Role: Policy, Technical & Communications Assistant
Contract Type: Fixed-term, full-time for 12 months
Closing Date: Wednesday 10th June 2026
About the Role
The Ulster Farmers’ Union (UFU) is looking for a proactive and detail-oriented Policy, Technical & Communications Assistant to join our team on a 12-month contract. Reporting to the Assistant Policy Manager, you will play a vital role across multiple teams, supporting real-time issues affecting the farming and growing industry while gaining exposure to policy development, technical work, stakeholder engagement and strategic communications.
Key Responsibilities
- Support the research and analysis of key policy and technical issues, helping to prepare briefings, summaries and reports
- Assist in monitoring policy and industry developments, ensuring teams remain informed and responsive
- Contribute to communications activity, including drafting press releases, website content and social media posts
- Support the delivery of campaigns and key messaging across policy and communications
- Assist with stakeholder engagement, including meetings, events and workshops with members, policymakers and industry representatives
- Provide support to committees and working groups, including preparation of papers and minute-taking
- Contribute to project work across policy, technical and communications teams, with opportunities to take ownership of specific tasks
- Work collaboratively across teams to support wider organisational priorities
- Provide general administrative support to ensure the smooth running of the teams
- Be flexible in supporting other teams across the organisation where required
What You Will Gain
- Experience working across policy, technical and communications functions
- Exposure to key industry issues and decision‑making processes
- Experience engaging with stakeholders and contributing to real‑world outcomes
- Development of skills in research, analysis, writing and communication
- A strong understanding of the agriculture sector and policy landscape
- The opportunity to build a professional network across the industry
25 days annual leave + NI public and bank holidays; car mileage for travel; cycle to work scheme; employee assistance programme.
- Have qualified or is currently undertaking a third‑level qualification in a relevant subject (e.g. Agriculture, Politics, Public Policy, Communications, Environmental Studies or related field)
- A strong interest in agriculture, rural affairs, policy or communications
- Good research and analytical skills, with the ability to understand and summarise complex information
- Strong written and verbal communication skills
- Ability to work both independently and as part of a team
- Good organisational skills and attention to detail
- Willingness to learn, show initiative and adapt to a varied role
- Access to a vehicle and a valid driving licence
- Knowledge of agricultural issues and policy
