Your newpany
A public sector organisation with a strongmitment to human rights, trauma-informed practice, and survivor-centred engagement, the organisation is at a pivotal stage in delivering key legislative and policy oues. Based in Belfast, the team operates a hybrid working model, with office-based collaboration currently on Tuesdays and Wednesdays.
Your new role
As Policy and Research Officer, you’ll be central to shaping evidence-based policy and research that informs the organisation’s strategic direction and public advocacy. Reporting to the Head of Policy and Engagement, you’ll lead on developing policy briefings, consultation responses, and research programmes that support the organisation’s statutory duties.
Key responsibilities include:
1. Producing policy papers, briefings, and submissions forernment and statutory bodies
2. Leading the rollout of consultation findings on service provision
3. Designing and managing qualitative and quantitative research projects
4. Identifying data gaps and reviewing international best practice
5. Presenting findings to internal and external stakeholders
6. Supporting legislative and policy responses, including Ministerial briefings
7. Ensuring all work is rights-based, trauma-informed, and survivor-centred
What you'll need to succeed
You’ll bring at least three years’ experience in a policy or research role, ideally within a rights, justice, or accountability context. You’ll be confident managing research projects, writing for diverse audiences, and navigatingplex policy environments.
Essential criteria:
8. University level degree in a relevant area including law, social policy or social science
9. Proven experience leading policy/research projects
10. Strong written and verbalmunication skills
11. Experience producing policy documents and managing data ethically
12. Ability to work at pace and respond to short-term requests
13. Strong organisational and problem-solving skills
Desirable:
14. Postgraduate qualification in a relevant field
15. Experiencemissioning research
16. Familiarity with public procurement processes in Northern Ireland
What you'll get in return
This is a unique opportunity to contribute to meaningful societal change while developing your expertise in policy and research. You’ll join a supportive, purpose-driven team and benefit from:
17. Hybrid working model, 3 days working from home
18. Opportunity to extend beyond initial 12-month contract
19. Based in Belfast City Centre
20. Exposure to high-impact policy work and stakeholder engagement
21. Supportive team environment and strong culture