At a Glance
- Tasks: Support international engagement and policy advice in global research and innovation.
- Company: The British Academy, the UK's leading body for humanities and social sciences.
- Benefits: Flexible working hours, 34 days annual leave, and a competitive benefits package.
- Other info: Join a collaborative culture focused on wellbeing, diversity, and professional growth.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on global research policies and engage with influential stakeholders.
- Qualifications: Experience in international engagement and research policy is essential.
The predicted salary is between 55000 - 65000 £ per year.
The British Academy – the UK’s national body for the humanities and social sciences - is seeking a Senior International Policy Adviser to join our Global Strategy, Policy & Engagement Team in the Policy Directorate, providing key support in taking forward the Academy’s international engagement and policy advice.
This is a new role in the Academy’s Global Strategy, Policy & Engagement Team. This role has a substantive focus on global research and innovation policy and EU research and innovation and international mobility policy and particularly will help to build out the Academy’s global research and innovation policy activities to begin with. This might include, for example, exploring the international connectedness of the humanities and social sciences in an increasingly contested world, the role of and support needed for the humanities and social sciences in this international funding landscape, and the importance of the SHAPE disciplines to international innovation collaboration.
The role would be well suited to candidates who have experience in international engagement and international research and innovation policy who are able to hit the ground running and are comfortable engaging with policymakers, researchers and the research and innovation sector more widely. The role has significant external-facing responsibility, requiring the building of impactful relationships and being able to effectively challenge stakeholders and counterparts.
About the Academy: The British Academy is the UK’s national body for the humanities and social sciences, established by Royal Charter in 1902. We mobilise these disciplines to understand the world and shape a brighter future. Today’s complex challenges can only be resolved by deepening our insight into people, culture, and societies. With a Fellowship of around 1,700 leading national and international academics, the Academy invests in researchers and projects across the UK and overseas; engages the public with fresh thinking and debates; and brings together scholars, government, business, and civil society to influence policy.
The Academy currently has five directorates: Communications & Marketing; Development; Policy; Research; and Resources, plus a small Governance & Fellowship Team.
Working at the Academy: Our senior management team have worked with staff to foster a culture of collaboration, respect, and empathy, in which all contributions are recognised as we work towards our common goals. Our people strategy and working practices focus on building strengths and sharing insights, with learning & development, wellbeing, and equality, diversity & inclusion at the centre of how we operate as an organisation. Investing in our staff and encouraging a healthy work/life balance is central to our success, as we move forward and continue to grow.
Terms and conditions: The British Academy is based at 10-11, Carlton House Terrace, London SW1, a Grade 1 listed building. We offer a competitive benefits package including a 35-hour working week, with hours and location worked flexibly under our hybrid-working policy; 34 days’ annual leave plus Bank Holidays; a subsidised canteen and an excellent occupational pension.
How to apply: We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds, in line with our commitment to create a diverse and inclusive working environment, promote equal opportunity, and address under-representation. We will make reasonable adjustments to support disabled job applicants and offer an interview to those meeting the minimum selection criteria. Please contact the HR team if you have any questions. To apply, and to see the full job description and our workplace values, please follow the apply link to visit our recruitment platform.
Closing date: Midday on 23 July 2026. Interviews for this role are currently scheduled for 3/4 August 2026, but this may be subject to change. We reserve the right to close this vacancy earlier than the advertised closing date if we receive a high volume of applications. In such circumstances, we will provide 24 hours' notice of the revised closing date to those who have registered their interest.
Senior International Policy Adviser employer: The British Academy
The British Academy is an exceptional employer, offering a collaborative work culture that values the contributions of each team member within its dedicated publishing department. Employees benefit from opportunities for professional growth and development in the humanities and social sciences, all while working in a prestigious institution located in the heart of the UK. With a commitment to fostering a supportive environment, the Academy ensures that every Publishing Assistant can thrive and make a meaningful impact on the academic community.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior International Policy Adviser
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We think you need these skills to ace Senior International Policy Adviser
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.
Tailor Your CV to Reflect Core Competencies:Government positions often require a clear demonstration of competencies such as communication, teamwork, and problem-solving. Try to structure your CV to highlight these skills, using specific examples of how you’ve applied them in past experiences, ideally with quantifiable outcomes where possible.
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How to prepare for a job interview at The British Academy
✨Get to Know Public Sector Values
Before your interview with The British Academy, dig deep into their mission and values, especially how they align with public service and community impact. Understand the key policies or initiatives they are involved in – you’ll want to show that you genuinely care about serving the community.
✨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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The government sector thrives on collaboration. Be ready to discuss how you've successfully worked in diverse teams or involved stakeholders in your projects. Show us how you bring people together to get a common goal achieved – that's what public service is all about!
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Craft a few STAR (Situation, Task, Action, Result) stories that demonstrate your experience in similar roles. Whether it’s a project that made a difference in the community or a challenging situation you managed, be ready to express how your skills and experiences make you a valuable asset for The British Academy.
