At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the development of culture and creative industries policy for economic growth.
- Company: Join the West Midlands Combined Authority, shaping a vibrant creative region.
- Benefits: Generous pension scheme, 28 days leave, healthcare plans, and discounts on shopping.
- Other info: Collaborative environment with opportunities for professional growth and community engagement.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on the creative economy and drive inclusive growth.
- Qualifications: Strong knowledge of creative industries and experience in policy development.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 50000 € per year.
At the West Midlands Combined Authority, we are shaping a region where creativity and culture sit at the heart of economic growth, placemaking and opportunity. We are seeking a Policy Manager to join our Culture and Creative Economy team to lead on the development of culture and creative industries policy, helping ensure the West Midlands continues to grow as a leading creative region.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead the development, integration and delivery of culture and creative industries policy across the region.
- Shape strategy that connects creativity to productivity, inclusive growth and placemaking outcomes.
- Commission, interpret and apply research and evidence to inform policy, investment decisions and programme design.
- Develop robust, Green Book–compliant investment propositions and policy frameworks.
- Provide high-quality briefings, reports and strategic advice to senior leaders and government stakeholders.
- Lead engagement with local authorities, creative sector partners, industry bodies and national organisations.
- Support and facilitate governance groups, working groups and industry-led boards.
- Represent WMCA at senior external meetings and events, championing the region’s creative agenda.
- Contribute to the design of new programmes, pilots and funding bids.
- Support monitoring, evaluation and reporting of key projects and interventions.
- Manage delegated budgets and ensure value for money, strong governance and financial integrity.
- Work closely with communications colleagues to promote the region’s cultural and creative strengths.
Desired Qualifications and Skills
- Strong knowledge of the culture and creative industries and their role in inclusive economic growth.
- Experience developing policy, strategy or programmes in a complex stakeholder environment.
- Confidence in managing politically sensitive issues with sound judgement.
- Experience producing high-quality reports, briefings and policy analysis.
- Strong stakeholder management skills across public, private and voluntary sectors.
- Experience facilitating meetings, partnerships or governance structures.
- Ability to translate research and evidence into clear, actionable policy.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to influence senior audiences.
- A collaborative working style and commitment to partnership working.
Location
The role is based at Summer Lane with at least 2 days a week spent in the office.
Contract
This is a fixed-term contract until 31st March 2029.
Benefits
- Local Government Pension Scheme – one of the most generous pension schemes in the UK.
- Shared Cost Additional Voluntary Contribution scheme to build an additional pot of money alongside your pension with contributions exempt from Income Tax and National Insurance contributions.
- 28 days paid annual leave (with an option to purchase more) + Statutory days.
- EV car benefit scheme.
- Healthcare plans.
- Discounted gym membership, will writing, and mortgage advice.
- Option to buy a bicycle, including e‑bikes and adapted pedal cycles, at a discounted rate.
- 3 days of paid leave each year to volunteer.
- Interest‑free financing through SmartTech to buy the latest technology.
- Discounted shopping with over 2,000 big‑name retailers, and a Costco membership through the WMCA.
- Boundless unlocks unlimited entry to top‑rated UK attractions and loads of extra benefits and discounts.
- Eye Care Scheme, offering a free eye test and a financial contribution towards your glasses.
Right to Work
Proof of Right to Work in the UK is required for all applicants. Non‑UK applicants (excluding Ireland) must hold a relevant visa from UK Visas and Immigration.
Policy Manager - Culture and Creative Economy employer: West Midlands Combined Authority
At the West Midlands Combined Authority, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer dedicated to fostering creativity and culture as key drivers of economic growth. Our collaborative work culture encourages innovation and inclusivity, while our comprehensive benefits package, including a generous pension scheme and opportunities for professional development, ensures that our employees thrive both personally and professionally. Join us in shaping a vibrant creative economy in the West Midlands, where your contributions will make a meaningful impact on the community.
Contact Detail:
West Midlands Combined Authority Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Policy Manager - Culture and Creative Economy
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with people in the culture and creative industries. Attend events, join relevant groups, and don’t be shy about reaching out to folks on LinkedIn. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings!
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your expertise! When you get the chance to chat with potential employers or industry leaders, share your insights on policy and strategy in the creative sector. This will not only demonstrate your knowledge but also help you stand out as a candidate who’s genuinely passionate about the field.
✨Tip Number 3
Be proactive! If you see a role that excites you, don’t wait for the perfect moment. Apply through our website and follow up with a friendly email expressing your enthusiasm. A little initiative can go a long way in making a memorable impression.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare for interviews by researching the organisation and its projects. Be ready to discuss how your skills align with their goals in the culture and creative economy. Tailoring your responses to reflect their mission will show that you’re not just another applicant, but someone who truly gets what they’re about.
We think you need these skills to ace Policy Manager - Culture and Creative Economy
Some tips for your application 🫡
Know Your Stuff:Make sure you really understand the culture and creative industries. We want to see your passion for how they drive economic growth and placemaking. Show us that you can connect creativity to productivity in your application!
Tailor Your Application:Don’t just send a generic CV and cover letter. We’re looking for specific examples of your experience in developing policy and strategy. Highlight your stakeholder management skills and how you've navigated complex environments before.
Showcase Your Writing Skills:Since this role involves producing high-quality reports and briefings, make sure your application reflects your excellent written communication skills. Keep it clear, concise, and engaging – we want to be impressed from the get-go!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets into the right hands. Plus, it shows us you’re keen on joining our team at StudySmarter!
How to prepare for a job interview at West Midlands Combined Authority
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you have a solid understanding of the culture and creative industries, especially how they contribute to economic growth. Brush up on recent policies and initiatives in the West Midlands to show that you're genuinely interested and informed.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Prepare specific examples from your past work where you've developed policy or strategy in complex environments. Be ready to discuss how you managed stakeholder relationships and navigated politically sensitive issues with confidence.
✨Communicate Clearly
Practice articulating your thoughts clearly and concisely. You’ll need to demonstrate your ability to produce high-quality reports and briefings, so think about how you can convey complex ideas simply and effectively during the interview.
✨Engage with the Team
Since collaboration is key for this role, be prepared to discuss how you work within teams and facilitate partnerships. Think of examples where you've successfully led meetings or governance structures, and be ready to share your approach to fostering a collaborative environment.
