Head of Policy

Staffline Group PLC; Belfast; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A prominent business advocacy organization in Northern Ireland is seeking a Head of Policy to lead research and policy development efforts. This high-profile role involves managing a team and engaging with government and stakeholders to shape public policy impacting small businesses. The ideal candidate will have significant experience in policy work, proven leadership skills, and strong analytical capabilities. A degree in a relevant field is required, preferably with postgraduate qualifications. Become a key player in impacting small business success.

Qualifications

• Proven experience leading and managing a research or policy programme.
• Strong understanding of political processes at Stormont, Westminster.
• Excellent analytical and communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead and deliver a strategic annual research programme.
• Provide evidence to NI Assembly Committees and Ministers.
• Manage and mentor the Senior Policy Advisor and Policy Advisors.

Skills

Policy development

Research management

Stakeholder engagement

Analytical skills

Communication skills

People management

Education

Degree in a relevant discipline

Postgraduate qualification (Master's or PhD)

Job description

The Federation of Small Businesses (FSB) is the UK's largest grassroots business organisation and leading business campaigner, representing small businesses and the self‑employed across every nation and region of the UK.

FSB Northern Ireland is the largest business membership organisation in Northern Ireland, representing around 6,000 business owners. We work to ensure that the voice of small businesses is heard clearly and effectively at Stormont, Westminster and local government level, underpinned by rigorous, evidence‑based policy research and impactful advocacy.

Recent FSB policy work has delivered tangible results for small businesses, including major interventions on the Windsor Framework, late payment reform, tax thresholds, National Insurance contributions and access to finance.

The Role

FSB Northern Ireland is now seeking to appoint a Head of Policy, a senior leadership will lead the organisation's research, policy development and policy influence agenda.

Reporting to the Head of FSB Northern Ireland, the Head of Policy will be the principal staff lead for policy, research and evidence‑based campaigning. The role involves close engagement with elected representatives, civil servants, policymakers, think tanks, media and stakeholders across Northern Ireland and the wider UK.

This is a pivotal and high‑profile role, offering the opportunity to shape public policy that has a direct impact on the day‑to‑day operation and future success of small businesses.

Key Responsibilities

Research & Policy Development

• Lead and deliver a strategic annual research programme for FSB Northern Ireland
• Design, commission and oversee bespoke surveys and research projects
• Manage relationships with external research partners and institutions
• Ensure NI perspectives are reflected in UK‑wide FSB research and consultations
• Respond to consultations from the NI Assembly, NI Executive and other bodies

External Affairs & Advocacy

• Provide evidence to NI Assembly Committees, Ministers and officials
• Represent FSB Northern Ireland in Westminster and other forums as required
• Build and maintain senior relationships across government, civil service, think tanks and representative bodies
• Monitor political, economic and social developments and assess their impact on small businesses
• Act as a spokesperson for FSB Northern Ireland in broadcast and print media when required

Leadership & Management

• Lead, manage and mentor the Senior Policy Advisor and Policy Advisors
• Support continuous professional development within the policy team
• Deputise for the Head of FSB Northern Ireland when appropriate

Communication & Reporting

• Draft policy briefings, consultation responses, reports and manifestos
• Produce content for internal and external publications
• Contribute to business planning, reporting and organisational intelligence

Person Specification

• Degree (or equivalent) in a relevant discipline
• Proven experience leading and managing a research or policy programme in a business‑facing, public affairs or policy environment
• Demonstrable policy experience gained in at least one of the following:
• Civil Service or related public body
• Think tank or research institution
• Public affairs or policy role within a representative, membership or third‑sector organisation
• Strong understanding of political processes at Stormont, Westminster and local government level
• Knowledge of regional economic development policy and practice
• Proven people management and mentoring experience
• Excellent analytical and research skills, including survey design and data analysis
• Ability to translate complex research into clear, persuasive policy positions
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Willingness to work flexibly, including occasional evenings, weekends and travel
• Postgraduate qualification (Master's or PhD) in a relevant subject
• Experience of small business or SME policy
• Experience within a membership organisation
• Experience of political campaigning
• Media handling and broadcast interview experience
• Knowledge of EU institutions and policy processes