At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead impactful policy development to tackle climate and nature challenges.
- Company: Join WWF-UK, a leading charity dedicated to environmental conservation.
- Benefits: Enjoy 26+ days of annual leave, flexible working, and a generous pension scheme.
- Other info: Be part of a diverse team committed to inclusivity and positive change.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in global policy while shaping a sustainable future.
- Qualifications: Extensive experience in policy influence and strong leadership skills required.
The predicted salary is between 82450 - 82450 £ per year.
Location: Living Planet Centre, Woking, Surrey
Contract: Permanent, full time (35 hours)
Hybrid working: Minimum 40% in person collaboration per month
Salary: £82,450 + excellent benefits
Safeguarding level: Level Two
About the role
We’re looking for a highly strategic Director of Policy with deep experience of influencing policy and political decision-making to lead WWF-UK’s policy development and influence at a critical moment for climate and nature. This is a senior leadership role at the heart of WWF-UK’s strategy and impact. Working across advocacy, conservation, science, in the UK and internationally, you will shape and drive a small number of high-impact policy priorities capable of unlocking meaningful change across systems including food, finance, trade and land use. You will lead a high-performing Policy team, strengthening WWF-UK’s ability to respond quickly and credibly to political opportunities with deliverable solutions. This is a role for someone who combines deep policy expertise with sharp political judgement, trusted relationship-building and the ability to influence both behind the scenes and at the highest levels externally.
Working with the advocacy Directorate, you will build and maintain trusted senior relationships across Whitehall, including with departments such as the Cabinet Office, Treasury and FCDO, helping shape thinking early and informally while also influencing policy development and implementation with colleagues and partners internationally. Alongside leading and developing a collaborative and confident team, you will contribute as a senior organisational leader, helping shape direction, organisational outcomes and strategic decision-making across WWF-UK. This is an opportunity to lead policy work that helps tackle some of the world’s most urgent challenges, while building the partnerships, coalitions and political influence needed to turn ideas into action and impact.
Skills and experience
- Significant senior-level experience of developing and influencing policy through to implementation, including shaping practical and politically deliverable solutions
- Strong understanding of UK political and policy-making environments, including experience of influencing senior stakeholders, policy makers and decision-makers through trusted relationships
- Experience of operating effectively in fast-moving and politically sensitive environments, responding quickly and credibly to emerging opportunities and challenges
- Track record of delivering high-impact policy outcomes across complex issues and multiple stakeholders
- Experience of building and maintaining senior relationships across government, business, civil society, finance or international institutions
- Strong strategic judgement with the ability to identify priorities, simplify complexity and focus organisations around a small number of actionable policy asks
- Experience of leading, motivating and developing high-performing teams, including matrix and cross-organisational leadership
- Experience of leading organisational or cross-functional priorities through collaboration, influence and strong stakeholder engagement
- Experience of managing significant programmes, budgets and organisational priorities effectively
- Excellent communication and influencing skills, with the ability to communicate complex policy issues clearly and persuasively to different audiences
- Strong analytical skills and confidence using evidence, insight and data to shape decisions and influence policy
- Ability to work calmly and effectively under pressure, balancing strategic thinking with delivery and pace
- Commitment to inclusive leadership and experience of building equitable, diverse and inclusive approaches to policy development and decision-making
- Strong self-awareness, resilience and openness to challenge, feedback and learning
- Experience of influencing international policy, coalitions or global advocacy agendas
- Experience of working across devolved policy environments including Scotland, Wales and/or Northern Ireland
- Understanding of climate, nature, food, finance, trade or land use policy
- Experience of developing policy-led partnerships, funding proposals or income generation opportunities with funders, businesses or philanthropic organisations
- Experience of involving affected communities or external partners in policy development and design
- Experience of working across advocacy, science, conservation or campaigning environments
- Experience of building voluntary action or partnership-based approaches alongside formal policy and regulation
- Fluency or working proficiency in languages other than English would be advantageous
What we offer
We believe in rewarding our team with more than just a salary. Here’s what you can expect:
- Annual leave starting at 26 days a year, rising one day each year to 31 days plus bank holidays
- Flexible working options, to support your work life balance
- 7.5% employer contribution to pension, rising to 10% with employee contribution
- Learning and development opportunities to help you grow
- Regular wellbeing initiatives to support your health and happiness.
This role is a UK based contract, and you are required to have the Right to Work in the UK. Unfortunately, we’re unable to offer sponsorship and any offer of employment will be subject to evidence of your Right to Work in the UK. This role is hybrid with a minimum 40% of your contracted hours spent at our UK head office, the Living Planet Centre in Woking, Surrey.
Our Diversity Promise to You
At the heart of our mission is a simple truth: the planet needs everyone. That means you - in all your uniqueness, regardless of age, disability, gender identity, marital status, race, faith or belief, sexual orientation, socioeconomic background, or how you choose to express yourself. We don’t do stereotypes. We work together with purpose, driven by passion and enhanced by respect, courage, and integrity. We pull together from all walks of life to fight for a better future, and we want you to feel supported every step of the way. We’re proud to be a Disability Confident employer and are committed to creating an inclusive workplace where everyone feels they belong. We actively encourage applications from people of all backgrounds and identities. So, if there’s anything we can do to make your application or interview experience more comfortable or accessible, just give our Talent Acquisition Team a shout at recruitment@wwf.org.uk
Safeguarding Commitment
Just as we celebrate diversity in all its forms, we are equally dedicated to creating a safe environment for every person we work with or encounter. Our commitment extends to children, adults at risk, and individuals experiencing any form of vulnerability, whether temporary or permanent. We proudly stand behind CAPSEAH (Common Approach to Protection from Sexual Exploitation, Sexual Abuse and Sexual Harassment) and put this commitment into action through clear policies, thorough training, and recruitment checks tailored to each role, which may include external vetting. If you ever have a concern, however big or small, know that there are confidential channels ready to support you at WWF-UK. We promise to respond promptly and with care, because protecting every individual is at the heart of everything we do.
Director of Policy in Woking employer: WWF-UK, Ltd.
WWF-UK is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment at the Living Planet Centre in Woking, Surrey, where you can make a tangible impact on climate and nature policy. With a strong commitment to employee wellbeing, flexible working options, and generous annual leave, we foster a culture of inclusivity and collaboration, empowering our team to grow through continuous learning and development opportunities. Join us to lead meaningful change while being part of a passionate community dedicated to protecting our planet.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Director of Policy in Woking
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with people in the policy field. Attend events, join relevant groups, and don’t be shy about reaching out to folks on LinkedIn. Building those relationships can open doors you didn’t even know existed.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by knowing your stuff! Research WWF-UK’s current policies and initiatives. Be ready to discuss how your experience aligns with their goals. Show them you’re not just another candidate; you’re the one they need to drive impactful change.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! You’ll want to clearly articulate your vision for policy development and how you can influence decision-making. Keep it concise but powerful—think of it as your personal brand statement that showcases your expertise and passion.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to engage directly with us. So, hit that apply button and let’s get the conversation started!
We think you need these skills to ace Director of Policy in Woking
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the Director of Policy role. Highlight your relevant experience in influencing policy and political decision-making, as this is key for us at WWF-UK.
Showcase Your Strategic Thinking:We want to see how you approach complex issues. Use examples from your past work to demonstrate your strategic judgement and ability to simplify complexity into actionable policy asks.
Highlight Relationship-Building Skills:Since this role involves building trusted relationships across various sectors, share specific instances where you've successfully influenced senior stakeholders or collaborated with diverse teams.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensure you’re considered for this exciting opportunity.
How to prepare for a job interview at WWF-UK, Ltd.
✨Know Your Policy Inside Out
Before the interview, dive deep into WWF-UK's current policy priorities and recent initiatives. Familiarise yourself with their approach to climate and nature issues, as well as any recent developments in UK political landscapes that could impact their work. This will not only show your genuine interest but also allow you to engage in meaningful discussions.
✨Build Your Story of Influence
Prepare specific examples from your past experiences where you've successfully influenced policy or decision-making. Highlight your strategic judgement and how you've navigated complex political environments. Be ready to discuss how you built relationships with senior stakeholders and the tangible outcomes of your efforts.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
As a Director of Policy, your leadership style is crucial. Be prepared to discuss how you motivate and develop high-performing teams. Share examples of how you've fostered collaboration across different departments or organisations, and how you’ve handled challenges while maintaining team morale and focus.
✨Communicate Clearly and Confidently
Practice articulating complex policy issues in a clear and persuasive manner. During the interview, aim to communicate your ideas succinctly, ensuring they resonate with the interviewers. Use data and evidence to back up your points, demonstrating your analytical skills and ability to make informed decisions.
