At a Glance
- Tasks: Support the Chief Executive with strategic policy advice and oversee critical projects.
- Company: Join a dynamic organisation at the heart of Sandwell's leadership.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, professional development, and the chance to influence community outcomes.
- Other info: A unique opportunity to work closely with senior leaders and drive meaningful change.
- Why this job: Make a real impact by shaping policies that affect local communities.
- Qualifications: Degree in a relevant field and experience in fast-paced environments.
The predicted salary is between 50000 - 60000 £ per year.
Are you a strategic thinker with the ability to turn insight into action? Do you thrive in a fast-paced, high-profile environment supporting senior leadership? We are looking for an exceptional Policy and Executive Office Lead to work at the heart of the organisation, providing direct support to the Chief Executive and helping shape the future of Sandwell. This is a unique and influential role combining strategic policy leadership, executive support, and operational delivery. You will act as a trusted adviser to the Chief Executive – providing high-quality analysis, insight, and coordination to ensure effective decision-making and delivery across key priorities. You'll oversee critical projects and ensure the Executive Office operates seamlessly to support the organisation's most senior leaders. Working across directorates and with regional partners, you will play a central role in translating strategic ambition into real-world outcomes for the borough.
Responsibilities
- Provide high-level policy advice, briefing and research to the Chief Executive on complex and sensitive issues
- Interpret national, regional and local developments, ensuring timely and informed decision-making
- Oversee and manage the Executive Office function, including Executive and Personal Assistants, ensuring effective support to the Chief Executive and Senior Leadership Team
- Drive alignment between corporate strategy, policy development, and operational delivery
- Produce high-quality reports, briefings and recommendations, often under tight deadlines
- Support the Chief Executive's engagement and influence at local, regional and national levels
Qualifications
- A degree (or equivalent) in a relevant field
- Significant experience working in a complex, fast-paced environment, ideally within local government or the public sector
- A strong track record of providing strategic policy advice to senior leaders
- Experience managing people and coordinating workloads across teams
- Excellent analytical, research and problem-solving skills
- Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to simplify complex issues for diverse audiences
- Strong stakeholder engagement and influencing skills
- The ability to manage competing priorities and deliver at pace
You will also be:
- Highly organised and proactive
- Politically aware and able to handle sensitive information with discretion
- A collaborative leader who can challenge constructively and inspire others
- Flexible and resilient, with the ability to respond to changing demands
This is a rare opportunity to play a pivotal role at the centre of leadership, influencing decisions that shape services and outcomes for communities across Sandwell.
Policy and Executive Office Lead in Oldbury employer: Sandwell Metropolitan Borough Council
As a leading organisation in Sandwell, we pride ourselves on fostering a dynamic and inclusive work culture that empowers our employees to make a real impact in the community. With a strong focus on professional development, we offer numerous growth opportunities and support for our staff to excel in their roles, particularly in high-profile positions like the Policy and Executive Office Lead. Join us to be part of a collaborative team that values strategic thinking and innovation, all while working in a vibrant environment dedicated to shaping the future of our borough.
Contact Details:
Sandwell Metropolitan Borough Council Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Policy and Executive Office Lead in Oldbury
✨Dive into Local Government Events
Get yourself to local government events and public sector job fairs. These are great for meeting recruiters and understanding what different organisations, like Sandwell Metropolitan Borough Council, are looking for. Plus, it shows your genuine interest in the sector!
✨Join Relevant Networks
Look for communities focused on public sector careers. Whether it’s local networking groups or online forums, connecting with professionals in the field can provide insider knowledge and opportunities that you won’t find on typical job boards.
✨Utilise Your University’s Resources
If you’re freshly graduated or still studying, make the most of your university's careers service. They often have exclusive partnerships with companies like Sandwell Metropolitan Borough Council and can help you get your foot in the door for these full-time public sector roles.
✨Stay Updated with Government Initiatives
Keep your finger on the pulse regarding new government projects and policies. Understanding current initiatives can give you a leg up in interviews, showing that you are informed and genuinely interested in making a difference in the public sector.
We think you need these skills to ace Policy and Executive Office Lead in Oldbury
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Relevant Experience:In the public sector, having experience in community engagement, policy analysis, or project management stands out. Make sure to showcase any previous roles or volunteer work that reflects your understanding of public service values and how they've shaped your career path.
Showcase Your Knowledge of the Sector:When you’re applying for a government role, it’s crucial to demonstrate your understanding of the current political landscape and public policies. Consider including articles you've written or relevant projects that underline your capability to engage with these concepts effectively.
Tailor Your CV to Reflect Core Competencies:Government positions often require a clear demonstration of competencies such as communication, teamwork, and problem-solving. Try to structure your CV to highlight these skills, using specific examples of how you’ve applied them in past experiences, ideally with quantifiable outcomes where possible.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to tell your story and convey your passion for public service. Discuss why you want to work for Sandwell Metropolitan Borough Council and how your values align with their mission. Be genuine and let your enthusiasm shine through—this can really set you apart from other candidates.
How to prepare for a job interview at Sandwell Metropolitan Borough Council
✨Get to Know Public Sector Values
Before your interview with Sandwell Metropolitan Borough Council, dig deep into their mission and values, especially how they align with public service and community impact. Understand the key policies or initiatives they are involved in – you’ll want to show that you genuinely care about serving the community.
✨Brush Up on Regulatory Knowledge
Brush up on the regulations, laws, and compliance standards relevant to the role you’re applying for. Since this is the government and public sector, they might throw technical questions related to policy frameworks or project management best practices that you'll need to navigate day-to-day.
✨Highlight Teamwork and Collaboration
The government sector thrives on collaboration. Be ready to discuss how you've successfully worked in diverse teams or involved stakeholders in your projects. Show us how you bring people together to get a common goal achieved – that's what public service is all about!
✨Prepare Real-Life Examples
Craft a few STAR (Situation, Task, Action, Result) stories that demonstrate your experience in similar roles. Whether it’s a project that made a difference in the community or a challenging situation you managed, be ready to express how your skills and experiences make you a valuable asset for Sandwell Metropolitan Borough Council.
