Policy and Engagement Officer

Insights North East (INE) is a collaborative hub for place-based policy insights, based at Newcastle University. We work with policymakers, practitioners, academics and communities to turn evidence into action, while building the systems, relationships and networks that make evidence-informed decision-making sustainable and embedded across the region.

This is an exciting opportunity to join a team of boundary-spanners, connecting research, policy and practice to support better decision-making across the North East. You will work alongside experienced public policy professionals who understand the realities of policymaking, as well as academic researchers with expertise in evidence synthesis and knowledge mobilisation. Together, we bring rigorous analysis, practical insight and collaborative working to some of the region's most complex challenges, helping to shape policy and improve outcomes and create meaningful change for the region.

INE is based within the Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences. The Faculty is currently developing an exciting approach to public policy engagement across Newcastle University. This role provides an opportunity to be part of both INE and Faculty developments in this important work.

Secondments from public authorities, VCSE and other non-academic settings of up to 12 months will be considered.

The Role

This role is ideal for someone with experience working in a public policy environment who understands how decisions are made and wants to strengthen evidence-informed policymaking across the North East. We're looking for someone who understands policymaking from the inside and can help turn evidence into action. You will work with policymakers, practitioners, academics and communities to identify emerging challenges, develop actionable insights and support evidence-informed decision-making across the region. You will lead INE's popular events and engagement programme to continue building our reach and connection across the region and beyond.

This is a role for someone who thrives on collaboration, enjoys complexity, and is motivated by the potential of evidence to drive long-term, systemic change.

Key Responsibilities

- Organise and deliver workshops, events, learning activities and networking opportunities that connect research, policy and practice.
- Build and manage relationships with policymakers, decision-makers, researchers and partners, helping to strengthen INE's networks and knowledge mobilisation activities.
- Deliver INE's communications and engagement activity, including management of digital channels, quarterly newsletters and promotion of events and outputs.
- Monitor regional and national policy developments, identifying opportunities, emerging priorities and implications for INE's work.
- Coordinate and support projects and activities across the INE workplan, ensuring delivery against agreed objectives, budgets and timescales.
- Produce and support the dissemination of policy briefings, reports, blogs, presentations and other evidence-informed outputs.
- Contribute to the development and continuous improvement of INE's services and public policy engagement more broadly, supporting networks and knowledge mobilisation approach.

Benefits

Newcastle University offers a generous holiday package with the opportunity to buy more, great pension schemes, and a number of health and wellbeing initiatives.