The Policy and Public Affairs Officer will be part of the Marketing, Communications and Partnerships team at The Open University in Wales.

They will support The Open University in Wales’ engagement with politicians, policymakers and regulators at a pivotal moment for Welsh higher education, following the 2026 Senedd election and as Medr’s new regulatory system gets embedded.

Reporting into the Senior Manager, Policy and Public Affairs, the role will focus on supporting and delivering political engagement, monitoring and analysing policy developments, and helping ensure the OU is well-briefed, visible and credible.

The role supports the University’s reputation as a credible and trusted partner in the Welsh policy environment

Key responsibilities

• Monitor and analyse policy and political developments relevant to higher education, lifelong learning and skills, from the Welsh Government and other sources, sharing timely intelligence internally.
• Produce clear briefing notes, summaries and background materials for colleagues and senior leaders.
• Support the coordination and drafting of responses to consultations, calls for evidence and policy reviews.
• Assist with engagement with Members of the Senedd, Ministers, advisers, officials and sector stakeholders, including maintaining accurate contact and engagement records.
• Support the planning and delivery of political engagement activity, including meetings, roundtables, visits and events.
• Contribute to the delivery of the University’s public affairs plan, ensuring follow up actions arising from engagement activity are tracked and progressed.
• Work with colleagues across the OU to coordinate messages, gather intelligence and support internal reporting.
• Provide practical support and guidance to colleagues on Welsh political and policy processes.