Director of Policy & Research, BELONG – THE COHESION AND INTEGRATION NETWORK
We are looking for a strategic leader to shape national conversations on cohesion and integration. This senior role will lead policy development, research strategy, and national partnerships to influence change and amplify Belong’s voice among policymakers and opinion formers.
Closing Date: Monday 12 January 2026
About Belong
Belong is the UK’s leading not‑for‑profit network focused on social cohesion. Established in 2019, we work across sectors to build a more connected, less divided society by strengthening trust, belonging, and resilience in communities. Our membership includes local authorities, charities, civil society, and business.
Key Responsibilities
* Lead Belong’s policy and research agenda, ensuring alignment with organisational strategy.
* Produce high‑quality policy outputs such as reports, briefings and consultation responses.
* Ensure research is rigorous, inclusive, and informed by lived experience.
* Oversee the design and delivery of research projects and translate findings into actionable policy recommendations.
* Foster collaboration between Programme Delivery and Policy & Research teams.
* Build and maintain relationships with policymakers, parliamentarians, journalists and other stakeholders.
* Represent Belong at high‑level meetings and media, developing strategic messaging and narratives.
* Support campaigns and public engagement initiatives in partnership with the communications team.
* Contribute to strategic planning and senior leadership decision‑making, line‑manage policy and research staff, and collaborate with the Director of Programmes for alignment.
* Support income generation through proposals and funder engagement, upholding Belong’s values of equity, diversity and inclusion.
About You
* Proven experience in policy development and research leadership.
* Experience working in or with government, think tanks or advocacy organisations.
* Strong understanding of social policy and influencing processes.
* Knowledge of cohesion, integration and community relations.
* Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
* Experience in media engagement and public speaking.
* Ability to translate complex research into accessible policy messages.
* Familiarity with participatory and applied research methods.
* Strong strategic thinking and planning abilities.
* Relevant qualification in public policy, social research or a related field.
* Experience managing teams and budgets, and in fundraising and proposal development.
Personal Qualities
* Passionate about improving cohesion and integration in the UK.
* Strategic and visionary thinker.
* Collaborative and inclusive leader.
* Politically astute and intellectually curious.
* Practical, focused and reliable.
* Committed to personal and professional development.
Benefits
* 30 days’ annual leave per year.
* 3% pension contribution.
* Hybrid working (typical pattern of 3 days in the office).
* Enhanced sick pay.
* Enhanced maternity and paternity pay.
Job Details
Job Title: Director of Policy & Research
Working Hours: Full‑time
Location: UK‑wide, regular travel across England and Wales
Contract Type: Permanent
Salary: £65,000–£70,000
Application Process
To apply, submit a CV and answers (max 400 words each) to:
* Why are you interested in applying and how do your values align with our mission?
* What key achievements make you a strong candidate?
* How does your leadership style support others and create empowerment?
Email: recruitment@belongnetwork.co.uk
Deadline: 23:59, Monday 12 January 2026
Interview stages: first round – 29 & 30 January (online); second round – 12 February (in‑person).
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