Join to apply for the Head of Policy and Research role at Power to Change

Overview

Power to Change is seeking a Head of Policy and Research to manage a small team and drive the development and delivery of its policy and research strategy. The successful candidate will lead a robust research programme to maintain and enhance the evidence base, working closely with the Practice and Innovation Team to ensure integration with community business initiatives. This role involves developing compelling policy ideas that influence and elevate the impact and recognition of community business, while collaborating across internal and external stakeholders to build policies grounded in diverse experience and emerging social, political, and economic trends.

Responsibilities

• As the public face of the policy function, the Head of Policy and Research will direct stakeholder engagement and public affairs efforts, including setting the agenda for policy-focused events and fostering relationships with policymakers, academics, and sector partners.
• Represent the organisation externally at meetings, conferences, and in the media, while managing the Policy and Research team and overseeing budgets, governance, and partnerships.
• Their strategic vision will help shape perceptions and behaviours to create long-term change in the community business sector.

Experience required

• Strong knowledge of policymaking, political trends, policy debates (especially in local economies and public service reform), political parties, and the community business sector.
• Skilled in research design, methodology, and conducting research to influence public debate.
• Proven experience in team leadership and line management.
• Effective communicator with the ability to synthesise complex information and influence through written and verbal communication.
• Experienced in partnership-building, coalition development, and stakeholder engagement.
• Skilled facilitator able to convene diverse groups, build consensus, and align discussions with strategic goals.
• Adaptable and strategic thinker with strong horizon scanning and cross-organisational collaboration abilities.
• The starting salary for this role will be £60,000 (£63,500 where the role holder resides within the M25).
• Hybrid working/Flexible working available
• Office based in London (SE1 6FE)
• Pension with 5% company contribution and 4% employee contribution.
• 25 days holiday plus 8 statutory holidays (pro-rata for part time roles).
• Office closed between Christmas and New Year, and birthday leave.
• Flexible hours and ways of working.
• Wellbeing activity allowance, up to £250 a year.
• Health Cash Plan, covering out of pocket NHS costs and an Employee Assistance Helpline.
• Life insurance through Canada Life, covering 2x annual salary.
• Generous maternity, adoption, paternity and shared parental leave and pay.

How to apply

A full candidate pack can be found here. To apply, please submit the form on our website below and include a copy of your CV.

Seniority level

• Mid-Senior level

Employment type

• Full-time

Job function

• Research

Industries

• Non-profit Organization Management and Think Tanks