The SMF Director role is a high profile, challenging and rewarding opportunity at the heart of Westminster. It requires grounding in research, political philosophy and communications as well as the discipline of leading and managing a small charity.

JOB DESCRIPTION

We require an individual with the ability:

• To identify issues and trends where the SMF can shape policymaking;
• To develop proposals for funding and persuasively present these to potential funders in business and the charity sector;
• To lead the production of high-quality, rigorous research;
• To come up with original policy ideas;
• To convene, chair and speak in high profile events;
• To communicate effectively about the SMF’s work and ideas with senior politicians and business and charity leaders;
• To represent the SMF’s work and outlook in print and online media, on radio and TV;
• To comment authoritatively and dispassionately on Government and Opposition policies;
• To manage a team of around a dozen people;
• To manage the budget effectively; and,
• To support trustees in the exercise of their responsibilities.

PERSON SPECIFICATION

We expect that the Director should have the following skills and qualities:

Research

• Ability to come up with original and interesting ideas for research
• Experience carrying out or supervising the production of analysis and research
• Curiosity about the cutting edge of research in economic and social policy
• Ability to understand - and relate to others - complex ideas from both quantitative and qualitative research
• Ability to establish credibility with academics, researchers and other experts

Communications

• Ability to write concisely and effectively, including when under time pressure
• Confidence to speak on radio and TV about the work of the SMF and wider developments in politics and policy
• Experience in speaking at and chairing public events
• Existing networks – or the ability to establish them quickly – in politics, the media, and the policy fields that the SMF covers

Political outlook

• Ability to express a social market view on leading political and policy issues
• Curiosity about political views other than your own
• Open to a wide range of policy approaches

Download the full job description for further details of salary, contract and person specification: http://www.smf.co.uk/about-us/#opportunities