Policy Director
London (Hybrid) | Salary from £115k | Permanent
Are you ready to lead policy that makes a real difference? We’re looking for a Policy Director who can bring energy, vision and practical know-how to one of the most exciting roles in UK health and research policy.
Why this role matters
The Academy of Medical Sciences is the UK’s independent voice for biomedical and health research. We’re at a turning point: prevention is moving centre stage, innovation is reshaping the NHS, and global standards for AI in healthcare are being written right now. This role puts you at the heart of those conversations.
What you’ll do
* Lead bold, evidence-informed initiatives that shape decisions across government and health systems.
* Champion innovation, from AI and data-driven tools to new care pathways, and make sure breakthroughs deliver real benefits for patients.
* Build trusted relationships with Ministers, senior officials, industry leaders and global partners.
* Inspire and empower a talented policy team, and play a key role in our senior leadership team.
Requirements
A strategic thinker and connector with senior-level experience in health, biomedical research or science policy. Someone who can turn complex evidence into clear, actionable policy and who thrives on collaboration. You’ll have a track record of influencing government and working across sectors – and an appetite for impact that matches our ambition.
This is a high-profile leadership role with the chance to shape the future of health and research policy at a pivotal moment. You’ll join a collaborative, high-performing organisation driven by curiosity and a passion for making change happen.
Benefits
* Generous pension scheme with flexible contributions – we contribute between 8% and 13% of your gross salary (with employee contributions of 3%–8%)
* Life assurance at 3 times your annual salary
* Hybrid and agile working to suit your needs
* 26 days' annual leave, plus Christmas closure days and bank holidays
* Family-friendly policies, including enhanced maternity and paternity leave (subject to a qualifying period) and coaching support for parents returning to work
* Wellbeing and development
* Complimentary subscriptions to Headspace and ClassPass to support your physical and mental wellbeing
* Support through tailored learning and development
* A range of enhanced benefits becomes available once you've completed your probation period, including an interest-free season ticket travel loan
If you'd like to discuss the role further or have any questions before applying, please contact us at peopleandculture@acmedsci.ac.uk
For more information and to apply, please visit our careers portal.
Closing date: 9.00 am on Monday, 1 December 2025.
First interviews: w/c 8 December 2025.
Second interviews: 15 December 2025.
We’re committed to building a team that reflects the diversity of the society we serve and actively encourage applications from candidates of all backgrounds and identities.