Job Description
We currently have a vacancy for a Policy Officer at the Urban Transport Group.
The Urban Transport Group is the UK's network of transport authorities (including West Yorkshire Combined Authority, UTG's host organisation). We are one of the most influential organisations working in transport. We support our members to create transport networks which are sustainably funded and affordable; deliver social value; are green and resilient; and are trusted. We help to shape transport policy at a national level to ensure our members have the powers and funding they need to deliver better transport for their communities.
As Policy Officer, you will have the unique opportunity to engage directly with - and support - our large and diverse membership of 15 organisations working to improve transport in their regions. You should have experience of working in a policy environment, producing impactful research, briefings and reports. You will work across a broad range of policy areas, but an interest in rail would be desirable.
It is an exciting time to be joining the Urban Transport Group. We have a number of groundbreaking projects that are helping to shape transport policy across the UK. To find out more about the work we do, please visit our website.
It is important that you demonstrate how your breadth of experience, knowledge and skills align with the role when applying. Our host organisation, West Yorkshire Combined Authority, have created comprehensive guidance for candidates, and you are strongly urged to read this before completing your application form. Please visit the Advice for Candidates webpage to find this guidance and further support in completing your application form.
The Role
Reporting into the Senior Policy Manager, your key responsibilities will include:
• Undertaking original research projects and analysis to develop new insights, share best practice and influence stakeholders locally and nationally.
• Developing, expanding and leading on your own areas of policy expertise to contribute to the overall credibility and influence of our work.
• Working collaboratively with UTG members and stakeholders to ensure our work is tailored to their needs and priorities.
• Representing UTG at meetings, events and conferences to promote our work and influence outcomes of relevance to the UTG network.
Please review the Role Profile for more information about the responsibilities.
About You
You will have the following key skills, attributes, education and experience:
• Educated to degree level or equivalent relevant education or experience.
• Willingness and ability to rapidly establish, grow and maintain knowledge of a wide range of transport and related policy areas (such as environment, health, economy, place making, social inclusion).
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills with the ability to confer often complex information clearly and with impact.
• Proven research skills together with curiosity and a desire to learn.
• Ability to think creatively to make the connections between transport and wider public policy.
Our Offer
Alongside a competitive salary, we offer an excellent benefits package including:
• Work your way - From flexible and agile working options, including a generous flexi-time scheme to help you balance your personal life and career.
• Time to recharge - Enjoy 28 days of annual leave (with increases based on length of service), plus all Bank Holidays.
• Free greener travel across West Yorkshire - Cover your commute sustainably with unlimited free bus and rail travel using the MCard (Zones 1-5).
• Secure your future - Benefit from a highly competitive Local Government Pension Scheme.
• Investing in you - Take advantage of fully funded professional development, regular training, and up to 3 paid volunteering days per year.
• Grow with us - Incremental salary progression for most roles and annual cost of living increases. • Family first - We offer enhanced parental and bereavement leave, plus other family-friendly policies to support you when it matters most.
• Your wellbeing, our priority - Access 24/7 free confidential counselling services and the Headspace app for you and up to 5 family or friends.
• Modern workspace in a prime location - Work in bright, contemporary offices just a 2-minute walk from Leeds Train Station, fully equipped with the latest tech. Have a look at our host organisation's Employee Benefits webpage to find out more.
