About Us

We are the Campaign for Freedom of Information, a non-profit organisation that works to improve and defend the Freedom of Information (FOI) Act. We advise the public about their rights to information, help people challenge unreasonable refusals to disclose information, encourage good practice and provide FOI training.

Today, the Act is a vital tool for journalists, campaigners, researchers and individuals facing difficulties in their dealings with authority.

We’re currently looking for a Policy Research Officer to join us on a two year contract, working three days a week. This post is funded by the Joseph Rowntree Reform Trust.

The Role

As a Policy Research Officer, you will carry out research into the operation of the FOI Act, as well as new legislation that is likely to affect the public’s information rights.

In this important role you will:

- Analyse new government legislation and proposals that have FOI implications and document their likely impact.
- Review how public authorities are complying with obligations under the FOI Act
- Document the case for improvements to the Act, as well as its operation and enforcement
- Deliver and assist with a range of projects
- Assist with administrative tasks as required

About You

To join us as a Policy Research Officer, you will need:

- Experience of producing reliable, substantiated, action-orientated research directed towards achieving campaigning or public policy objectives in a non-academic context (please note that research for a thesis is unlikely to meet this requirement)
- Experience of working in a campaigning organisation or role
- Familiarity with the FOI Act and the ability to rapidly establish how specific provisions are interpreted by drawing on published decisions of the Information Commissioner and tribunal
- Sound judgment in identifying relevant sources of information, analysing data and assessing its implications
- Strong written communication skills and the ability to convey results concisely and accurately
- The ability to work from home independently and (when the COVID-19 situation permits) attend meetings in central London or, if space permits, work in our office in London
- To be based in the UK and entitled to work in the UK

This vacancy is being advertised by Webrecruit. The services advertised by Webrecruit are those of an Employment Agency.