Policy Manager Digital Economy

Job Description

techUK OverviewtechUK is the trade association which brings together people, companies, and organisations to realise the positive outcomes of what digital technology can achieve. With over 800 members (the majority of which are SMEs) across the UK, techUK creates a network for innovation and collaboration across business, government, and stakeholders to provide a better future for people, society, the economy, and the planet. By providing expertise and insight, we support our members, partners, and stakeholders as they prepare the UK for what comes next in a constantly changing world.PurposePolicy Manager responsible for supporting techUKs development of policy relating to the digital economy, innovation and R&D.techUK is looking for a dynamic and committed person to join the techUK Policy Team.techUK works with our members across the UK to identify the policy interventions that can drive the next generation of growth and to shape the way politicians, officials and others think about an economy that is becoming more and more digital.From tech businesses driving innovation and job creation through to how digital tools can boost productivity throughout the economy, the next few years will be critical to the UKs place as a home for tech and this role will be responsible for helping techUK to deliver on this agenda.For the person in the role this will mean looking at how economic policy can support the UK as a home for digital businesses, how to encourage the uptake of productivity boosting digital technologies across the UK and how innovation and R&D policy can ensure the UK remains not just a top tier destination for research in cutting edge technologies but a place where innovators seek to turn their ideas into the next generation of leading tech companies.This is an exciting opportunity to help shape the voice of the UK tech sector, working with some of the most innovative and leading tech companies that play a vital role in the UK economy.We are looking for a self-motivated and energetic individual who is comfortable working under pressure with competing demands in a fast-paced working environment. The role would suit a confident communicator with good research skills and a sharp eye for detail, looking to take their next steps in their career.techUK is looking for a range of candidates from different backgrounds. If your experience does not fully align with the competencies and experience below, but you feel you would succeed in this role please set out in you cover letter why you believe you would be a good fit for the position.Key Responsibilities: Assist the Head of Policy in developing techUKs economic and innovation and R&D policy work programme, including but not limited to: successfully leading, managing and delivering internal and external events; the smooth running of meetings; and managing and implementing stakeholder engagement activities; acting as point of contact for techUK members; Researching policy issues and drafting papers and consultation responses for government, Parliamentary committees and others; Provide secretariat support for techUK internal and external working groups as and when required; Ensuring effective use of web and social media to communicate techUKs positions and points of view; Supporting techUKs public affairs work in Parliament and engagement across Whitehall; Supporting techUKs engagement with other industry bodies and partners such as the CBI and DIGITAL EUROPE; Working with colleagues across techUK to coordinate how economic policy impacts on different areas of techUKs wider work; Support the management and implementation of an effective contact programme, ensuring in house CRM is used effectively; Any other duties as required by the Head of Policy and techUKs senior management.Competencies: Highly motivated individual with a positive, can do attitude who enjoys taking ownership of new areas; A team player who is comfortable and able to work with relevant teams (membership, marketing and business services) across techUK; Strong interest in current affairs and our mission to make the UK good for tech, make tech good for people, society, the economy and the planet; Comfortable working in a high pressure, fast paced environment with competing demands; Excellent written and verbal communication skills with the ability to get to grips with complex technical information and to communicate this effectively to a range of audiences (e.g. writing consultation responses, blogs, newsletters, letters and minute taking); Willingness to learn new areas and "get stuck in"; Highly competent with Microsoft and MS Office Suite, including Excel and other methods of storing data.Person SpecificationEssential Knowledge and Experience: Proven experience engaging with stakeholders, developing workplans and delivering to deadlines; Able to demonstrate a good understanding of economics and economic policy and provide an analysis of economic events, data and reports; A strong understanding and interest in the UK policy and political landscape; Have a solid grasp of the workings of Whitehall and UK Parliamentary process;Desired Knowledge and Experience: Proven track record of coordinating events; Good understanding of the role of trade bodies; A good understanding of economic theory with an academic or professional background in economics or economic policy Experience presenting and speaking in public forums; An understanding of policy making across the UK including how and where key economic decisions are made in the UKs governance structure i.e., between Westminster, Whitehall, Devolved Governments and local authorities.This is a full time role based out of techUKs London offices, however techUK operates a flexible working policy. Currently all staff are working remotely due to the COVID-19 pandemic.This role profile is a guide to the work that is required but does not form part of any contract of employment and may change from time to time to reflect changing circumstances.The salary pays up to £30,000-£40,000 per annum based upon experience.Our culture is one of collaboration, inclusivity and empowerment which is reflected in our core values: Respect: for each other, our work and our stakeholders Courage: when embracing change and transformation Integrity: honesty and genuine through our approach Generosity: in sharing time and knowledge and celebrating great work Pride: in our industry and how we represent itThe successful candidate must have permission to work in the UK prior to commencement of employment. Due to the volume of applications received, if you have not heard back within 3 weeks of applying, please deem your application as unsuccessful on this occasion.To apply for this role, please send your CV along with a short cover letter (max 500 words) outlining your interest in this role along with your salary expectations.