We currently have an immediate requirement for a Junior Policy Officer, to work for a professional organisation based in rural Hertfordshire.

The role would suit a graduate with some experience/interest in policy research who is looking for a short but solid interim role to build on their policy experience.  They are looking for someone to start immediately for a four month period, until the end of March 2018.

You will be assisting the Policy Research Manager with the day to day delivery of policy and research strategy to ensure policy objectives are achieved.

Key responsibilities will include:

• Assist in the policy, research, parliamentary and related campaign work.
• Assist the Policy & Research manager in the design, collection and dissemination of survey research.
• Carry out regular monitoring of external policy and research developments including but not limited to, vocational education, apprenticeships, Brexit, employment etc. 
• Proactively support and brief all relevant stakeholders and sections on policy developments as required.
• Coordinate and submit briefings, reports and consultation responses with the Policy & Research Manager to government and parliamentarians and other key stakeholders.
• Liaise with the Public Relations Manager creating opportunities for coverage of key priorities and help the Policy & Research Manager coordinate responses.
• Attend and minute policy and research meetings, noting actions and preparing short briefings on work carried out
• Continue to keep abreast of up-to-date research methodologies
• Monitor relevant publications and internet content, identifying policy and research opportunities that will strengthen advocacy and lobbying position.

Essential Knowledge & Experience

• Good working knowledge of political processes (UK/EU), a high awareness of the domestic and international political context
• Demonstration of clear decision making skills under pressure and consideration of complex information.
• Capable of rapid mastering of new subjects and the development of ideas.
• First class research and intelligence gathering skills.
• Strong interpersonal skills and ability to work across team and division boundaries and in co-operation and partnership with other organisations and senior stakeholders.
• Strong analytical skills  – ability to understand and interpret complex policy documents and statistical data.
• Good prioritising and self- management skills to work effectively alone as well as part of a team.
• To undertake lobbying activities, including internal and external representation and working-level engagement for policy team
• The interpretation and identification of key legislation, government announcements and trends and using the political process across the four nations to realise organisational objectives.

Essential Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree (BSc, BA or equivalent) in a relevant field or proven professional experience in UK Policy, Public Affairs, and Public policy development
• GCSE English and Maths (grade C or above)