Policy and Strategy Officer – Public Health
Contract: Permanent / Fixed Term available (13 months)
Salary: £42,839 - £47,181 per annum (Grade 8)
Hours: 36.66 per week
Location: Oldham Council Offices, The Spindles
Closing Date: Sunday 26 July 2026
Role Overview
As a key member of the dynamic Public Health team, you will lead continuous improvement initiatives by building strong partnerships that shape the strategic direction of policies, strategies, and commissioning. Your work will be grounded in robust assessment of need and an evidence‑based approach, aimed at addressing the root causes of health inequalities and improving life expectancy.
Key Responsibilities
- Manage and commission gambling harms prevention activity, including coordinating the Oldham Gambling Harms Alliance, attending GM and national meetings and implementing gambling harms strategies.
- Support the tobacco alliance and associated work that brings partners from across the system to focus on strategic priorities.
- Performance‑monitor the smoking cessation contract and guide spend to align with strategic objectives.
- Provide ongoing evidence‑based advice across the system to drive improvements for children and young people’s health and wellbeing, including the healthy child programme and best start in life family hubs programme.
- Provide expert public health input into impactful programmes, maintain strong stakeholder relationships, and oversee programme delivery with clear governance.
Key Requirements
- Be able to work autonomously by reviewing evidence base and best practice to shape and influence service delivery in Oldham.
- Have excellent communication and interpersonal skills to effectively advise and support senior officers on decisions that drive positive health outcomes for Oldham residents.
- Have high‑level organisational skills to develop and manage the provision of multiple programme areas.
Benefits
- 25 days annual leave, increasing after 5 and 10 years of service.
- Option to purchase additional annual leave.
- LGPS pension scheme with the option to make shared‑cost additional voluntary contributions.
- Discounted gym membership (Oldham Active).
- Staff discount scheme for shopping, entertainment, dining, travel, motoring and more.
- Salary sacrifice scheme for home and electronics and Cycle to Work.
- Well‑being support, including a Mental Health First Aider network and an Employment Assistance Programme providing 24‑hour access to advice and support.
- Staff recognition and celebration events.
- Peer support groups.
Policy and Strategy Officer (Public Health) in Oldham employer: Oldham Council
Oldham Council is an excellent employer that prioritises the growth and development of its employees through structured apprenticeship programmes, such as the Level 6 training for Trainee Trading Standards Officers. With a supportive work culture in Lees, England, you will be part of a dedicated team committed to upholding consumer protection laws, while enjoying the benefits of meaningful work that directly impacts the community.
