Job Description
Respond is committed to equal employment and growing a diverse workforce. If you do not tick every box there are likely other valuable attributes and skills that you have, that would make you a great fit for the organisation. We welcome applications from people of all cultures, nationalities, genders and from anyone who has historically faced social exclusion. If you feel this role is for you, then please apply. Role: Senior Policy and Research Officer Location: Hybrid/High Park Drumcondra Dublin Reporting to: Strategy & Policy Lead Terms: Full-time position 39 Hours per week Salary: €36,000 - €45,000 per annum Job Purpose: The Senior Policy and Research Officer role will help shape evidence informed policy, practice and implementation and systems change, improving organisational practice to positively influence outcomes and quality of life for tenants and service users. This role supports policy development and contributes to the undertaking of purposeful research, and supporting the mission and vision of the organisation. It will also assist in the development of some key organisational strategies as a key member of the Strategy and Public Affairs Team. Responsibilities: Policy development Contributing to the production of high quality, evidence informed papers, reports, briefings, presentations, and submissions e.g. Pre Budget Submissions, for both internal and external audiences. Contributing to policy positions by undertaking research and literature reviews and producing reports and consultation responses. Maintaining positive working relationships with key external stakeholders and the NGO sector as appropriate. Developing an understanding and awareness of policy and advocacy issues throughout Responds housing and services activities. Monitoring and assessing the implications of economic and social trends, legislation and policy changes for our tenants, service users and the organisation, with particular emphasis on housing policy, addressing homelessness, supporting communities and other key areas of our work. Research and implementation Supporting the development and implementation of the organisations Research Strategy. Contributing to purposeful research and policy analysis. Supporting the commissioning, management, administration and delivery of research projects and related research activities and production of reports and information. Contributing to research implementation and dissemination plans. Strategy Development and Implementation Supporting the strategic planning process to help ensure the organisation remains aligned to its vision, mission, values and goals. Programmes for Continuous Improvement and Strategic Initiatives Supporting programmes and initiatives that facilitate continuous improvement within Respond e.g. Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG), GBHI. Supporting stakeholders across the organisations to foster a culture of continuous learning and innovation. Supporting the development of approaches to enhance and maximise staff, tenant and services user involvement in policy and strategy development e.g. through participatory and/or engaged research methods and approaches. Public Affairs Contributing to briefing and background materials for the organisation Spokespersons and communications to help affect positive policy change for tenants, service users and wider society. Effectively representing the organisation at meetings, events and in public fora, as required/appropriate. Administrative support and governance Provide administrative support for coordinating organisation meetings and briefings including relevant Research Advisory Groups, CSRA Board sub-committee and Policy and Advocacy briefings and implementation group meetings. General: Adopt an evidence informed approach for continuous learning and development. To positively promote Respond in all activities. Any other duties that are consistent with the role. Education: Bachelors level degree level in a relevant discipline (e.g. social policy/public policy/housing/economics/law) or equivalent Skills & Experience: Two to three years experience in policy and/or research in the areas of housing, homelessness, children or other relevant area. Familiarity with major Irish housing policy, economic policy, research reports and key policy initiatives. Knowledge and understanding of social policy in Ireland. Knowledge and understanding of social policy across Europe. A good understanding of the Irish political system and public policy formation in Ireland, particularly in relation to housing policy, social housing, homelessness, economic policy, childcare. Experience of working in Approved Housing Bodies or other housing bodies. Experience of developing coherent and realistic policy positions, supported by presenting evidence and comparative research. Experience of undertaking quantitative and qualitative research to a high standard utilising IT for data analysis and production of a wide range of reports, presentations and briefings. Experience of delivering cogent and engaging oral presentations and presenting policy positions Proven ability to network and collaborate with diverse stakeholders and build effective partnerships and alliances. Understanding of strategy development and the implementation process. Experience of interpreting new legislation/policy/regulation and developing clear and concise briefings and summaries. Attention to detail and ability to work under pressure. Experience of supporting the commissioning managing and administration of research projects. Ability to analyse complex information from a wide variety of sources. Ability to respond quickly to external policy changes as required. Strong communication, Influencing and collaboration skills. Closing date for applications is Friday, 4th October 2024. Skills: Strategic social policy partnership building