Policy Manager

Discover yourself in Lewisham where what you do makes a difference to our vibrant and culturally diverse communities! We have a rich history of welcoming people from all over the world and are proud to be recognised as the UKs first Borough of Sanctuary, for our work in championing the rights of refugees and migrants.

Are you seeking an opportunity to drive policy creation and oversee its development? Do you have experience in Public Affairs and working strategically to set direction within a large organisation? This newly created role will manage a small, fast‑paced policy function, advising senior leaders and working across all areas of the Council to deliver an exceptional policy and public affairs service.

• Create and oversee Policy and Public Affairs strategies.
• Create and deliver policies within services; organising consultations/co‑production exercises, gathering evidence and piloting programmes of work.
• Manage a small but high‑performing team at the centre of the organisation.
• Keep up to date with the latest policy ideas and best practice across areas of interest in the public sector, acting as the in‑house expert.
• Work closely with the Corporate Equalities Lead and Disability and Co‑Production Policy Officer to ensure an aligned approach across the Council to Corporate Equalities.
• Provide policy and strategy advice across the full range of the Council's service areas.

• Generous holiday allowance
• Local Government Pension scheme
• Flexible working and family‑friendly policies
• Season ticket and bicycle loans
• A range of staff discounts including local subsidised gym memberships
• Supportive staff networks

Someone with extensive experience of strategy and/or policy development. This doesn't have to be in local government, but you will need a strong understanding of how local government works, and the financial and strategic challenges it faces. You’ll need knowledge of how to create and implement a public‑affairs strategy, with an understanding of how local government can influence national and regional bodies.

You will have experience managing a high‑performing team, developing colleagues and getting the best out of them.

The job is primarily based in Laurence House, Catford, London, SE6 4RU
. We operate a hybrid approach where you will be required to work in the office a minimum of two days a week. Further and specific days may be required depending on work commitments.

The recruitment process is anonymous and we don’t accept CVs. Applicant handbook – please read the guidance in this handbook when applying. It is essential that you complete the application fully and that your supporting statement covers how you meet each of the person specification criteria listed. For an informal discussion about this job, please contact Alex Glanz (Head of Strategy, Policy and Chief Executive's Office): .

Please to view the Job Description and Person Specification.

£60,633 – £62,742 per annum (PO7)

Lewisham Council is a Disability Confident employer. We welcome and encourage job applications of all abilities. If you require any reasonable adjustments in the application or interview, please contact the lead contact on this advert. We will make reasonable adjustments to make sure our disabled applicants and those with health conditions are supported throughout our recruitment process. We support the access to work scheme;

further details are available at . The Council has a dedicated employment support service, Lewisham Works, which offers Lewisham residents guidance in relation to applying for jobs.

The Council reserves the right to close adverts early if there is a large response.