At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead major policy development programmes and support strategic priorities in a hybrid role.
- Company: A dynamic London Borough focused on innovation and community engagement.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible working, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Collaborative environment with strong focus on equality and community involvement.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on local governance and shape policies that matter.
- Qualifications: Experience in senior policy roles within local government or public sector.
The predicted salary is between 50000 - 60000 £ per year.
A London Borough is seeking an experienced Corporate Policy Manager to lead major policy development programmes and support the delivery of the administration’s strategic priorities following the local elections in May 2026. This high‑profile role will work across the organisation, supporting senior leadership, Cabinet Members and wider stakeholders to shape policy, deliver strategic projects and ensure strong governance, engagement and equalities compliance. The successful candidate will bring a strong background in corporate policy, strategy, programme delivery and stakeholder engagement within a local government or wider public sector setting. The candidate will be confident operating at senior level, influencing across directorates and driving policy development from design through to delivery.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead major cross‑organisational policy development programmes aligned to corporate priorities and manifesto commitments
- Set up and lead project teams involving senior stakeholders up to Director level
- Support Cabinet Members, Executive Directors and Directorate Management Teams with high‑level policy development and strategic advice
- Lead the refresh and delivery of Equalities, Diversity and Inclusion strategy and approach
- Ensure policy, strategy, change and budget proposals align with the Equality Act and Public Sector Equality Duty
- Design and deliver engagement programmes with staff, elected members, residents, communities, partners and businesses
- Provide oversight, challenge and quality assurance across major programmes and policy activity
- Manage significant programme budgets, including revenue budgets in excess of £100k
- Identify risks, issues, dependencies and critical milestones across policy development activity
- Lead the development of a framework for a new Council Plan in preparation for the administration from May 2026
- Support major projects with business cases, PIDs, engagement plans and related programme documentation
- Work closely with Communications teams to ensure clear and effective messaging to internal and external audiences
- Organise and lead policy boards and working groups, ensuring actions are followed through
- Deputise for the Assistant Director for Policy and Strategy where required
Essential Experience
- Proven experience in a senior policy, strategy or transformation role within local government, council or wider public sector
- Strong track record of leading complex cross‑functional policy development programmes
- Experience working with senior stakeholders including Directors, Cabinet Members and elected Members
- Strong understanding of local government policy development, governance and strategic planning
- Experience of leading equality impact work and applying the Equality Act and Public Sector Equality Duty in practice
- Experience designing and delivering engagement activity with internal and external stakeholders
- Strong programme and project management capability, including risk, dependency and milestone management
- Experience of drafting high‑quality reports, business cases, PIDs and policy papers
- Experience managing budgets and overseeing delivery against strategic objectives
- Excellent communication, facilitation and influencing skills
Rates depend on experience and client requirements.
Corporate Policy Manager employer: Salt Digital Recruitment
As a leading London Borough, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer that values innovation, collaboration, and community engagement. Our hybrid working model promotes a healthy work-life balance, while our commitment to professional development ensures that employees have ample opportunities for growth and advancement within the public sector. Join us in shaping impactful policies that make a real difference in the lives of our residents and communities.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Corporate Policy Manager
✨Network Like a Pro
Get out there and connect with people in the industry! Attend local government events, workshops, or webinars. The more you engage with others, the better your chances of hearing about opportunities that might not even be advertised.
✨Showcase Your Expertise
When you get the chance to chat with potential employers or during interviews, make sure to highlight your experience in leading policy development and stakeholder engagement. Share specific examples of how you've influenced change in previous roles.
✨Tailor Your Approach
Every organisation is different, so do your homework! Understand the council's priorities and challenges, and tailor your discussions to show how your skills can help them achieve their goals. This will make you stand out as a candidate who truly gets it.
✨Apply Through Our Website
Don't forget to check out our website for the latest job openings! Applying directly through us not only gives you access to exclusive roles but also shows your commitment to being part of our team. Let's land that Corporate Policy Manager role together!
We think you need these skills to ace Corporate Policy Manager
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight your experience in corporate policy and strategy. We want to see how your background aligns with the key responsibilities mentioned in the job description.
Showcase Your Stakeholder Engagement Skills:Since this role involves working with senior stakeholders, be sure to include examples of how you've successfully engaged with Directors or Cabinet Members in your previous roles. We love seeing those strong communication skills in action!
Highlight Your Project Management Experience:Don’t forget to mention any significant programmes you’ve managed, especially those involving budgets over £100k. We’re looking for candidates who can demonstrate their ability to oversee complex projects from start to finish.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to submit your application through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity. Let’s get your application in!
How to prepare for a job interview at Salt Digital Recruitment
✨Know Your Policies Inside Out
Make sure you’re well-versed in the latest policies and strategic priorities of the council. Familiarise yourself with their manifesto commitments and how they align with your experience. This will help you demonstrate your understanding of the role and how you can contribute.
✨Showcase Your Stakeholder Engagement Skills
Prepare examples that highlight your experience working with senior stakeholders, including Directors and Cabinet Members. Be ready to discuss how you've successfully influenced policy development and engaged diverse groups in previous roles.
✨Demonstrate Programme Management Expertise
Be prepared to talk about your experience managing complex programmes and budgets. Highlight specific projects where you identified risks and dependencies, and how you ensured successful delivery against strategic objectives.
✨Communicate Clearly and Confidently
Practice articulating your thoughts clearly, especially when discussing high-level policy development and strategic advice. Use concise language and be ready to answer questions about your approach to governance and compliance with the Equality Act.
