Head of Policy

Join the Sustainable Food Trust and Help Shape the Future of Food & Farming

The Sustainable Food Trust (SFT) is a leading UK charity working to accelerate the transition to sustainable food and farming systems. We believe healthy soil, plants, animals and people are intrinsically connected, and our mission is to create food systems that work in harmony with nature while nourishing both people and the planet.

Working across policy, research, sustainability measurement, public engagement and advocacy, we collaborate with governments, industry leaders, farmers, researchers and campaign groups to drive meaningful change.

We're looking for an experienced and strategic Head of Policy to lead our policy agenda and help influence the future of sustainable food and farming in the UK.

About the Role

This is a unique opportunity for an ambitious policy professional who enjoys spotting opportunities, building relationships and driving change. Reporting into the senior leadership team, you will lead the development of SFT's policy strategy, ensuring our research, projects and practical experience translate into impactful policy recommendations and real-world outcomes.

You’ll work closely with colleagues across research, communications and project delivery, while representing SFT within key sector networks, alliances and stakeholder groups.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and develop the Sustainable Food Trust's policy strategy, ensuring alignment with organisational objectives.
• Identify emerging government policy developments, risks and opportunities across the food, farming and sustainability sectors.
• Develop clear policy positions, recommendations and advocacy priorities based on research findings and project outcomes.
• Draft high-quality policy papers, consultation responses, reports, briefings and submissions for government and sector stakeholders.
• Represent SFT at policy forums, conferences, stakeholder meetings and industry events.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with policymakers, government departments, parliamentarians, partner organisations and sector leaders.
• Collaborate with alliances, networks and coalitions to deliver campaigns and influence policy outcomes.
• Translate complex research, technical information and legislation into accessible and engaging policy messages.
• Support media and communications activity through policy-based statements, commentary, blogs and press releases.
• Contribute to organisational planning, budget management, funding applications and grant reporting.

About You

• Strong knowledge of food and farming policy and the challenges and opportunities facing the sector.
• Demonstrable experience working in policy, advocacy, campaigning or public affairs.
• Understanding of how UK policymaking works, including government, public bodies and stakeholder engagement.
• Experience engaging with policymakers, government departments, parliamentarians or public sector organisations.
• Ability to analyse complex policy, regulatory and legal documents and communicate key messages clearly.
• Excellent written communication skills with experience producing policy reports, briefings and consultation responses.
• Strong verbal communication and stakeholder management skills.
• Experience building partnerships and working collaboratively within networks, coalitions or alliances.
• Strategic mindset with the ability to manage multiple priorities and workstreams.
• Comfortable switching between high-level strategic planning and detailed policy analysis.
• Experience leading, mentoring or supporting colleagues.
• Self-motivated, proactive and able to work independently while contributing effectively as part of a team.
• Strong commitment to the Sustainable Food Trust's mission and values.

Job details

Permanent contract

Full time – 37.5 hours per week

At the Sustainable Food Trust, you'll be joining a respected organisation with significant influence across the food, farming and sustainability sectors. This is an opportunity to help shape national policy, work with leading experts and decision-makers, and contribute to meaningful, long-term change.

Location

Flexible hybrid working – home/remote and office (Bristol based). Travel to other places of work may be required.Must be based in the UK and eligible to work in the UK.

We are committed to building a diverse and inclusive workplace and welcome applications from people of all backgrounds, experiences and perspectives.