At a Glance
- Tasks: Join the UFU Policy Team to develop and analyse impactful policies.
- Company: Ulster Farmers Union, a leading voice in agriculture and rural affairs.
- Benefits: Enjoy 25 days annual leave, pension contributions, and flexible benefits.
- Other info: Full-time role with opportunities for professional development and stakeholder engagement.
- Why this job: Make a difference in Northern Ireland's agriculture while growing your career.
- Qualifications: Degree in policy, economics, or related field; strong communication skills required.
The Ulster Farmers Union is seeking to recruit a Policy Officer primarily based out of our Head Office in Belfast. This will be a challenging and wide ranging job working as part of the UFU Policy Team. Full access to a car is essential, as you will need to attend meetings that will occasionally take place during evenings or weekends.
The job involves assisting with:
- Policy Development & Analysis
- Stakeholder Engagement & Representation
- The servicing of Union Policy Committees
- Representing the views of the Union across a range of media
- The lobbying process
- Collaborating with other teams in the organisation to support the wider UFU priorities
The ideal candidate should have the following skills and experience:
- Have a degree (or equivalent experience) in a relevant discipline such as policy, economics, agriculture, politics, communications or related field
- Have a good knowledge of or interest in Northern Ireland Agriculture, rural affairs or food systems
- Have good communication skills including briefing and report writing
- Have experience with either; policy development/research and/or stakeholder engagement and/or communications/advocacy work and/or public affairs/political processes
- Be computer literate
- Hold a driving licence and have full access to a car
Benefits include: 25 days annual leave exclusive of public and bank holidays; employer contribution to private pension scheme; car mileage for travel; flexible benefit scheme; cycle to work scheme; employee assistance programme.
The closing date for the role is: Friday 19th June 2026.
If this sounds like you, please hit apply now!
Policy Officer in Belfast employer: Smart Hire
The Ulster Farmers Union is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment in Belfast where you can make a meaningful impact on agricultural policy and rural affairs. With a strong commitment to employee development, generous benefits including 25 days of annual leave, and a supportive culture that values collaboration and innovation, this role as a Policy Officer provides an excellent opportunity for professional growth while contributing to the community.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Policy Officer in Belfast
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to folks in the industry, attend events, and connect with people on LinkedIn. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its policies. Understand their values and current projects so you can show how you fit into their vision. We want you to shine when it’s your turn to impress!
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your communication skills! Whether it's writing reports or engaging with stakeholders, being articulate is key. Try mock interviews or discussions with friends to boost your confidence.
✨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 are proactive about their job search!
We think you need these skills to ace Policy Officer in Belfast
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight your relevant skills and experiences that match the Policy Officer role. We want to see how your background in policy, agriculture, or communications makes you the perfect fit for us!
Show Your Passion:Let your enthusiasm for Northern Ireland agriculture and rural affairs shine through in your application. We love candidates who are genuinely interested in the field and can articulate their passion for the work we do at the Ulster Farmers Union.
Be Clear and Concise:When writing your application, keep it straightforward and to the point. Use clear language and structure your thoughts logically. We appreciate well-organised applications that make it easy for us to see your qualifications.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it’s super easy to do!
How to prepare for a job interview at Smart Hire
✨Know Your Policies
Make sure you brush up on current agricultural policies and issues in Northern Ireland. Being able to discuss recent developments shows your genuine interest and understanding of the field, which is crucial for a Policy Officer role.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
Prepare examples that highlight your communication abilities, especially in briefing and report writing. You might be asked to explain complex policies simply, so practice articulating your thoughts clearly and concisely.
✨Engage with Stakeholders
Think about past experiences where you've engaged with stakeholders or worked in advocacy. Be ready to share how you navigated those relationships and what strategies you used to represent differing views effectively.
✨Demonstrate Team Collaboration
Since the role involves collaborating with various teams, prepare to discuss how you've successfully worked in a team environment. Highlight any specific projects where teamwork was essential to achieving a goal, especially in policy development or analysis.
