At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead climate policy initiatives and engage with key stakeholders to drive impactful change.
- Company: Join the University of Cambridge's innovative Cambridge Zero team focused on sustainability.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible working options, and a chance to make a real difference.
- Why this job: Be at the forefront of climate policy and contribute to a sustainable future.
- Qualifications: Experience in climate-related research and public policy engagement is essential.
- Other info: Opportunity for career growth in a dynamic and supportive environment.
The predicted salary is between 36700 - 48700 Β£ per year.
Cambridge Zero has an exciting opportunity to be part of our new Policy Unit, whose function is to promote the integration of academic evidence and expertise on climate-related policies into policymaking and advocacy. The Policy Unit will focus on coordinating and developing policy analysis and ideas, working in partnership with academics and researchers to build a bridge between academia and key policy stakeholders on climate change through events and other direct engagement such as policy briefings, and supporting academics to deliver policy engagement through policy consultations and research proposals.
Do you have experience of working across climate-related topics and:
- Research translation
- Public policy research analysis
- Policy stakeholder engagement
In this role, you will organise, manage and deliver activities for the Cambridge Zero policy programme, building on its existing portfolio of activities and developing new ones. The successful candidate will work closely with the Cambridge Zero Management Team and the Head of Policy Unit to deliver the CZ overall policy strategy and inform updates to it, and will supervise the Policy Coordinator. The Policy Unit will work across public policy at a local, national and international level.
Cambridge Zero exists to maximise the University of Cambridge's contribution towards achieving a resilient and sustainable world. We do this by enabling, integrating and accelerating climate activities related to education, research and innovation. We work in a co-ordinating and supporting role across the full academic lifecycle, connecting, convening and engaging the full breadth of the greater University community (i.e. the University, Colleges and related institutions). Acting in close collaboration and partnership with a broad range of University functions, we help integrate, enhance and accelerate climate activities.
The deadline for applications is midnight on 22nd February 2026. Fixed-term: The funds for this post are available for 3 years in the first instance. Once an offer of employment has been accepted, the successful candidate will be required to undergo a health assessment. Applications are welcome from internal candidates who would like to apply for the role on the basis of a secondment from their current role in the University. We welcome applications from individuals who wish to be considered for part-time working or other flexible working arrangements. We particularly welcome applications from women and/or candidates from a BME background for this vacancy, as they are currently under-represented at this level in our department.
Click the 'Apply' button below to register an account with our recruitment system (if you have not already) and apply online. Please upload your CV and Cover letter to the application. Please note that additional uploaded documents will not be considered as part of the recruitment. You should clearly set out how you meet the criteria listed in the person specification (the skills and experience required for the role), along with relevant examples. Candidates will be shortlisted based on these criteria.
Interviews: w/c 9th March 2026. For informal enquiries regarding this position, please contact Nina Martin, Operations Manager. Please quote reference LP48572 on your application and in any correspondence about this vacancy. The University actively supports equality, diversity and inclusion and encourages applications from all sections of society. The University has a responsibility to ensure that all employees are eligible to live and work in the UK.
Policy Manager (Fixed Term) employer: University of Cambridge
Contact Detail:
University of Cambridge Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice π€«
We think this is how you could land Policy Manager (Fixed Term)
β¨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the climate policy space, attend relevant events, and engage with academics and stakeholders. Building relationships can open doors that a CV just can't.
β¨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by knowing your stuff! Research Cambridge Zero's current projects and think about how your experience aligns with their goals. Show them youβre not just another candidate, but someone who truly gets their mission.
β¨Tip Number 3
Practice makes perfect! Do mock interviews with friends or mentors to get comfortable talking about your experiences and how they relate to the role. The more you practice, the more confident you'll feel when it counts.
β¨Tip Number 4
Donβt forget to apply through our website! Itβs the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Make sure to tailor your CV and cover letter to highlight your relevant skills and experiences for the Policy Manager role.
We think you need these skills to ace Policy Manager (Fixed Term)
Some tips for your application π«‘
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Policy Manager role. Highlight your experience in climate-related topics and public policy research analysis. We want to see how your skills align with what we're looking for!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about climate policy and how your background makes you a great fit for our team. Remember, we love seeing relevant examples!
Follow the Application Instructions: When applying, be sure to follow all the instructions carefully. Upload only your CV and cover letter as specified, and donβt forget to quote the reference LP48572 in your application. We appreciate attention to detail!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply through our website for a smooth application process. Itβs easy to register an account and submit your application online. We canβt wait to see what you bring to the table!
How to prepare for a job interview at University of Cambridge
β¨Know Your Climate Policy Stuff
Make sure you brush up on the latest climate-related policies and research. Familiarise yourself with Cambridge Zero's initiatives and how they align with current public policy trends. This will show your genuine interest and understanding of the role.
β¨Showcase Your Stakeholder Engagement Skills
Prepare examples of how you've successfully engaged with policy stakeholders in the past. Think about specific instances where your communication skills made a difference. This is crucial for a Policy Manager, so be ready to discuss your approach.
β¨Tailor Your CV and Cover Letter
When applying, ensure your CV and cover letter highlight relevant experiences that match the job description. Use keywords from the job listing to demonstrate that you meet the criteria. This will help you stand out during the shortlisting process.
β¨Practice Makes Perfect
Conduct mock interviews with a friend or mentor to practice answering common interview questions. Focus on articulating your thoughts clearly and confidently, especially regarding your experience in research translation and public policy analysis.