Policy Manager

Make a Difference with Schools North East

Schools North East is a dynamic, purpose-driven charity that champions the education sector across the North East. Representing a collaborative community of over 1,150 member schools, we are recognised nationally as the Voice advocating for North East schools, the Glue fostering collaboration, and the Bridge connecting education with the wider world. Now approaching our 20th year, we are entering an exciting new phase of development, strengthening our influence, expanding our reach, and enhancing the value we deliver to our members.

As Policy Manager, you will be a senior leader responsible for working with Directors to deliver our strategic policy and public affairs agenda. You will ensure alignment between policy, research, stakeholder engagement, and events, using evidence and insight to influence decision-makers at the highest levels. This is a pivotal, high-profile role requiring a dynamic, politically astute, and highly experienced strategic thinker with a deep understanding of how policy is shaped and implemented.

We are looking for a values-led leader who can anticipate long-term trends and align strategies with the organisation’s vision, taking account of the political, economic, and educational policy landscape. You will make bold yet considered decisions, taking calculated risks where appropriate, and responding promptly and effectively to critical events. You will lead by example, actively promoting SNE’s values and vision both internally and externally, and influencing our strategy, direction, and culture to increase organisational effectiveness.

You will bring a collaborative, resilient, and adaptable approach, fostering a culture of learning and development that helps your team grow and succeed, while sharing your own expertise to support others. With exceptional communication skills, you will engage stakeholders with purpose and conviction, and ensure that policy work is evidence-led, impactful, and aligned with member needs. This is an opportunity to join a respected and ambitious organisation at a key point in its journey – and to play a personal role in shaping its next chapter of success.

Key Responsibilities

Organisational Leadership

• Contribute to the strategic leadership of Schools North East as a senior manager, ensuring policy work supports the organisation’s long-term mission and values.

Person Specification
(A – Application, I – Interview, T – Task)

Essential:

• Significant experience (approx. 5-10 years) in policy, public affairs, or related fields, ideally in complex or mission-led organisations (A, I).
• Demonstrable track record of influencing policy and engaging senior political stakeholders (A, I).
• Strong analytical skills and ability to interpret data and research to inform strategy (A, I, T).
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to write persuasive policy documents and represent the organisation externally (A, I, T).
• Experience managing people and developing high-performing teams (A, I).
• Proven ability to anticipate policy trends and respond strategically (A, I).
• Strong relationship-building skills across diverse stakeholder groups (A, I).
• Ability to manage multiple priorities under pressure and meet deadlines (A, I).

Desirable:

• Knowledge of the education sector and challenges facing schools (A, I).
• Experience in the charity or membership sector (A, I).
• Familiarity with the political landscape in the North East (A, I).