Advisor - Policy & Strategy (Fixed Term Contract, Aug to Dec 2026) in Leeds

Shape the Future with the National Wealth Fund

At the National Wealth Fund, our mission is to swiftly and effectively mobilise trusted sector insights and investment expertise to unlock billions in private finance for projects across the United Kingdom. Providing £27.8bn of capital and an expanded mandate, we are ready to help the market invest with confidence, continue to drive forward the Government's growth ambitions.

Job Purpose

As a National Wealth Fund Policy Advisor, you will play a crucial role in supporting the delivery of our new strategy, this means:

• Mobilising finance, unlocking growth by investing £27.8bn to deliver against three new strategic ambitions: unlocking growth opportunities on the pathway to clean energy; accelerating place-based investment across all four nations of the UK; and strengthening sovereign and strategic capabilities.
• Delivering against our triple bottom line: Supporting the Government's growth and clean energy missions, crowding in significant private capital over time, generating a return for the taxpayer.

You will lead aspects of our sectoral policy work as the National Wealth Fund delivers against its strategy. You will own relationships with specific parts of government departments and key stakeholders to understand government policy in particular clean energy sectors and work alongside deal teams to support our investment pipeline including leading on policy due diligence on individual transactions.

The policy role will be part of our clean energy branch; the exact policy area and role will depend on business needs and the expertise of the individual and will be discussed with candidates at interview stage. This role is temporary and will be offered to the successful candidate on a fixed term basis. Indicative dates are August 2026 – December 2026.

Location: Hybrid working with a minimum of 3 days per week in the Leeds office.

Deadline to Apply: 19th July 2026. Early submission is encouraged, and applications will be reviewed on an ongoing basis. Please submit a CV and covering letter.

Interview Process: One stage interview process - Interviews to take place w/c 27th July.

Role Accountabilities:

• Build and maintain strong relationships with key public sector stakeholders (including government departments and devolved administrations), to understand and influence policy developments, to ensure NWF activity is effectively delivering government policy aims, and to support the most effective use of public funds to mobilise private investment.
• Work collaboratively with teams across the organisation, external stakeholders and government departments to develop and deliver a programme of investments in discrete sectors in support of the Government’s Industrial Strategy, clean energy and growth missions.
• Lead work on discrete cross-cutting policy issues as required, producing policy papers and thought leadership pieces on your designated sectors including shaping emerging thinking and trends to support decision making by the NWF’s Executive Committee and Board. Spot key issues, risks and opportunities relevant to these policy areas and work with other functions across the organisation to identify and recommend ways forward.
• Leading the policy inputs into strategy developments for your sectors linked to the NWF strategy launched January 2026 and drawing on knowledge of government policy thinking, working closely with functions across the organisation, the Executive Committee and Board to ensure an appropriate pathway/plan for your sector.
• Lead on the appraisal of individual investment proposals against our strategic objectives and supporting due diligence processes on transactions, as required. This includes working in cross-function deal teams with Investment and Advisory, impact and risk colleagues, drafting and contributing to Investment Committee papers and supporting senior colleagues through written and verbal briefings to ensure alignment with the Bank’s strategic objectives.
• Support wider work to establish an effective policy and strategy function which is well integrated and influential across the NWF.

Energy Storage:

• Proactively engage the UK energy storage sector, working with Investment and Advisory Team to understand and strengthen our knowledge of the market and opportunities for NWF engagement. Work with Investment and Advisory teams to assess investment opportunities and develop financing solutions for major HMG projects in the sector.
• Work closely with DESNZ, Ofgem, GBE, HMT and other Gov. Departments to monitor HMG Policy on Clean Energy including announcements on Cap and Floor, Grid connection and policy design for the sector.
• Support Portfolio Management with existing investment projects to support government engagement that informs portfolio management as appropriate.

Knowledge, Skills & Experience Requirements:

• Experience working in a policy role, preferably within government departments.
• Demonstrated ability to lead or influence policy change.
• Proven track record of delivering projects or initiatives within government or in collaboration with government (public or private sector expertise).
• Able to develop and maintain strong relationships with multiple stakeholders.
• A self-starter who is able to demonstrate strong initiative to drive progress at pace, working proactively and able to evidence an innovative approach to plans and solutions.
• An effective decision-maker, comfortable working with incomplete information or in an emerging area.
• Ability to work collaboratively with a wide range of senior and external colleagues, influencing effectively and providing constructive challenge.
• Strong communication skills, both written and verbal, to be able to effectively communicate policy positions across the organisation and with external stakeholders.

Desirable Experience, Knowledge and Skills:

• Experience working in a Government Department, Local Authority or Devolved Administration with interests in the policy area, such as the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero.
• Experience in Clean Energy sectors.
• Working in a policy or investment-focused role may be an advantage but is not essential.

A career with us offers a unique opportunity to make a lasting impact and work on cutting-edge technologies that will drive the UK’s future. We value diversity in our people and inclusion is at the heart of what we do. We offer competitive benefits and unique learning opportunities from combining both private and public sector skills and experience. Please note, referencing and background checks are carried out for all roles here at the National Wealth Fund.