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- Tasks: Lead policy development and advocacy to amplify student voices across various platforms.
- Company: Dynamic organisation in a vibrant student city focused on inclusivity.
- Benefits: Hybrid working, great staff perks, and clear career progression.
- Why this job: Shape impactful policies that directly affect student life and experiences.
- Qualifications: Experience in policy development, strong writing skills, and stakeholder engagement.
- Other info: Join a supportive team committed to transparency and student issues.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Job Description
Please Note: We are unable to accept applications via external sites and email. Please apply via our website.
Are you ready to shape the future of student life through bold, evidence-based policy in one the UK’s most exciting student cities?
We are looking for a strategic and collaborative Head of Policy to lead our policy development and advocacy work, ensuring students’ voices are heard and acted upon across the university, city, and national platforms.
As Head of Policy, you’ll lead the development of student-led, evidence-informed policy work that reflects the lived experiences of our diverse student body. You’ll monitor developments across the higher education sector, local government, and Westminster, and produce compelling outputs that influence decision-makers and drive change.
Reporting to the Associate Director of Student Influence, the Head of Policy will play a key role in shaping our strategic external engagement, supporting elected student leaders, and building strong relationships with stakeholders across the university and beyond.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead the creation of influential policy briefings, consultation responses, and reports
- Monitor and respond to policy developments affecting students and students’ unions
- Translate complex ideas into persuasive communications for a range of audiences
- Build relationships with university departments, local government, and sector bodies
- Support the development of policy skills across the organisation
- Align policy work across democratic outputs, insight, student campaigns and staff expertise
Essential Criteria
We welcome applicants from all educational backgrounds. You’ll need to demonstrate:
- Proven experience in policy development and advocacy
- Excellent writing and analytical skills
- Strong stakeholder engagement and relationship-building abilities
- Experience in people management and team leadership
- Ability to work in a fast-paced, evolving environment
- Passion for student issues and a commitment to inclusivity and transparency
Why Join Us
- Great staff benefitsÂ
- Hybrid working options
- Clear progression pathways through our graded role structure
- A supportive, inclusive, and values-driven workplace
Please read the full role profile before applying, as well as our guide to recruitment.
Head of Policy employer: The University of Manchester students union
Contact Detail:
The University of Manchester students union Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Policy
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the company inside out! Research their values, recent projects, and any policy initiatives they've been involved in. This will help you tailor your conversations and show that you're genuinely interested in shaping student life.
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former employees on LinkedIn, attend relevant events, and engage with their social media. Building relationships can give you insider info and might just land you a recommendation.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by practising your responses to common questions, especially around policy development and advocacy. Use real examples from your experience to demonstrate your skills and passion for student issues.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the only way we’re accepting applications, so make sure you follow the instructions carefully. Good luck, and we can’t wait to see what you bring to the table!
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Policy
Some tips for your application 🫡
Read the Job Description Carefully: Before you start writing, make sure to read the job description thoroughly. It’ll give you a clear idea of what we’re looking for in a candidate and help you tailor your application to highlight your relevant experience.
Showcase Your Writing Skills: As a Head of Policy, strong writing skills are essential. Use your application to demonstrate your ability to communicate complex ideas clearly and persuasively. Keep it concise but impactful!
Be Authentic: We want to hear your voice! Don’t be afraid to let your personality shine through in your application. Share your passion for student issues and how your experiences have shaped your views on policy development.
Apply Through Our Website: Remember, we can only accept applications via our website, so make sure to submit your application there. It’s the best way for us to receive your details and get the process rolling!
How to prepare for a job interview at The University of Manchester students union
✨Know Your Policy Stuff
Make sure you’re up to speed with current policy issues affecting students. Research recent developments in higher education and local government that could impact the role. This will show your passion and commitment to student advocacy.
✨Craft Compelling Narratives
Prepare to discuss how you can translate complex ideas into persuasive communications. Think of examples where you've successfully communicated policy changes or influenced decision-makers. This will highlight your writing and analytical skills.
✨Build Relationships on the Spot
During the interview, demonstrate your stakeholder engagement abilities. Be ready to share experiences where you’ve built strong relationships with various stakeholders. This will showcase your collaborative spirit and people management skills.
✨Show Your Passion for Inclusivity
Express your commitment to inclusivity and transparency in your work. Share specific examples of how you’ve advocated for diverse voices in policy development. This will resonate well with their values and mission.