GuildHE is seeking a full-time Policy Support Officer to work with our team of Policy Managers to deliver policy activities for and on behalf of our members. The role principally includes supporting our dedicated research consortium, GuildHE Research, made up of 29 research active smaller and specialist universities and colleges, but will also be involved in the development of wider HE policy. The post holder will conduct data analysis and background research to inform policy positions and responses, devise and develop relevant initiatives to meet members’ policy and practical goals, create effective communications through our networks, website and social media channels, and maintain our delivery of shared research services to members (including our research outputs repository).    

 Job Particulars

Salary: in range £24,000-£26,000 including London Weighting

Working pattern: Full-time (35 hour week), Permanent

Pension: USS

Annual leave: 25 days plus bank holidays

Location: Based in central London but with occasional UK-wide travel

Reports to: Policy Manager (Knowledge Exchange & Industrial Strategy)

Main Duties

Research Consortium – working closely with the Policy Manager (Knowledge Exchange & Industrial Strategy, and covering Research & Innovation from Autumn 2019) to:

• devise, develop, and deliver initiatives including the Virtual Doctoral Training Network, GuildHE Research sandpits / match events, and REF-specific support;
• develop and deliver content for Research Leads meetings, and other relevant GuildHE networks as appropriate;
• maintain and expand capacity in our shared services (e.g. research outputs repository, shared postgraduate online training, research impact tracking tools);
• Provide content and maintain communications via social media and the website.
  

General Policy Duties – working closely with the Policy Managers and our members to:

• support the development of policy positions pertaining to teaching, research and knowledge exchange
• conduct associated research, gather and process data, as well as analyse national data to find trends and support evidence-based policy development
• draft briefings for members, including supporting the production of bi-monthly policy updates
• To represent GuildHE at policy forums, meetings, and events.
• To gather information and feedback from members and respond to relevant policy consultations on behalf of GuildHE.
• To liaise closely on policy matters, where appropriate, with other relevant agencies and bodies such as but not limited to Universities UK, the OfS, UKRI, Research England, the Department for Education and the Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy
• To undertake any other reasonable duties as may be required.

Core Skills

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills
• Confident digital skills to include creating content on social media, WordPress websites, newsletter platforms, and working with databases (preferably including research repositories).
• Highly proficient user of computer packages including MS Office and G Suite
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills
• Strong skills in understanding and presenting qualitative and quantitative data to inform policy and practice

Core Attributes

• Ability to build relationships and respond to members’ requirements
• Able to meet deadlines with strong attention to detail
• Be self-motivated and communicative with colleagues
• Strong team player

Ideal Experience 

• Knowledge and understanding of the higher education policy environment
• Worked in a research environment either as a researcher or supporting others to conduct research
• Experience of developing policy positions and responses
• Experience of synthesising complex data and/or ideas
• Proficient in data analytics software such as SPSS, NVivo and Tableau

About GuildHE

GuildHE is an officially recognised representative body for UK Higher Education. Our members include universities, university colleges, further education colleges and specialist institutions from both the traditional and private (“for profit” and “not for profit”) sectors. Member institutions include some major providers in professional subject areas including art, design and media, music and the performing arts; agriculture and food; the built environment; education; maritime; health and sports.

 GuildHE Research is the research consortium for smaller and specialist universities and colleges in the UK. Our vision is to be a consortium that engages the full diversity of our institutions, people, and places in research and innovation, and which successfully promotes and advocates for the recognition and support of excellent research wherever it is found.

This post is within the small dynamic team based in central London, which provides policy support to GuildHE’s members and promotes their interests to a wide audience. The office team also develops briefings, guidance and opportunities for members and their staff to share good practice.  

GuildHE is committed to promoting equal opportunities and aims to ensure that no prejudice or discrimination is shown towards particular individuals or groups on the grounds of race, religion, gender, disability, age or sexual orientation.

Application Process

To apply please send a CV and covering letter to Rachel Persad, Policy Manager (Research & Innovation) rachel.persad@guildhe.ac.uk by Wednesday 3 July 2019.

Interviews will be held in London on Wednesday 17 July 2019.

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