At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead policy development and advocate for sustainable farming and food systems.
- Company: Join the Soil Association, a pioneering charity focused on health, environment, and animal welfare.
- Benefits: Enjoy 27-30 days holiday, pension scheme, discounts, and flexible working.
- Other info: Dynamic team passionate about sustainability and community engagement.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in food and farming while collaborating with diverse partners.
- Qualifications: Knowledge of agroecological farming and strong advocacy skills required.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 37500 £ per year.
Location: Bristol (Hybrid working – 40% office-based)
Salary: £36,000 to £37,500 per annum FTE
Contract: 30 - 35 hours per week, 0.8 FTE - 1 FTE, Permanent
About Our Organisation
The Soil Association, formed in 1946, is the only UK charity which works across the spectrum of human health, the environment and animal welfare. That’s because we cannot tackle these issues in isolation. We campaign for change, we support farming innovation, we serve healthy food in communities, we support and grow the organic market, and we protect forests. We couldn't do any of this without our supporters, partners, donors and dedicated staff. We make a difference in the world where it’s needed the most.
About the Opportunity
The Soil Association Policy Department is recruiting a Senior Policy Officer to support our policy development, advocacy and political influencing related to both farming and food. The role includes acting as the focal point for the Sustainable Nitrogen Alliance which is hosted by the Soil Association on behalf of 12 organisations, which will provide opportunities to develop further knowledge in a very topical policy area and work closely with a wide range of partners and advocate to varied target audiences. We are looking for someone with knowledge of food and farming and who can contribute to the Soil Association's mission to transform the food and farming system.
About You
You will be able to demonstrate an ability to contribute to policy analysis and advocacy, compile briefings and reports, and be able to represent the Soil Association at relevant policy consultations and events. You will have the skills to coordinate and motivate a wide range of partners and have a good knowledge of agroecological farming and environmental issues, and at least a passing knowledge of the wider food system and sustainable diets. You will need to demonstrate the aptitude to manage policy and/or research projects and the ability to make the case for policy change to policy and political audiences.
Our Benefits
- 27 days annual holiday increasing to 30 days with length of service plus bank holidays (pro rata for part time)
- Pension scheme with ethical investment options and employer contribution increasing with length of service
- Free membership of the Soil Association and discounts on organic produce
- Volunteer days to give back to the local community or support green initiatives
- Family friendly policies and flexible working
- Cycle to work scheme
- Sociable and engaging workplace of professionals that share a passion for healthy, sustainable lifestyle and produce
To Apply
Click ‘Apply Now’ to submit your CV and cover letter. Your CV should clearly demonstrate how you meet the essential criteria and must not exceed two sides of A4. Please note we reserve the right to close this vacancy early. Please check your junk/spam folder if you do not receive a confirmation email upon submitting your application. All candidates will subsequently receive an email to confirm whether they have made it through to interview stage. For any queries, please contact recruitment@soilassociation.org
We know the value of diversity in nature and want it in our organisation. We recognise that diverse backgrounds and experiences will bring a fresh perspective to our work. If you’re not sure about applying, please get in touch with us for a chat. Thank you for your interest in supporting our work at the Soil Association.
Senior Policy Officer & Nitrogen Alliance Convenor in Bristol employer: Soil Association
The Soil Association is an exceptional employer located in Bristol, offering a hybrid working model that promotes work-life balance while engaging in meaningful advocacy for sustainable food and farming systems. With a strong commitment to employee growth, the organisation provides generous holiday allowances, ethical pension options, and opportunities for community involvement, all within a supportive and passionate team dedicated to making a positive impact on health and the environment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Policy Officer & Nitrogen Alliance Convenor in Bristol
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the industry, especially those connected to the Soil Association or similar organisations. Attend events, webinars, and workshops to make connections that could lead to job opportunities.
✨Tip Number 2
Show your passion for the cause! When you get the chance to chat with potential employers, let your enthusiasm for sustainable farming and environmental issues shine through. Share your ideas on how you can contribute to their mission.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by researching the Soil Association's recent projects and initiatives. This will help you tailor your responses and demonstrate that you're genuinely interested in their work and ready to hit the ground running.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the team and supporting the Soil Association's mission.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Policy Officer & Nitrogen Alliance Convenor in Bristol
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the role of Senior Policy Officer. Highlight your experience in policy analysis and advocacy, and don’t forget to showcase your knowledge of agroecological farming and environmental issues.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you’re passionate about transforming the food and farming system and how your skills align with our mission at the Soil Association.
Be Concise and Clear:Keep your CV to two sides of A4 as requested. Clarity is key, so make sure your achievements and experiences are easy to read and directly relevant to the job description.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother process. Plus, it shows you’re keen on joining us at the Soil Association and supporting our important work!
How to prepare for a job interview at Soil Association
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of agroecological farming and environmental issues. The Soil Association is looking for someone who can contribute to policy analysis and advocacy, so be ready to discuss current trends and challenges in the food and farming sector.
✨Showcase Your Coordination Skills
As a Senior Policy Officer, you'll need to coordinate and motivate a wide range of partners. Prepare examples from your past experiences where you've successfully managed projects or collaborated with diverse stakeholders. This will demonstrate your ability to lead and influence effectively.
✨Prepare for Policy Discussions
Familiarise yourself with the Sustainable Nitrogen Alliance and its objectives. Be prepared to discuss how you would advocate for policy change and represent the Soil Association at consultations. Having specific ideas or strategies in mind will show your proactive approach.
✨Tailor Your CV and Cover Letter
Your application should clearly highlight how you meet the essential criteria outlined in the job description. Use your cover letter to express your passion for transforming the food and farming system, and make sure your CV is concise and relevant to the role.
