Education Policy & Research Lead

AQA Education; Manchester, Greater London; Hybrid; GBP 44,000 - 50,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Hybrid working

Bupa Health Insurance

Health Care Cash Plan

Life Assurance

Electric Vehicle Leasing

Job summary

AQA Education is seeking a Policy and Research Manager to shape education policy through evidence, insight and influence. You’ll develop policy positions, monitor developments and engage policymakers, regulators and sector leaders.

Hybrid working with minimum two days in the office, Manchester or London. The role focuses on translating research into practical policy recommendations and ensuring evidence sits at decision-making heart.

Qualifications

• Experience in policy or a related field with stakeholder engagement exposure.
• Track record of building relationships with government, civil service or employers.
• Ability to translate policy thinking into practical outcomes.
• Ability to tailor messaging to different audiences.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to manage multiple work streams independently.
• Understanding of the UK political environment and policymaking processes.
• Analytical, able to synthesise information from multiple sources and identify key issues.
• Knowledge of evidence-based policy development and reform processes.

Responsibilities

• Developing and maintaining AQA's policy positions, ensuring they remain evidence-based and responsive to policy changes.
• Leading the production of policy papers, consultation responses, briefings and thought leadership content.
• Monitoring political, regulatory and educational developments, identifying risks, opportunities and implications for AQA.
• Building and maintaining relationships with policymakers, regulators, education organisations, think tanks and other key stakeholders.
• Commissioning and managing research projects, including surveys, polling and data analysis, to inform policy recommendations.
• Translating complex research, evidence and policy developments into clear, actionable insight for diverse audiences.
• Representing AQA at sector events, policy forums, roundtables and stakeholder meetings.

Skills

Policy experience

Stakeholder engagement

Analytical thinking

Communication skills

Project management

Job description

AQA Education is seeking a Policy and Research Manager to shape education policy through evidence, insight and influence. You’ll develop policy positions, monitor developments and engage policymakers, regulators and sector leaders.

Hybrid working with minimum two days in the office, Manchester or London. The role focuses on translating research into practical policy recommendations and ensuring evidence sits at decision-making heart.