Principal Policy - Devolution in Sheffield

The devolution agenda is entering a new era. Across the country, Mayoral Combined Authorities are taking on greater powers, responsibilities and influence. Government is looking to places to drive growth, reform public services, tackle inequalities and deliver better outcomes for communities. The next phase of devolution will determine who controls investment, how public services are organised, and the extent to which places can shape their own futures. At the South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority, we are determined to be at the forefront of that conversation. We're looking for an exceptional policy leader to help shape the next chapter of devolution for South Yorkshire. This is a rare opportunity to influence national policy, work directly with senior leaders and Government, and help secure the powers, resources and freedoms that will enable South Yorkshire to achieve its ambitions for growth, opportunity and prosperity.

South Yorkshire has already secured significant devolved powers and investment. But the conversation is moving on. Questions about fiscal devolution, integrated settlements, public service reform, local control, investment freedoms and the future role of mayoral authorities are becoming increasingly central to Government policy. South Yorkshire intends to play a leading role in shaping those debates. As Principal Policy Lead (Devolution), you will sit at the heart of this work. You will help develop the region's positions on some of the most important policy questions facing the country, translating national reforms into opportunities for South Yorkshire and turning local ambition into credible, deliverable propositions for Government. You’ll lead work that influences decision‑making at the highest levels of local and national government while helping to ensure South Yorkshire continues to secure the powers and resources needed to deliver for our communities.

You’ll lead SYMCA's strategic policy work on devolution, working across the organisation and with partners to develop ambitious but deliverable propositions that strengthen local control and unlock investment. Your work will include:

• Shaping South Yorkshire's position on future devolution deals, powers, funding arrangements and institutional reform.
• Developing proposals on issues such as fiscal devolution, integrated settlements, public service reform and new approaches to investment.
• Advising senior leaders, the Mayor and Executive Leadership Team on emerging opportunities, risks and strategic choices.
• Leading complex cross‑organisational policy projects that bring together expertise from growth, skills, transport, housing, place, net zero and public service reform.
• Building influential relationships with Government departments, other mayoral authorities, local authorities, think tanks and national policy networks.
• Representing South Yorkshire in national forums and helping shape the wider devolution debate.
• Ensuring South Yorkshire is ready to respond quickly and effectively to emerging Government reforms and opportunities.

This is a role for someone who enjoys operating in complex environments, making sense of ambiguity and turning ideas into clear, evidence‑based policy propositions.

We're looking for someone who combines strategic thinking with practical delivery. You’ll have significant experience of policy development, public policy, strategy, devolution, local government, economic development or public service reform. You’ll be comfortable operating at senior levels, influencing stakeholders and building consensus across organisations and sectors. Most importantly, you’ll be excited by the opportunity to help shape the future relationship between places and Government. You’ll be someone who:

• Understands the opportunities and challenges facing devolved government.
• Can develop compelling policy propositions grounded in evidence and delivery reality.
• Builds trusted relationships and influences effectively across organisational boundaries.
• Is politically aware and comfortable working in a complex stakeholder environment.
• Can communicate complex issues clearly to a range of audiences.
• Enjoys finding practical solutions to strategic challenges.

South Yorkshire is a place with huge ambition. Under the leadership of Mayor Oliver Coppard, we're working to create a stronger, greener, healthier and more prosperous South Yorkshire. We're investing in transport, supporting business growth, driving innovation, tackling inequalities and creating opportunities for our communities. The devolution agenda is central to that ambition. This role offers the chance to help shape not only South Yorkshire's future, but the future of devolution itself. Few policy roles offer this level of influence, visibility and opportunity. If you're excited by the prospect of helping define the next generation of devolved government, we'd love to hear from you. Join us and help shape what comes next.

All colleagues have access to a Local Government Pension Scheme and the chance to be part of an organisation where you can really make a difference. Located in Sheffield City Centre, we are well‑placed for transport links and encourage employees to take advantage of active travel facilities. Work/life balance is extremely important to us here at SYMCA with our recognised family/friendly policies, genuine work flexibility, recognition, and shared success. In addition to the above, some of our benefits include:

• Holiday Entitlement – From 28 to 36 days annual leave entitlement (depending on length of service) plus bank holidays. Pro‑rata for part‑time colleagues.
• Annual Leave Purchase Scheme – The ability to purchase up to a further 15 days per year in addition to your normal annual leave.
• Hybrid working – Our offices are a space where we come together and collaborate. Most of our roles are offered on a hybrid basis with the exception of some support roles being onsite full time.
• Flexible Hours Scheme – Most roles within SYMCA work under the Flexi‑Scheme which allows office‑based employees’ flexibility and discretion over their working hours.
• Rewarding You – Reducing everyday expenses through discounts, benefits, financial advice, wellbeing solutions and more with Reward Gateway and Cycle‑to‑Work schemes.
• Training on the job – Support with upskilling skills through on‑the‑job training and qualifications.
• Professional Membership Fees – Where membership to professional bodies is applicable to your role, SYMCA will reimburse your membership fees where applicable and following approval by Line Management.

Diversity at South Yorkshire Combined Mayoral Authority – Our workforce is made up of a diverse community, where we all belong and feel part of something bigger. We are committed to equality of opportunity and welcome applications from individuals, regardless of age, gender, ethnicity, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, socio‑economic background, religion and/or belief. All employees are eligible to request Flexible Working arrangements from day one of employment as such all requests will be considered subject to operation requirements.