Strategic Policy & Programme Director — Rural Communities
Strategic Policy & Programme Director — Rural Communities

Strategic Policy & Programme Director — Rural Communities

Full-Time 41511 - 41511 £ / year (est.) No home office possible
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At a Glance

  • Tasks: Lead strategic initiatives and coordinate impactful programmes for rural communities.
  • Company: Rural Community Network, dedicated to empowering local communities in Northern Ireland.
  • Benefits: Starting salary of £41,511 with opportunities for incremental increases.
  • Other info: Join a supportive team and help drive meaningful change.
  • Why this job: Make a real difference in rural communities while shaping inclusive policies.
  • Qualifications: Proven leadership experience with a passion for community engagement.

The predicted salary is between 41511 - 41511 £ per year.

Rural Community Network in Northern Ireland is seeking a Policy and Programme Director to support the CEO and Senior Leadership Team in operationalising the Strategic Plan. This role encompasses strategic oversight, programme coordination, policy advocacy, and operational management.

The ideal candidate will have substantial experience in leadership roles, with a focus on community engagement and inclusive practices.

The starting salary is £41,511 with incremental increases. Applications close at 12pm on Monday 18th August 2025.

Strategic Policy & Programme Director — Rural Communities employer: Rural Community Network

Rural Community Network is an exceptional employer that prioritises community engagement and inclusive practices, making it a rewarding place to work for those passionate about rural development. With a supportive work culture, opportunities for professional growth, and a commitment to operational excellence, employees can thrive while making a meaningful impact in Northern Ireland's rural communities.
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Contact Detail:

Rural Community Network Recruiting Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫

We think this is how you could land Strategic Policy & Programme Director — Rural Communities

Tip Number 1

Network like a pro! Reach out to folks in the rural community sector, attend events, and connect with people on LinkedIn. Building relationships can open doors that a CV just can't.

Tip Number 2

Prepare for interviews by researching the Rural Community Network and its initiatives. Show us you’re passionate about community engagement and have ideas ready to share. We love candidates who come prepared!

Tip Number 3

Practice your pitch! Be ready to articulate your vision for the role and how your experience aligns with the Strategic Plan. Confidence is key, so rehearse until it feels natural.

Tip Number 4

Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to engage directly with us.

We think you need these skills to ace Strategic Policy & Programme Director — Rural Communities

Strategic Oversight
Programme Coordination
Policy Advocacy
Operational Management
Leadership Skills
Community Engagement
Inclusive Practices
Stakeholder Management

Some tips for your application 🫡

Know the Role Inside Out: Before you start writing, make sure you fully understand the job description. We want to see how your experience aligns with the responsibilities of the Strategic Policy & Programme Director role, so highlight relevant skills and experiences that match what we're looking for.

Showcase Your Leadership Experience: This role is all about leadership and community engagement. When you're crafting your application, be sure to include specific examples of your past leadership roles and how you've successfully engaged with communities. We love seeing real-life stories!

Be Clear and Concise: We appreciate a well-structured application. Keep your language clear and to the point. Avoid jargon unless it’s necessary, and make sure your passion for the role shines through without overwhelming us with too much information.

Apply Through Our Website: To make sure your application gets to us without any hiccups, apply directly through our website. It’s the easiest way for us to keep track of your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Don’t forget to double-check everything before hitting send!

How to prepare for a job interview at Rural Community Network

Know the Strategic Plan Inside Out

Make sure you thoroughly understand the Rural Community Network's Strategic Plan. Familiarise yourself with its key objectives and how they align with community engagement and inclusive practices. This will help you demonstrate your strategic oversight capabilities during the interview.

Showcase Your Leadership Experience

Prepare specific examples from your past leadership roles that highlight your ability to coordinate programmes and advocate for policy changes. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your responses, making it easy for the interviewers to see your impact.

Engage with Community Insights

Research current issues facing rural communities in Northern Ireland. Be ready to discuss how you would approach these challenges and engage with local stakeholders. This shows your commitment to community engagement and your proactive mindset.

Ask Thoughtful Questions

Prepare insightful questions about the role and the organisation. Inquire about their current projects or future initiatives related to rural communities. This not only demonstrates your interest but also gives you a chance to assess if the organisation aligns with your values and goals.

Strategic Policy & Programme Director — Rural Communities
Rural Community Network

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