in government or industry, and how you can leverage these connections for Enginuity's mission.

✨Communicate Clearly and Confidently

Practice articulating your thoughts clearly, as strong communication skills are crucial for this role. Tailor your responses to reflect the diverse audiences you may encounter, from policymakers to industry leaders.

Policy Advisor
Murray McIntosh
Location: Reading
Go Premium

Land your dream job quicker with Premium

You’re marked as a top applicant with our partner companies
Individual CV and cover letter feedback including tailoring to specific job roles
Be among the first applications for new jobs with our AI application
1:1 support and career advice from our career coaches
Go Premium

Money-back if you don't land a job in 6-months

>