This is a rare opportunity for a talented policy leader to make their mark on one of the most high profile, complex and profound challenges of our time. We’re looking for experienced and ambitious Head of Policy with proven ability to lead a team, run substantial programmes of work and produce ground breaking ideas for publication.

We pride ourselves on rooting our campaigning in deep expertise on housing and homelessness and a thorough understanding of what needs to change so that everyone can have a decent place to call home. We also have a reputation for bringing solutions, as well as raising awareness of problems. 

About the Role
Not only is there a growing housing emergency affecting all sorts of people up and down the country, the Grenfell Tower fire was the most horrifying reminder of the consequences when people’s voices aren’t heard. Shelter has a huge responsibility to ensure that they are, and that this leads to change. You’ll play your part by providing expertise on housing and homelessness policy and taking the lead in developing new thinking and solutions on the issues involved. We’ll also look to you to develop, manage and deliver a substantial programme of high quality policy analysis and proposals. Seeing through, from conception to launch, groundbreaking policy publications that have significant impact will be key. And, when it comes to supporting media, campaigning, fundraising and services operations by providing ad hoc policy content and expertise, again we’ll count on you to deliver.

About you
We’re looking for someone with strong political nous, a genuine passion for ending the housing crisis and the intellectual capacity and curiosity to seek out and develop the best ideas for doing this. Used to influencing politicians and decision makers, you have a good understanding of Westminster, Whitehall and local and regional government and the communication and leadership necessary to work with a wider team to turn ideas into reality. Good knowledge of social policy and broader policy context, as well as a specific understanding of housing and homelessness issues are must haves, as is a track record in, and aptitude for, devising fresh, creative and workable policy solutions.