Senior Researcher; Policy

Senior Researcher (Policy) – Research and Policy Department – Head Office ()


Salary: £52,352 pa rising to £59,475 pa after successful completion of the probationary period. There are no set hours for this position, and the postholder will be expected to be adaptable and flexible to meet the needs of the job. The postholder will be required to live within 50 miles of Head Office. Overnight stays may be required.

Location:

Head Office, Salford Quays, M50 3XZ
. Please note that this position is fully office based.

The Union of Shop, Distributive and Allied Workers is one of the UK’s largest trade unions.

A vacancy exists for a Senior Researcher (Policy) based at the Union’s Head Office.

What we Offer:

* Defined contribution pension.

* Generous holiday entitlement – 24 days rising to 32 days plus bank and customary holidays (pro-rata to commencing month in holiday year and number of days a week worked).

* Free onsite parking, subject to availability.

* Cycle to Work Scheme (subject to passing probation and length of contract).

* Season Ticket Loan (subject to length of contract).

* Free health assessments (post probation).

The Union does not currently offer sponsorship.

Principal duties are: to provide research and briefings to support the Union’s policy, campaigning and collective bargaining work; develop and communicate the Union’s policy position on a wide range of industrial relations, political and social issues, provide advice and information, and engage with key stakeholders to deliver the Union’s priorities; project manage and co-ordinate the work of Researchers on specific research projects.

The successful applicant will possess: a degree in a relevant area or equivalent recent experience in a research-related role in the Trade Union and Labour Movement; an understanding of trade union research and the practical application of information for collective bargaining and industrial relations; a detailed understanding of the sectors Usdaw organises in and the economic and policy environment in which they operate;

the ability to communicate effectively with a diverse range of people by telephone, in writing and face to face; the ability to display leadership and direction under pressure; the ability to train, coach and mentor staff.

Interviews are expected to take place on Thursday, 14 May 2026.

An application pack can be downloaded from here by clicking on the ‘apply’ button.

The closing date is noon on Tuesday, 24 March 2026.

CVs are not accepted. No agencies please.

Usdaw is an Equal Opportunities Employer