VANRATH are delighted to be working a prestigious Social Enterprise to recruit a Director of Policy and Insight. This is a fantastic opportunity for an experienced individual to join an Amazing company.

Employment Type: Full-time, Permanent (Monday to Friday – 35 Hour week and flexible start and finish time)

Office is based in Belfast.

• £55,610 – £57,867
• Hybrid working, 25 days annual leave plus 11 bank holidays, pension, health plan, and more
• A chance to shape a social enterprise with real purpose

About the Role:

Reporting to the CEO, the Director of Policy & Insight is a key member of the Senior Management Team (SMT), working alongside the Director of Corporate Services and the Director of Sector Support. They lead the Policy & Insight team, driving research, convening members to amplify sector voice and informing policy to strengthen the voluntary and community sector in Northern Ireland.

The role will support and represent the voluntary and community sector in Northern Ireland and plays a crucial role in shaping our strategic objectives. The role will ensure the delivery of high-quality policy analysis, the execution of effective communication strategies, the implementation of robust research initiatives, the development of impactful measurement frameworks, and the provision of outstanding membership services.

CORE RESPONSIBILITIES:

Leadership and Strategic Management: Lead and inspire the Policy & Insight team to achieve excellence. Collaborate with the Senior Management Team (SMT) to shape and implement strategic vision. Leading a multi-faceted team of policy, communications, research and impact measurement staff, the postholder will work across all teams and with strategic external partners to develop ambitious policy, public affairs and communication plans that highlight the state of the voluntary and community sector and create a powerful narrative for change.

Policy Development and Research: Oversee the development of policy positions and research initiatives. Provide strategic analysis and insights to inform policy and support the sector.

Evidence Base Creation: Develop and maintain a comprehensive evidence base for the voluntary and community sector. Establish the organisation as a central hub for sector knowledge by building connections with academia and other stakeholders.

Member Engagement: Enhance member engagement through strategic initiatives and effective communication. Develop strategies to increase member participation and satisfaction.

Impact Demonstration: Showcase the impact and value of the sector using data and evidence. Communicate the sector’s contributions to society strategically.

Communication and Public Affairs: Lead the communications function to ensure clear and impactful messaging. Oversee public affairs and press relations to raise this organisations profile and its members’ profile. Build and maintain relationships with key stakeholders, including government bodies and media.

Innovation and Improvement: Foster a culture of continuous improvement and innovation within the Policy & Insight team, implementing best practices. Encourage the adoption of new methods and practices that increase the efficiency and effectiveness of Policy & Insight function. Actively contribute to the development and delivery of income-generation strategy, with a focus on maximising and diversifying revenue streams.

Representation: Represent the organisation at a senior level in cross-service initiatives, projects and committees. Serve as an ambassador at external conferences, networking events, building relationships with key stakeholders to enhance influence and visibility.

Essential Criteria:

Applicants must have:

• A degree (or equivalent) level qualification in a relevant discipline with a strong element of Policy, Public Relations, Research; and a minimum of three years’ relevant work experience in each of the following areas:

a. Working in a policy development role to include leading on consultations on social and economic policy issues.

• Leading, developing and managing a high performing team to deliver quality work to tight
• Collaborating with a wide range of key stakeholders that may include government departments, political representatives and appropriate representatives from the

OR

A minimum of 5 years’ experience in each of a) – c) above.

• Experience of engaging with media directly and with using websites, social media, regional and local press and other tools to encourage debate and communicate policy

• Experience of devising work plans and coordinating campaigns and reporting on outcomes

Desirable Criteria:

1. A knowledge of current policy issues facing the VCS and the influence they have on the sector

2. Experience of leading or working within a team of policy advisors and researchers

For further information on this opportunity, or any other jobs in Belfast or wider Northern Ireland, please apply via the link below or contact Jack Groves via VANRATH in the strictest confidence.

I had an excellent experience working with Vanrath. From my very first phone call to inquire about a listed position, through the interview preparation and the onboarding guidance, every step went far beyond what I expected.

Jack was outstanding in managing my job search for a senior position last April. Thanks to his support, I secured my current role and couldn’t be more grateful. Throughout the process, he provided valuable insight on how to handle the interview with my future employer-particularly recommending the STAR method. His encouragement to use that technique helped me feel confident and well-prepared. The interview itself was challenging, but Jack’s practical tips really made a difference. Although we never met face-to-face and only communicated via phone and email, his communication was always clear, professional, and easy to understand. He was very approachable and consistently quick to respond to messages and calls.

I would strongly recommend Vanrath to anyone seeking new opportunities. In particular, Jack stood out as knowledgeable, supportive, and efficient right from our first interaction. Within just a week of submitting my CV, I had completed an interview and received a job offer. Michael also played a key role, offering steady guidance from beginning to end-from interview coaching to follow-up conversations-ultimately helping me make the right decision about my new position.

I had a fantastic experience working with Suzanne Lowry at VANRATH! She was incredibly helpful and professional throughout the entire process. From the initial interview to onboarding and all the paperwork, she handled everything with great care and efficiency.

Recently received help from Chanel with applications for a few jobs. She went over and above to make sure my applications were at a high standard and all my qualifications/ qualities were well highlighted so that I wasn’t selling myself short.

I recently used VANRATH when making my first move into industry, Ruth was able to present a number of opportunities based on my desired job/role criteria. She provided significant knowledge and insight into each of the businesses and helped me to make the right career move

Skills:
Director Manager Policy Charity Social Public Relations Research

Benefits:
Work From Home Fantastic Benefits Package