SFHA Policy Lead (12-Month Secondment)

Scottish Federation of Housing Associations; Glasgow; Hybrid; GBP 43,530 - 53,203; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

29 Days Annual Leave & 10 Public Holidays

Opportunity to influence policy

Job summary

A housing association is seeking a motivated Policy Lead to tackle pressing housing issues in Scotland. You will influence policy and engage with government bodies while supporting housing associations. The role requires strong analytical skills, project management experience, and excellent communication abilities. This position offers a chance to shape housing policy at a crucial time and includes hybrid working options. Apply by sending CV and statement to the provided email.

Qualifications

• Experience in a housing-related role, focusing on development and building safety.
• Knowledge of housing development and building safety issues.

Responsibilities

• Lead policy and member engagement work related to development and building safety.
• Influence government and regulators to create a positive operating environment.
• Deliver high-quality briefings and consultation responses.

Skills

Understanding of Scotland’s political and policy landscape

Analytical skills

Relationship-building

Written and verbal communication skills

Project management skills

Education

Relevant degree or equivalent professional experience

Job description

Overview

Scottish Federation of Housing Associations

Closing date for applications: Friday 31st October 2025, 17:00

Full salary & employment details: Salary: £48,367; Responsible to: Policy Manager; Type of Position: 12 month Secondment – Glasgow/Hybrid Working; Annual Leave: 29 Days & 10 Public Holidays (pro rata)

Role

Join SFHA to help tackle the housing emergency. Our members provide safe, warm, affordable rented homes for over half a million people in Scotland. This is a pivotal moment for housing associations and co-operatives in Scotland. SFHA is seeking a motivated, dynamic and experienced Policy Lead to join our team on a 12-month secondment opportunity.

This role offers the chance to work at the heart of Scotland’s housing policy environment, helping to shape how our members deliver and manage affordable homes, respond to poverty and inequality, and address the climate emergency.

Responsibilities

• Take the lead on policy and member engagement work relating to development, building safety and maintenance, with a particular focus on emerging challenges like cladding and damp and mould.
• Influence government, regulators and key decision makers to create a positive operating environment for our members.
• Work with members to deliver member forums and to understand the impact of policy, ensuring their voices are heard.
• Deliver high-quality briefings, consultation responses, and reports to influence change.
• Commission and manage research to support policy positions.
• Collaborate with colleagues in Communications, Public Affairs and Events to programme events and share knowledge and tell the sector’s story.
• Represent SFHA at events, conferences and in the media.

This is a fast-paced role where agility, strong relationship-building and clear communication are essential. You will play a key role in helping housing associations respond to new legislation, safety requirements, and the urgent issues of the day.

About You / Qualifications

You are likely to be working in a housing-related role, with experience of developing new homes and/or building safety and maintenance requirements.

We are looking for someone who can:

• Understand and navigate Scotland’s political and policy landscape.
• Analyse complex information and translate it into clear, persuasive arguments.
• Build strong relationships with members, government, and partner organisations.
• Demonstrate excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Work flexibly across multiple priorities in a fast-moving environment.

Essential experience/skills include:

• A relevant degree or equivalent professional experience in policy, research, or external affairs.
• Knowledge of housing development and building safety issues.
• Strong project management skills and attention to detail.
• A willingness to travel within Scotland.
• Experience of working in or with housing associations.

Why Join Us

• Shape policy at a crucial moment for Scotland’s housing sector.
• Work on high-profile issues, including the implementation of national commitments to develop homes, Awaab’s Law and building safety reforms.
• Collaborate with passionate colleagues and members making a difference in communities across Scotland.
• Gain exposure to national decision-making processes and grow your policy and influencing skills.

How to Apply

If you’re ready to take on this exciting challenge and help influence the future of affordable housing in Scotland, we’d love to hear from you.

Apply by sending your CV and a supporting statement to Alison [e-mail].

In line with its Equality & Diversity Policy, SFHA values diversity and is committed to equality of opportunity. All applicants will be considered fairly and on merit.

If you have any queries about this role, or if you need any adjustments to support with your application, just let us know by emailing in advance.