51 Senior Policy Advisor jobs in the United Kingdom

Your new company
Public sector organisation with Bristol office
Your new role
Senior HR Policy Advisor, 6 month interim assignment. Up to £287 per day. Mainly working from home. Bristol office. The role will be focused on reviewing the current policies and making recommendations - this will include a diagnostic approach to update/modernise current policies and advising on best practice, making suggestions for content, tone and language to be user-friendly and effective in reducing risk, etc.
What you'll need to succeed
You will need to be an experienced and skilled HR professional with direct experience in reviewing the current policies and making recommendations - this will include a diagnostic approach to updating/modernising current policies and advising on best practice, making suggestions for content, tone and language to be user-friendly and effective in reducing risk, etc.
What you'll get in return
This opportunity offers a competitive day rate, supportive line Manager and a friendly team.
What you need to do now
If you're interested in this role, click 'apply now' to forward an up-to-date copy of your CV, or call us now.
If this job isn't quite right for you, but you are looking for a new position, please contact us for a confidential discussion about your career.

Hays Specialist Recruitment Limited acts as an employment agency for permanent recruitment and employment business for the supply of temporary workers. By applying for this job you accept the T&C's, Privacy Policy and Disclaimers which can be found at hays.co.uk

Your new company

Public sector organisation with Bristol office

Your new role

Senior HR Policy Advisor, 6 month interim assignment. Up to £287 per day. Mainly working from home. Bristol office. The role will be focused on reviewing the current policies and making recommendations - this will include a diagnostic approach to update/modernise current policies and advising on best practice, making suggestions for content, tone and language to be user-friendly and effective in reducing risk, etc.

What you'll need to succeed

You will need to be an experienced and skilled HR professional with direct experience in reviewing the current policies and making recommendations - this will include a diagnostic approach to updating/modernising current policies and advising on best practice, making suggestions for content, tone and language to be user-friendly and effective in reducing risk, etc.

What you'll get in return

This opportunity offers a competitive day rate, supportive line Manager and a friendly team.

What you need to do now

If you're interested in this role, click 'apply now' to forward an up-to-date copy of your CV, or call us now.

If this job isn't quite right for you, but you are looking for a new position, please contact us for a confidential discussion about your career.

Desired Skills and Experience
HR Policy, HR business partner, HR consultant, HR Manager, HRD

Hays Specialist Recruitment Limited acts as an employment agency for permanent recruitment and employment business for the supply of temporary workers. By applying for this job you accept the T&C's, Privacy Policy and Disclaimers which can be found

• Conduct comprehensive research and analysis on policy issues relevant to the organisation's objectives.
• Develop, draft, and evaluate policy proposals, ensuring they are evidence-based, feasible, and aligned with strategic goals.
• Engage proactively with internal and external stakeholders, including senior leaders, government bodies, and external experts.
• Prepare high-quality briefing papers, reports, and policy submissions for senior management and government.
• Facilitate policy workshops and consultations to gather diverse perspectives and foster collaboration.
• Monitor policy developments and emerging trends, providing timely advice and recommendations.
• Contribute to the development of strategic policy frameworks and long-term planning.
• Manage multiple policy projects simultaneously, ensuring timely delivery of high-quality outcomes.
• Build and maintain strong working relationships across government departments and relevant agencies.
• Represent the organisation at relevant policy forums, committees, and conferences.
• Provide expert advice and guidance to colleagues on policy matters.

• A Master's degree in Public Policy, Politics, Economics, Law, or a related social science discipline.
• Significant experience in policy development, analysis, and evaluation, preferably within the public or non-profit sector.
• Proven ability to conduct rigorous qualitative and quantitative research.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with a demonstrated ability to present complex information clearly and persuasively.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with a capacity for strategic thinking.
• Experience in stakeholder engagement and management.
• Knowledge of legislative processes and government policy-making cycles.
• Ability to work effectively under pressure and manage competing priorities.
• Strong teamwork and interpersonal skills.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite.

• Conduct in-depth research and analysis on national and international energy policies and regulations.
• Evaluate the impact of proposed and existing energy policies on the sector and stakeholders.
• Develop evidence-based policy recommendations and strategic advice.
• Prepare high-quality policy briefs, consultation responses, and position papers.
• Engage with key stakeholders, including government officials, industry representatives, and academic institutions.
• Monitor energy market trends and technological developments relevant to policy formulation.
• Support the organisation's engagement in policy debates and advocacy efforts.
• Analyse data related to energy production, consumption, and emissions.
• Contribute to the organisation's understanding of energy security and sustainability challenges.

• Master's degree in Public Policy, Economics, Environmental Science, Energy Studies, or a related field.
• Minimum of 4 years of experience in energy policy analysis, government, or a related regulatory environment.
• Strong understanding of energy systems, markets, and current policy landscape in the UK and/or EU.
• Proven ability to conduct rigorous policy research and impact assessment.
• Excellent analytical, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills.
• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, with experience in drafting policy documents.
• Demonstrated ability to engage effectively with diverse stakeholders.
• Familiarity with energy modelling or economic analysis tools is advantageous.
• Ability to work effectively in a hybrid working environment.

Your new company
Public sector organisation with Bristol office
Your new role
Senior HR Policy Advisor, 6 month interim assignment. Up to £287 per day. Mainly working from home. Bristol office. The role will be focused on reviewing the current policies and making recommendations - this will include a diagnostic approach to update/modernise current policies and advising on best practice, making suggestions for content, tone and language to be user-friendly and effective in reducing risk, etc.
What you'll need to succeed
You will need to be an experienced and skilled HR professional with direct experience in reviewing the current policies and making recommendations - this will include a diagnostic approach to updating/modernising current policies and advising on best practice, making suggestions for content, tone and language to be user-friendly and effective in reducing risk, etc.
What you'll get in return
This opportunity offers a competitive day rate, supportive line Manager and a friendly team.
What you need to do now
If you're interested in this role, click 'apply now' to forward an up-to-date copy of your CV, or call us now.
If this job isn't quite right for you, but you are looking for a new position, please contact us for a confidential discussion about your career.

Hays Specialist Recruitment Limited acts as an employment agency for permanent recruitment and employment business for the supply of temporary workers. By applying for this job you accept the T&C's, Privacy Policy and Disclaimers which can be found at hays.co.uk

Policy Advisor

(Maternity Cover)

Salary/Benefits: (Band 3: £45,048 up to £4,405 plus an additional ,194 London Weighting allowance per annum (if applicable) with a Civil Service Pension with an average employer contribution of 27% plus hybrid working options.

Why join us?

We are the UK’s independent nuclear regulator, dedicated to keeping the UK’s nuclear industry safe and secure. We invest in our people to build capability and resilience within our great teams, underpinned by our inherent focus on inclusion and excellence. Our values, ‘supportive, open-minded, fair and accountable,’ shape how we work. Use your professional expertise to make a positive impact. Be part of a team committed to being a modern, transparent regulator delivering trusted outcomes and value. And, support our mission to protect society by securing safe nuclear operations. Join us as a Policy Advisor and be at the heart of our work.

What you’ll be doing:

This is a great opportunity to join our Strategy and Corporate Affairs (S&CA) Directorate’s Policy Team in a key role. As a Policy Advisor, you’ll help your team to deliver a range of policy initiatives in support of ONR’s strategic objectives. That calls for the flexibility to manage a wide range of projects. 

Day to day, you will support Senior Policy Advisors, give robust policy advice and support our Freedom of Information and General Enquiry function. It’s a busy role and you’ll be engaging with a variety of contacts, from our senior leaders and internal departments, to government and external organisations. You’ll also be drafting papers, giving briefs at senior levels, and horizon scanning so we’re informed about possible future changes. If you thrive in fast-paced environments, you could be the perfect fit.

What do you need to be great for this role?

We’re looking for an experienced professional who’s worked on policy development, implementation and delivery before. With this background, you’ll know about working with legislation and interpreting new and amended laws. You’ll also have knowledge of parliamentary and government processes including answering parliamentary questions, public consultation and impact assessments. And to top this off, you’ll bring excellent drafting skills.

In addition to your technical talents, you’ll be collaborative, articulate and a natural teamworker. You can build strong relationships, work in diverse teams and share your expertise. Furthermore, you are friendly, conscientious and always ready to learn. 

Pay, Benefits, Culture

Our people’s dedication to public safety and security is central to the delivery of our commitments to the public we serve. We therefore offer competitive salaries, with this role attracting a salary of £45,048 up to £54,405 and a Civil Servic Pension with an average employer contribution of 27%. Plus, flexible and hybrid working options in addition to generous holiday entitlement. 

Our colleagues are from all walks of life with varied personal experiences and career journeys into ONR. We want the best people for our roles. As an inclusive employer we welcome diverse perspectives and value individuals’ contributions, regardless of their age, gender, race, ethnicity, disability, sexual orientation, social background, religion, or belief.

How to apply

To find out more and apply, visit our online recruitment website via the apply button.

Closing date: 29 October 2025.

Interested in other roles with us?

Our work calls for a high level of expertise across a wide range of disciplines. Register for email alerts for upcoming opportunities.

More information on all our current vacancies can also be found through our dedicated vacancies portal.

• Conduct thorough research into current childcare provision, legislative changes, and emerging trends to inform policy development.
• Draft, review, and refine childcare policies and guidance documents, ensuring they are practical, effective, and legally compliant.
• Provide expert advice and recommendations to senior management and relevant stakeholders on childcare-related matters.
• Engage with a range of stakeholders, including government bodies, service providers, parents, and advocacy groups, to gather input and build consensus.
• Analyse the impact of proposed policies on children, families, and childcare providers.
• Develop communication strategies and materials to explain policy initiatives and their implications.
• Monitor the implementation and effectiveness of existing policies, recommending adjustments as necessary.
• Prepare reports, briefings, and presentations for various audiences, including executive leadership and external partners.
• Represent the organization in relevant forums, working groups, and consultations related to childcare policy.
• Stay informed about national and international developments in early childhood education and care policy.

• A degree in Public Policy, Social Sciences, Education, Law, or a related field. A Master's degree is preferred.
• Significant experience in policy analysis, development, and implementation, preferably within the childcare or education sectors.
• In-depth knowledge of UK childcare legislation, frameworks (e.g., EYFS), and funding mechanisms.
• Strong research, analytical, and critical thinking skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to articulate complex ideas clearly and concisely.
• Proven ability to engage effectively with diverse stakeholder groups.
• Proficiency in using data analysis tools and presenting findings.
• Experience in remote collaboration and digital communication tools is essential.
• A commitment to improving outcomes for children and families.
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple projects concurrently in a remote setting.

• Lead the development, implementation, and ongoing review of comprehensive HR policies and procedures, ensuring alignment with UK employment law and organizational values.
• Provide expert advice and interpretation on complex employee relations issues, performance management, disciplinary matters, and grievance procedures.
• Conduct thorough investigations into HR-related complaints and disputes, recommending appropriate resolutions.
• Stay abreast of all changes in employment legislation and proactively update policies and practices accordingly.
• Collaborate with legal counsel and external advisors to ensure policy compliance and mitigate risk.
• Develop and deliver training programs to managers and employees on HR policies and procedures.
• Work closely with HR Business Partners and other HR functions to ensure consistent application of policies across the organization.
• Contribute to the design and implementation of HR strategies related to employee engagement, talent management, and diversity & inclusion.
• Analyze HR data and trends to identify areas for policy improvement and organizational development.
• Manage the employee handbook and ensure its accessibility and clarity.
• Support the HR team in developing consistent and fair approaches to HR practices.

• CIPD Level 7 (Advanced) qualification or equivalent demonstrable experience.
• Minimum of 7 years of experience in a dedicated HR policy, employee relations, or senior HR advisory role.
• In-depth knowledge and practical application of UK employment law, including recent legislative changes.
• Proven experience in developing, implementing, and communicating HR policies and procedures.
• Strong investigative, mediation, and conflict resolution skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to draft clear and concise policy documents and advise stakeholders.
• High level of analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to influence and build relationships with stakeholders at all levels.
• Experience in managing complex employee relations cases.
• Proficiency in HR information systems (HRIS) and Microsoft Office Suite.
• Discretion and a commitment to maintaining confidentiality.