At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead policy programmes connecting STEM research with key policymakers on critical issues.
- Company: Imperial College London, a top global university driving impactful science.
- Benefits: Sector-leading salary, 41 days annual leave, flexible working, and wellness support.
- Other info: Join a diverse community dedicated to equality and innovation.
- Why this job: Shape policy engagement at a pivotal moment and influence real-world challenges.
- Qualifications: Experience in policy management, exceptional writing skills, and strong networking abilities.
The predicted salary is between 40500 - 49500 £ per year.
The Head of Policy Programmes leads Imperial College London’s effort to connect our world-leading STEM research with the policymakers who need it most.
Working across themes including AI, national security and the energy transition, you will lead a small team to identify the right researchers, build the platforms to project their expertise, and provide timely, relevant and actionable insights for policymakers.
What you would be doing
Your central purpose is to lift Imperial's academic expertise into the policy conversations that matter.
Success is measured not by your own visibility but by the volume and quality of direct engagement between Imperial's researchers and the policymakers who need their evidence.
You will lead a team of policy professionals to build and maintain networks of policy-engaged researchers across Imperial, match their expertise to emerging opportunities, and design the events, briefings and evidence submissions that get the right academic voices heard by the right decision-makers.
You will also maintain your own senior network across Whitehall and Westminster, using it principally to open doors for Imperial's researchers.
Alongside this, you will own the Forum's standards and influencing framework, develop partnerships with think tanks, sector bodies and other universities, and contribute to the Forum's wider strategic planning.
- What we are looking for
- Substantial experience leading and managing in a policy or public affairs environment.
- A track record of developing and delivering policy engagement programmes or campaigns.
- Proven people management skills and the ability to deliver results through others.
- Exceptional policy writing skills and experience shaping organisational standards for policy influencing.
- Sound knowledge of the UK policy-making process, including Parliament and government.
- The ability to build productive partnerships across government, academia and industry, and to navigate complex political environments.
- What we can offer you
- The opportunity to shape Imperial's policy engagement at a formative moment, leading a programme that connects world-class STEM research to the defining policy challenges of our time
- The opportunity to continue your career at a world-leading institution and be part of our mission to use science for humanity.
- Benefit from a sector-leading salary and remuneration package (including 41 days’ annual leave and generous pension schemes).
- Access to a range of workplace benefits including a flexible working policy from day one, generous family leave packages, on-site leisure facilities and cycle-to-work scheme.
- Interest-free season ticket loan schemes for travel.
- Be part of a diverse, inclusive and collaborative work culture with various staff networks and resources to support your personal and professional wellbeing .
- Further information
This is a full-time, open-ended post (35 hours per week).
Staff in roles suitable for hybrid working will normally be expected to spend 60% of their time onsite.
If you require any further details about the role, please contact: Owen Jackson – Director, Imperial Policy Forum (
Attached documents are available under links. Clicking a document link will initialize its download.
Please note that job descriptions are not exhaustive, and you may be asked to take on additional duties that align with the key responsibilities mentioned above.
About Imperial
Welcome to Imperial, a global top-ten university where scientific imagination leads to world-changing impact.
Join us and be part of something bigger.
From global health to climate change, AI to business leadership, here at Imperial we navigate some of the world’s toughest challenges.
Whatever your role, your contribution will have a lasting impact.
As a member of our vibrant community of 22,000 students and 8,000 staff, you’ll collaborate with passionate minds across nine London campuses and a global network.
This is your chance to help shape the future. We hope you’ll join us at Imperial College London.
Our Culture
We work towards equality of opportunity, to eliminating discrimination, and to creating an inclusive working environment for all.
We encourage applications from all backgrounds, communities and industries, and are committed to employing a team that has diverse skills, experiences and abilities.
You can read more about our commitment on our web pages .
Proud signatory of the Armed Forces Covenant. We welcome applications from the Armed Forces community.
Our values are at the root of everything we do, and everyone in our community is expected to demonstrate respect, collaboration, excellence, integrity, and innovation.
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Head of Policy Programmes in London employer: SONICOM
At SONICOM, we pride ourselves on being an excellent employer by fostering a diverse and inclusive research environment that encourages collaboration and innovation. Our commitment to employee growth is reflected in our sector-leading salary and opportunities for professional development, making this an ideal place for passionate individuals to thrive in the field of mitochondrial medicine.
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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.
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How to prepare for a job interview at SONICOM
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✨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.
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