Head of Policy and Public Affairs

MURRAY MCINTOSH & ASSOCIATES LTD; United Kingdom; Remote; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading charity organization is seeking a Head of Policy and Public Affairs to shape the charity's public policy agenda and drive impactful advocacy for families raising disabled children. The successful candidate will lead a team, engage with key stakeholders, and develop evidence-based campaigns to influence government policy. This role offers a home-based working arrangement with travel to York and excellent professional growth opportunities within a supportive environment.

Benefits

Competitive salary and benefits

Home-based working arrangement

Opportunities for professional growth

Qualifications

• Extensive senior-level experience in public affairs, policy, and advocacy.
• Track record of developing and delivering successful influencing strategies.
• Strong knowledge of parliamentary processes across the UK.

Responsibilities

• Set and deliver Family Fund's policy and public affairs agenda.
• Lead and inspire a team of four nation-based managers.
• Build and maintain relationships with parliamentarians and civil servants.
• Develop evidence-based campaigns and policy requests.
• Champion the voice of families for inclusive engagement.

Skills

Public affairs experience

Advocacy and influencing strategies

Stakeholder engagement

Team leadership

Communication skills

Job description

Shape the Future for Families Raising Disabled Children

Murray McIntosh is proud to be partnering with Family Fund, the UK's leading charity supporting families raising disabled or seriously ill children, to appoint their first‑ever Head of Policy and Public Affairs. This is a rare opportunity to join a values‑driven, ambitious organisation at a pivotal moment- helping to shape a new era of influencing and advocacy for families who need it most.

About Family Fund

For over 50 years, Family Fund has provided vital grants, practical support, and a powerful voice for families facing multiple challenges. As the charity embarks on an exciting new chapter, it is investing in its influencing work- ensuring the voices of families are heard at the highest levels of government and public discourse.

The Role

As Head of Policy and Public Affairs, you will lead a dedicated team and play a central role in Family Fund's newly formed External Affairs Directorate. You'll develop and deliver strategies that drive meaningful policy change, working closely with research and communications colleagues to amplify the voices of families across the UK.

You'll be joining a supportive, collaborative, and inclusive organisation, with a strong commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion. Working with regional managers, you'll help shape Family Fund's future direction and make a tangible difference to thousands of families.

Key Responsibilities

• Set and deliver Family Fund's policy and public affairs agenda, with clear success measures.
• Lead and inspire a team of four nation‑based managers and a coordinator, developing actionable plans for each UK nation.
• Build and maintain relationships with parliamentarians, civil servants, and key policy stakeholders.
• Develop evidence‑based campaigns and policy "asks" in four priority areas: financial security, family breaks, play/sport/physical activity, and digital inclusion.
• Champion the voice of families, ensuring all engagement is inclusive and accessible.
• Represent Family Fund at parliamentary events and sector forums.
• Collaborate with colleagues across research and communications to maximise impact.
• Contribute to the strategic development of Family Fund as part of the Senior Leadership Team.

About You

We are seeking an experienced public affairs and policy leader who is passionate about driving positive change. You will bring:

• Extensive senior‑level experience in public affairs, policy, and advocacy.
• A track record of developing and delivering successful influencing strategies.
• Strong knowledge of parliamentary processes across the UK.
• Excellent communication, stakeholder engagement, and team leadership skills.
• A commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion and to Family Fund's mission and values.

Why Join Family Fund?

• Be part of a supportive, ambitious, and inclusive charity making a real difference.
• Shape a new, high‑profile function with strong backing from trustees and executive leadership.
• Home‑based working with a collaborative national team.
• Competitive salary and benefits, plus opportunities for professional growth.

Location:

Home‑based (with monthly travel to York, expenses covered)

Family Fund is a Disability Confident Leader and committed to inclusive recruitment. Interview questions are shared in advance, and adjustments are available throughout the process.