At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead policy work and deliver practice projects to transform public services.
- Company: Join New Local, a mission-driven organisation focused on community power.
- Benefits: Flexible working, supportive culture, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Collaborative environment with a focus on innovation and community engagement.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on public service reform and community empowerment.
- Qualifications: Experience in research, policy shaping, and strong communication skills required.
The predicted salary is between 50000 - 60000 £ per year.
New Local has a mission to transform public services and unlock community power. We publish research, lead peer learning, influence government and work with public sector organisations on some of today’s most pressing issues, informed by our network of 50-plus local authority members.
Purpose
This role sits in our Practice and Programmes team, and whilst you will lead our policy work, you will also deliver practice projects. We are looking for someone who can apply their policy expertise in both our policy and practice work. Our thought leadership and policy approach is deeply rooted in our practice and peer-learning networks. You will lead this work drawing on the pioneering work we see in places, and with our members, to develop narratives and practical insights which challenge thinking and practice and inform the national policy conversation about the conditions and enablers needed for places to accelerate and grow innovation in place-based, preventative and relational working. This could be through leading work resulting in policy papers, blogs or thought pieces, through the shaping of events or member sessions or through influencing key stakeholders.
You will develop relationships with key partners to shape and deliver policy projects that move forward on our agenda on community power and public service reform. In our practice work you will solve challenges alongside councils, other public sector partners and communities, supporting them to deepen the impact of innovative place-based approaches and to understand the conditions needed for them to grow. You will be leading projects, working alongside delivery partners where needed, managing other New Local team members, to deliver high quality work and impact for our partners. We are committed to strengthening the feedback loops between practice and policy locally, regionally and nationally and this role is key to this.
Person specification: knowledge and skills required (E = essential; D = desirable)
- Experience in using research skills (qualitative and/or quantitative) to shape and inform policy discussions and ensure relevancy to debates. (E)
- Experience of using different approaches and methodologies in practice work to inform and influence practitioner audiences (E)
- Knowledge in at least one area of specialism of relevance to New Local’s work - e.g. Knowledge of place-based public service reform. This could include local government reorganisation, devolution, preventative and relational public services, local economies. (E)
- Outstanding written skills, with a demonstrable track record of brilliant writing for a range of audiences and a deep understanding of how to present work in engaging and accessible ways. (E)
- Strong verbal communication skills, able to present ideas and arguments in an engaging way to a variety of audiences. (E)
- An entrepreneurial mindset with a track record of partnership initiation and business development. (E)
- A broad research, practitioner and policy network and a desire to grow and maintain a strong online profile. (E)
- Excellent project planning and project management skills with strong attention to detail. (E)
- Capability to work in a highly creative and autonomous way. (E)
- Capability to deal with ambiguity and to support team members and partners to manage uncertainty and work towards clarity. (E)
- Capability to actively contribute to the highly supportive, collaborative and friendly organisational culture at New Local. (E)
- A champion for community power, who understands and is committed to its principles. (E)
- Excellent understanding of the Voluntary, Community and Social Enterprise (VCSE) sector. (D)
How to apply
To apply for this role, please email recruitment@newlocal.org.uk including your CV and an answer to these questions in no more than 400 words in total: How do you see the relationship between practice and policy? Where do you have experience of shaping policy recommendations through practice?
The deadline for applications is 13 July 2026, 9:00am. For the recruitment timeline and full JD and New Local benefits, please visit our website: https://www.newlocal.org.uk/about/jobs/
If you would like an informal conversation about this role, require any help applying for this role or taking part in the recruitment process, then do not hesitate to contact us at recruitment@newlocal.org.uk
Head of Policy & Insights (maternity cover) employer: New Local
New Local is an exceptional employer dedicated to transforming public services and empowering communities. With a strong commitment to collaboration and innovation, we offer a supportive work culture that fosters professional growth through meaningful projects and partnerships. Our team enjoys the unique advantage of working closely with local authorities and stakeholders, contributing to impactful policy development while being part of a vibrant network that champions community power.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Policy & Insights (maternity cover)
✨Dive into Local Government Events
Get yourself to local government events and public sector job fairs. These are great for meeting recruiters and understanding what different organisations, like New Local, are looking for. Plus, it shows your genuine interest in the sector!
✨Join Relevant Networks
Look for communities focused on public sector careers. Whether it’s local networking groups or online forums, connecting with professionals in the field can provide insider knowledge and opportunities that you won’t find on typical job boards.
✨Utilise Your University’s Resources
If you’re freshly graduated or still studying, make the most of your university's careers service. They often have exclusive partnerships with companies like New Local and can help you get your foot in the door for these full-time public sector roles.
✨Stay Updated with Government Initiatives
Keep your finger on the pulse regarding new government projects and policies. Understanding current initiatives can give you a leg up in interviews, showing that you are informed and genuinely interested in making a difference in the public sector.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Policy & Insights (maternity cover)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Relevant Experience:In the public sector, having experience in community engagement, policy analysis, or project management stands out. Make sure to showcase any previous roles or volunteer work that reflects your understanding of public service values and how they've shaped your career path.
Showcase Your Knowledge of the Sector:When you’re applying for a government role, it’s crucial to demonstrate your understanding of the current political landscape and public policies. Consider including articles you've written or relevant projects that underline your capability to engage with these concepts effectively.
Tailor Your CV to Reflect Core Competencies:Government positions often require a clear demonstration of competencies such as communication, teamwork, and problem-solving. Try to structure your CV to highlight these skills, using specific examples of how you’ve applied them in past experiences, ideally with quantifiable outcomes where possible.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to tell your story and convey your passion for public service. Discuss why you want to work for New Local and how your values align with their mission. Be genuine and let your enthusiasm shine through—this can really set you apart from other candidates.
How to prepare for a job interview at New Local
✨Get to Know Public Sector Values
Before your interview with New Local, dig deep into their mission and values, especially how they align with public service and community impact. Understand the key policies or initiatives they are involved in – you’ll want to show that you genuinely care about serving the community.
✨Brush Up on Regulatory Knowledge
Brush up on the regulations, laws, and compliance standards relevant to the role you’re applying for. Since this is the government and public sector, they might throw technical questions related to policy frameworks or project management best practices that you'll need to navigate day-to-day.
✨Highlight Teamwork and Collaboration
The government sector thrives on collaboration. Be ready to discuss how you've successfully worked in diverse teams or involved stakeholders in your projects. Show us how you bring people together to get a common goal achieved – that's what public service is all about!
✨Prepare Real-Life Examples
Craft a few STAR (Situation, Task, Action, Result) stories that demonstrate your experience in similar roles. Whether it’s a project that made a difference in the community or a challenging situation you managed, be ready to express how your skills and experiences make you a valuable asset for New Local.
