Policy and Public Affairs Manager

Policy and Public Affairs Manager (Northern Ireland) £41,278 pa plus excellent benefits

Home‑based with regular meetings in Belfast, 35 hours per week, full‑time. Fixed‑term, 12 months.

The Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health (RCPCH) is seeking an experienced and influential Policy and Public Affairs Manager to lead our work in Northern Ireland. This is an exciting opportunity to shape policy, influence decision‑makers, and ensure the voices of paediatricians and child health professionals are heard at the highest levels.

• Lead the development of policy positions and public affairs outputs specific to Northern Ireland
• Engage with Ministers, MLAs, government officials, statutory services, and third sector stakeholders to influence policy and practice
• Produce and oversee consultation responses and policy briefings
• Act as a source of expertise on the Northern Ireland political and health landscape
• Support College Officers with high‑level stakeholder engagement through briefings and policy advice
• Draft media content including quotes, press releases and opinion pieces in collaboration with communications colleagues
• Manage the College’s presence at the Northern Ireland Assembly and party conferences
• Line‑manage and develop the Policy and Public Affairs Officer (Northern Ireland)

• A primary degree and/or extensive relevant experience in policy and public affairs or a related field
• Proven experience of developing and delivering a measurable and successful public affairs strategy
• Experience of preparing high‑quality briefings for political stakeholders and senior leaders
• Strong understanding of the political and health policy landscape in Northern Ireland
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to present complex information clearly and persuasively
• Demonstrable stakeholder management skills, including engagement at senior level
• Strong analytical, problem‑solving and project management skills
• Ability to work independently while contributing effectively within a wider UK team

The RCPCH has more than 25,000 members and fellows and employs around 200 staff, most of whom work in our London office in Holborn. We have a Devolved Nations team operating from Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales. Our College values include:
Include, Influence, Innovate and Inspire
, which guide us to bring out the best in each other and strive forward together to make the College a positive and dynamic place to work.

The RCPCH champions Equality, Diversity and Inclusion. Our workplace is inclusive, offering a supportive environment where staff can thrive. The College is keen to accept applications from people with protected characteristics and aims to represent all diverse communities we serve.

The RCPCH is committed to safeguarding the children, young people and adults it has contact with. All offers of employment will be subject to satisfactory references and appropriate screening checks, which can include criminal records.

To apply please click in the apply button below. Closing date: 04 March 2026. We reserve the right to close this vacancy early if we receive sufficient applications for the role.