At a Glance
- Tasks: Support funding programmes and analyse evidence to protect student interests.
- Company: Join the Office for Students, the independent regulator of higher education in England.
- Benefits: Enjoy 25 days annual leave, health benefits, and a Civil Service pension scheme.
- Other info: Flexible working options available; we value diversity and inclusivity.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on students' lives while developing your skills in a dynamic environment.
- Qualifications: Strong analytical skills and ability to manage projects independently.
The predicted salary is between 37614 - 38577 £ per year.
Salary: £37,614– £38,577
Fixed term: 18 months
Location: Bristol
Post responsible to: Senior Regulation Manager
We are the independent regulator of higher education in England. We aim to ensure that every student, whatever their background, has a fulfilling experience of higher education that enriches their lives and careers. The higher education sector in England is complex and diverse and the OfS’s approach to regulation recognises this. Our strategy signals a shift from an organisation in a start–up phase to an established regulator that understands its regulatory tools and how best to use them to shape incentives across the sector we regulate. We work to ensure that students in England enjoy higher education provision that is high quality; that their access to opportunity, success and progression is not limited by background, location or characteristics; and that providers are well and sustainably led.
About the role
We are looking for a Regulation Officer to join the Regulation directorate, initially supporting the Funding Portfolio. Regulation Officers work across a range of regulatory activities, developing breadth and depth of experience over time while contributing to the OfS's statutory functions and helping to protect the interests of students through proportionate, evidence-based regulation. While this role is currently aligned to funding activity, this is an agile role and may contribute to different areas of regulatory work as business priorities evolve.
You may be involved in:
- Supporting the development and delivery of OfS funding programmes and funding allocations
- Analysing quantitative and qualitative evidence to inform funding decisions, identify risks and support regulatory activity
- Monitoring and assuring funded activity, assessing performance against objectives and recommending appropriate action
- Gathering and interpreting information from a variety of sources to support evidence-based recommendations for decision-makers
- Developing guidance, frameworks and processes that support the effective delivery of funding and regulatory activity
- Building expertise in funding policy, regulation and the higher education sector, contributing to the development of good practice across the organisation
You will work collaboratively within and across teams and portfolios to deliver the OfS business plan, respond to urgent work requests, and support shared objectives. The role involves clear communication with internal and external stakeholders, managing complex relationships with professionalism and sound judgement. You will produce robust, evidence–based assessments and recommendations to support effective decision–making and consistent regulatory delivery. How we do things is as important to us as what we do, and your approach will be grounded in our strategic attitudes – being ambitious, collaborative, vigilant, and vocal.
About you
While you don't need previous experience of working in a regulator, you will bring strong transferable skills and be ready to apply them confidently in a role that helps protect students and supports confidence in the higher education sector.
Person specification (essential skills)
- Manage key processes and projects independently, balancing competing priorities and building effective working relationships with a range of stakeholders
- Improve and implement processes, helping to deliver change and drive continuous improvement
- Understand and apply research, data, legislation, and the wider policy landscape relevant to the regulation of higher education
- Work with minimal supervision, using sound judgement to deliver priorities, while recognising when to seek advice or escalate issues
- Analyse and interpret complex information from a variety of sources, producing clear, evidence-based advice and recommendations
- Understand and apply regulatory tools and approaches to support assessments, decision-making, recommendations and the effective delivery of work
- Develop and share expertise in your area of work, while actively learning from colleagues and contributing to a collaborative team environment
- Produce clear written documentation to comply with the OfS’s tone of voice guidance
Application process
As part of the application process, you will be asked to answer two short questions. Your responses will be assessed against the essential criteria relating to:
- Analysis and use of quantitative and qualitative evidence
- Adaptability and responsiveness
- Delivery through processes
- Attention to detail and communication
Further details can be found in the essential skills section of the job description.
Working for us
The OfS regulates the higher education sector on behalf of all students. We value diversity and the wealth of perspectives, experience and ideas that it brings to our work, and we strive to embed equality of opportunity in everything we do. We recruit based on fair and open competition and welcome applications from candidates regardless of age, disability, race and ethnicity, gender reassignment, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity, religion or belief, sex and sexual orientation.
Flexibility is important to the OfS, as we recognise that it can enable people to work more effectively. A set of organisation–wide principles shape our approach to flexible and hybrid working, which our teams then use as guidance on how they deliver their business goals. This role is based in Bristol (BS34 8SR). In line with our hybrid working approach, colleagues are typically expected to attend the office several times a week, with attendance guided by business and team needs. To attract the widest possible field of qualified applicants, flexible working, for example job share and part time working, apply to this role.
In addition, our Total Reward Framework offers a range of benefits to suit your way of life. These include comprehensive learning and development, annual leave starting at 25 days per year (plus public holidays), access to the highly regarded Civil Service pension scheme and a variety of health benefits.
Reasonable adjustments
We are committed to ensuring our recruitment process is accessible to everyone. If you require any reasonable adjustments to support you through the application stage, please contact us at recruitmentteam@officeforstudents.org.uk and we will be happy to help.
Closing date for applications: Monday 10th August at noon
For information: the OfS does not hold a UK Visa & Immigration (UKVI) Skilled Worker Sponsor Licence.
Regulation Officer - Funding in Bristol employer: Office for Students
At the Office for Students, we pride ourselves on fostering a collaborative and inclusive work culture that empowers our employees to thrive. As an Executive PA to the Chief Executive, you will enjoy a supportive environment with ample opportunities for professional growth, all while contributing to meaningful initiatives in higher education. Located in a vibrant area, our office offers a dynamic atmosphere where your contributions are valued and recognised.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Regulation Officer - Funding in Bristol
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We think you need these skills to ace Regulation Officer - Funding in Bristol
Some tips for your application 🫡
Emphasise your understanding of public policy:In your application, make sure to highlight any knowledge or experience you have related to public policy, governance or community engagement. Show us how you can contribute to the public sector’s mission, especially if you've worked on relevant projects or initiatives before!
Tailor your CV to the sector's expectations:When crafting your CV, focus on including experiences that showcase your ability to work within government structures or similar environments. Use clear, concise language and consider adding any volunteer work or internships that reflect your commitment to public service.
Show flexibility and willingness to learn:Since this is a temporary role, it’s crucial to convey your adaptability and eagerness to pick up new skills quickly. In your cover letter, let us know how you plan to make the most of this short-term experience and what you hope to learn from it.
Include relevant certificates and training:If you've completed any training or have certifications that are relevant to the role (like public administration, project management, or data analysis), don't forget to mention them. These can really make you stand out in the application process!
How to prepare for a job interview at Office for Students
✨Demonstrate Your Commitment to Public Service
In the government and public sector, showing that you're genuinely passionate about serving the community is key. Get ready to share examples where you've contributed to social good or tackled community issues, as this will resonate with interviewers from Office for Students.
✨Prepare for Policy and Regulatory Questions
Expect questions about policies, regulations, or recently implemented government initiatives. Brush up on the latest news relating to public sector developments—being informed will help you demonstrate that you're ready to hit the ground running, especially in a temporary role.
✨Flexibility is Your Best Friend
Since this is a temporary role, emphasise your ability to adapt quickly. Share examples where you've successfully taken on new challenges or adjusted to different team dynamics, that'll show Office for Students that you’re reliable and can effectively support various projects without a long onboarding process.
✨Prepare to Showcase Teamwork Skills
In the public sector, collaboration is vital. Be ready to discuss past experiences working in teams, especially in diverse environments. Highlight how you've contributed positively to group settings—this could really set you apart from other candidates in this temporary role.
