At a Glance
- Tasks: Drive policy change and advocate for rural communities through research and engagement.
- Company: Join Rural Community Network NI, a leader in empowering rural voices.
- Benefits: Competitive salary with annual increments and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Full-time role with a focus on impactful community engagement.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in rural communities and influence policy development.
- Qualifications: Strong research skills and a passion for community advocacy.
The predicted salary is between 37035 - 37035 € per year.
RCN wishes to recruit for the following post:
Salary: starting at NJC Point 27 (£37,035 per annum) with incremental yearly increases up to NJC Point 30.
About Rural Community Network Northern Ireland:
RCN NI is a regional, membership-based organisation dedicated to fostering positive change within rural communities. Our 2025–2030 Strategic Plan prioritises empowering rural voices, strengthening community development, and promoting equitable, peaceful rural communities.
About the Role:
Reporting to the Policy Manager, the Policy and Research Officer will play a pivotal role in enhancing RCN’s policy influence, community advocacy, and research capability. You will ensure rural communities effectively contribute to policy development, consultations, and evidence-based advocacy initiatives.
Key Responsibilities:
- Policy Development and Advocacy: Support policy advocacy efforts, draft consultation responses and policy briefings, and represent RCN in key strategic forums.
- Community-Led Research and Evidence Building: Undertake participatory and desk-based research, translating community experiences into actionable policy recommendations.
- Stakeholder Engagement and Strategic Influence: Facilitate forums connecting rural communities with policymakers, service providers, and other stakeholders.
- Organisational Learning and Capacity Building: Contribute to internal learning processes, support community groups in policy engagement, and assist in strategic planning and evaluations.
Contract Type: Full-time, subject to funding.
Applications must be received by 12pm on Monday 18th August 2025.
Policy and Research Officer in London employer: Rural Community Network
Rural Community Network Northern Ireland is an exceptional employer, dedicated to empowering rural communities and fostering positive change. With a strong focus on employee growth, RCN offers a supportive work culture that values collaboration and innovation, providing opportunities for professional development in policy advocacy and community engagement. Located in the heart of Northern Ireland, employees benefit from a meaningful role that directly impacts rural voices and promotes equitable development.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Policy and Research Officer in London
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with people in the rural community sector. Attend events, join forums, and engage on social media. The more you know, the better your chances of landing that Policy and Research Officer role.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! Prepare a portfolio showcasing your research projects and policy work. When you get the chance to chat with potential employers, having tangible examples of your experience can really set you apart.
✨Tip Number 3
Be proactive! Don’t just wait for job openings to pop up. Reach out to RCN directly, express your interest, and ask about upcoming opportunities. It shows initiative and could put you on their radar before they even post a job.
✨Tip Number 4
Stay informed! Keep up with the latest trends in rural policy and community development. Being knowledgeable about current issues will help you stand out in interviews and demonstrate your passion for the role.
We think you need these skills to ace Policy and Research Officer in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Know Your Audience:Before you start writing, take a moment to understand who we are at RCN. Tailor your application to reflect our mission of empowering rural communities and how your skills align with our goals.
Be Clear and Concise:When drafting your application, keep it straightforward. Use clear language and avoid jargon. We want to see your passion and expertise without wading through unnecessary fluff!
Showcase Relevant Experience:Highlight your experience in policy development, community engagement, or research. Give us specific examples that demonstrate how you've made an impact in similar roles or projects.
Apply Through Our Website:Make sure to submit your application via our website. It’s the easiest way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it shows you’re tech-savvy!
How to prepare for a job interview at Rural Community Network
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you’re well-versed in RCN's mission and the specifics of the Policy and Research Officer role. Familiarise yourself with their strategic plan and think about how your skills can contribute to empowering rural communities.
✨Showcase Your Research Skills
Be prepared to discuss your experience with community-led research and policy advocacy. Bring examples of past projects where you've translated community experiences into actionable recommendations, as this will demonstrate your capability for the role.
✨Engage with Stakeholders
Think about how you would facilitate connections between rural communities and policymakers. Prepare to share ideas on how to enhance stakeholder engagement and influence policy effectively during the interview.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Prepare some insightful questions about RCN’s current initiatives and future plans. This shows your genuine interest in the organisation and helps you understand how you can fit into their vision for rural community development.
