Policy Officer

Job Purpose

The Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Combined Authority is refreshing the Policy Officer role as we strengthen our Policy function.

Sitting within the new Policy, Insight and Performance team and reporting to the Policy Manager this role will make a significant contribution to enabling strong policy development. The role will provide advice in a timely way, support the development and implementation of a range of policies, strategies, projects and initiatives in specified policy areas within an integrated policy and strategy framework.

This role sits within the newly formed Chief Executive’s Office where Mayoral support, Policy, Communications, Public Affairs and Executive Support have come together to drive forward sustainable and lasting change for our communities.

Key Responsibilities

• Support the Head of Policy, Insight and Performance, Policy Manager and Senior Policy Officer in policy formulation, evaluation and project delivery. 
• Support the development, implementation and co-ordination of corporate strategic planning so that priority outcomes are clearly defined. 
• Provide policy research, information, advice and support on issues which support the implementation of the organisation’s priorities.  
• Research and draft clear, well-targeted and influential reports, briefings, speeches, articles, presentation, press information and other publications as required on key issues as required, including on emerging significant issues within the region. 
• Work across the organisation to support the development of strategies in line with Combined Authority priorities and the overarching Corporate Strategy 
• Work closely with Public Affairs Team to lobby and raise the profile of the policy positions of the Combined Authority, the Mayor and wider Cambridgeshire and Peterborough geography. 
• Under the direction of the Head of Policy, Insight and Performance, support them in the supervision and mentoring of interns and/ or apprentices where appropriate. 

QUALIFICATIONS & KNOWLEDGE

Essential

• Educated to degree level or the equivalent level of knowledge gained through significant demonstrable experience in a directly related area of work.
• Understanding of policy research, design and delivery and evidenced based decision making.
• Understanding of the operation of Central Government, Local Government and Devolution.

Desirable

• Strong understanding of at least one policy areas: transport, economic growth, climate change, skills, place making, devolution.
• Understanding of the Cambridgeshire & Peterborough Combined Authority, our remit and the issues currently facing the region.
• Relevant professional qualification or membership
• Project management qualification.

EXPERIENCE

Essential

• Demonstrable experience of effectively working in a policy role including supporting policy and strategy development and implementation.
• Experience of successfully developing detailed policies aligned to overarching corporate strategic priorities, political ambitions and/or long-term strategic thinking.
• Demonstrable experience of understanding and using research methods, data and evidence to test and improve policy solutions.
• Proven track record of interpreting national policy changes and developments into local and organisational context.
• Experience of building and maintaining effective working relationships with a wide range of internal and external colleagues and stakeholders to ensure formulation and delivery of effective policy.
• Proven track record of developing and maintaining appropriate networks and communities of practice for policy development best practice.
• A strong record of providing timely, robust advice to senior colleagues.
• Experience of working with colleagues to develop and implement high level corporate strategies and plans, challenging, influencing and advising on development and delivery as necessary.
• Experience of working in a fast paced environment, overseeing many projects simultaneously.

Desirable

• Demonstrable experience of co-designing policy delivery options in collaboration with users and partners, drawing on service and organisation design principles.
• Politically astute with demonstrable experience of working within a fast-paced political environment and working with Elected Members.

SKILLS

Essential

• Uses a range of models and methods for managing change effectively, and understands their strengths and weaknesses.
• Excellent analytical skills, with the ability to use data to demonstrate the impact of activity
• Excellent written, verbal and presentation skills
• Good strategic planning, project management, budgeting and organisational skills

LEADERSHIP

Essential

• Works collaboratively and productively with peers, team and others
• Operates with integrity at all times
• Adaptable to changing circumstances and demands
• Creative thinker who thinks outside ‘tried and tested’ models or approaches
• Excellent oral and written communicator with the ability to present clear, accurate reports to a wide range of stakeholders
• Good relationship-builder that generates confidence in colleagues and stakeholders
• Embraces and embodies our CIVIL values
• Enthusiasm, can-do attitude, and willingness to take on new challenges

OTHER REQUIREMENTS

Essential

• To deputise for the Policy & Insight Manager as required.
• Must be able to travel around Cambridgeshire & Peterborough.