Policy Manager

Are you experienced in UK policy and ready to lead on complex issues? Are you ready to use your policy expertise to drive meaningful change?

The MND Association is looking for a Policy Manager to shape and lead our policy influencing activities across England, Wales and Northern Ireland. In this key role, you will develop and promote policy positions that ensure our voice is heard in public debates and among decision-makers. You’ll work with a wide range of stakeholders to influence change and improve support for people living with and affected by motor neurone disease.

We need a Policy Manager with strong analytical skills, political insight and clear communication abilities, who can work confidently both independently and as part of a collaborative team.

Key Responsibilities:

• Manage and develop policy, research and analysis work to position the MND Association in key debates
• Monitor and analyse public policy to identify barriers and propose evidence-based solutions to support campaigns, briefings and submission
• Communicate the MND Association’s position through high-quality briefings, reports, submissions and speeches
• Develop and maintain relationships with policymakers, government officials, and key sector organisations
• Represent the Association in external policy and consultation forums
• Support the implementation and evaluation of the Association’s Public Affairs and Campaigns strategy
• Keep internal colleagues informed of relevant policy developments
• Circulate policy positions to varied audiences in accessible formats
• Lead and support policy-related meetings, seminars and consultations
• Line-manage Policy Advisers and oversee commissioned projects where required

About You:

• In-depth knowledge of health and/or social policy in the UK
• Strong understanding of UK political systems, including Westminster and the devolved nations
• Proven experience in delivering impactful research and policy analysis
• A successful track record of policy development and influencing change
• Ability to interpret and comment on complex issues clearly and effectively
• Experience of managing staff and external consultants
• Strong planning and organisational skills with the ability to meet deadlines
• Willingness to travel across the UK and attend occasional evening or weekend events

About Us:

Our vision is a world free from MND. Our mission is to improve care and support for people with MND, their families and carers. We fund and promote research that leads to new understanding and treatments and brings us closer to a cure for MND. The Association also campaigns and raises awareness so the needs of people with MND, and everyone who cares for them, are recognised, and addressed by wider society.

What We Offer:

• 28 days holiday, increasing to 33 days after 5 years, plus Bank Holidays.
• Access to UK Healthcare, including dental, eyecare, health screenings, and therapies.
• 24/7 GP access via phone and video.
• Life assurance and confidential counselling helplines.
• Salary sacrifice schemes (Cycle to Work, Buy/Sell Annual Leave).
• Access to Benefit Hub for discounts on everyday shopping.
• Enhanced pension scheme.
• Opportunities for training and personal development.
• Hybrid working.

The full job description is available in the candidate pack.

We are committed to equality, diversity, and inclusivity. We work to remove barriers for everyone affected by MND, employees, volunteers, and stakeholders.

As part of the Disability Confident Scheme, we guarantee interviews for disabled applicants who meet the role's requirements.

Hybrid Working and Flexibility: This role offers hybrid working, with the expectation to attend the office at least 1 day per week. We are open to part-time applications or job shares – please indicate your preferred working arrangement in your application.

How to apply:

Please submit a CV and supporting statement. Your supporting statement should be no longer than one side of A4 and demonstrate how you meet the following areas

• Familiarity with UK political systems, including Government departments, Westminster and the devolved nations.
• Excellent communication, negotiating, reporting influencing and negotiating skills
• Excellent planning and management skills.

Important Information:

• We may close applications early if we receive a high volume, so early submissions are encouraged.
• If you require sponsorship for this role, please clearly indicate this in your application.
• Depending on the role, a DBS check may be required.
• If you need reasonable adjustments during the application or interview process, please contact us for support.
• We are happy to consider alternative application formats for those who find the online form challenging.

The Policy Manager role offers a chance to make a real difference while working in a supportive and flexible environment. If you have the skills, experience and commitment to drive positive policy change, we would be delighted to hear from you.

Join us as a Policy Manager and help shape a better future for people living with and affected by MND.