OverviewMurray McIntosh is delighted to have partnered with the UK''s leading skills charity for engineering and manufacturing in their search for a

Policy Advisor .

Our client works at the intersection of data, policy, and skills development, investing over £2 million annually to tackle barriers to entry and progression in the sector—particularly for underrepresented and disadvantaged groups.

This appointment offers a rare opportunity to support an influential policy and public affairs function within a mission-driven organisation, helping to shape the future of the UK''s industrial skills landscape.

The successful candidate will join a growing policy team at a formative moment, with the opportunity to shape its direction and culture from the ground up. A key focus for the team in the coming months will be the launch of their National Policy Centre, a collaborative space for beneficiaries and stakeholders in the SME market. This high-profile project offers an exciting prospect for new postholders to play a meaningful role in its development and delivery.

The RoleWorking closely with the Policy Manager, England, the Policy Advisor will support policy areas within England—particularly the devolution of English skills policy—while supporting broader advocacy, stakeholder engagement, and research efforts. The postholder will engage across the skills and political landscape to influence the direction of policy affecting the future workforce of engineering and manufacturing.

Key responsibilities

Conduct research and analysis to inform policy positions, with a focus on devolution and English skills policy.

Draft high-quality briefings, policy updates, reports, and consultation responses.

Monitor relevant legislation, government consultations, and parliamentary activity across the four nations.

Support stakeholder engagement, including mapping and relationship development with key figures in government and industry.

Collaborate with SMEs, employer groups, and internal stakeholders to ensure insights reflect sector needs.

Contribute to the delivery of policy projects, events, roundtables, and advocacy campaigns.

Represent the employer at external forums, including APPGs and policy roundtables, as a credible advocate.

Candidate ProfileThis role suits a mid-level policy professional who combines strong political insight with a collaborative approach and a passion for social and economic impact. The ideal candidate will bring:

A degree (or equivalent experience) in public policy, political science, or a related subject.

Proven experience working in UK policy, with a sound understanding of policy development processes.

Strong research and analytical skills, with the ability to absorb and distill complex information quickly.

Excellent written and verbal communication skills, tailored to a range of audiences.

Confidence engaging with internal and external stakeholders, including government and business leaders.

Interest in skills, education, and workforce development, ideally with knowledge of engineering or manufacturing.

A proactive, flexible, and organised working style with strong attention to detail.

Why Join Them?This is an exciting opportunity to help shape the future of workforce and industrial policy in the UK. You will:

Contribute to systemic change in a socially driven organisation.

Influence key areas of government policy and sector development.

Work with a dynamic and forward-thinking team at the heart of UK manufacturing and engineering skills advocacy.

Develop your career in public policy within a supportive and ambitious environment.

Be part of a flexible, employee-centric culture, with a strong commitment to an equitable, diverse and inclusive workplace.

How to applyPlease apply with a copy of your CV and a brief summary demonstrating your motivation and suitability for the role. Full right to work in the UK is required. Sponsorship cannot be offered, and relocation support is not available.

Our client operates on a remote basis, with whole team meetings arranged quarterly. There may be some additional UK-wide travel for events and stakeholder engagement.

EEO StatementEEO Statement

Murray McIntosh is proud to be an equal opportunities employer on behalf of their clients. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, colour, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability or age.

Murray McIntosh is a specialist Policy, Public Affairs, Strategic Communications and Economics recruitment consultancy, recruiting across all levels and sectors. Our team boasts over 20 years of experience in this space, with expertise spanning all manner of industry and subject.

Job details

Seniority level: Mid-Senior level

Employment type: Full-time

Job function: Other

Industries: Advertising Services

London, England, United Kingdom

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