Senior Policy Officer & Nitrogen Alliance Convenor

Senior Policy Officer & Nitrogen Alliance Convenor

Location: Bristol (Hybrid working – 40% office-based)
Salary: £36,000 to £37,500 per annum FTE
Contract: 30 -35 hours per week, 0.8 FTE - 1 FTE, Permanent

Initial interviews will take place online via Teams

About  our  Organisation  

The Soil Association, formed in 1946, is the only UK charity which works across the spectrum of human health, the environment and animal welfare. That’s because we cannot tackle these issues in isolation.  

We campaign for change, we support farming innovation, we serve healthy food in communities, we support and grow the organic market, and we protect forests. We couldn't do any of this without our supporters, partners, donors and dedicated staff. We make a difference in the world where it’s needed the most.  

About the Opportunity  

The Soil Association Policy Department is recruiting a Senior Policy Officer to support our policy development, advocacy and political influencing related to both farming and food. The role includes acting as the focal point for the Sustainable Nitrogen Alliance which is hosted by the Soil Association on behalf of 12 organisations, which will provide opportunities to develop further knowledge in a very topical policy area and work closely with a wide range of partners and advocate to varied target audiences. We are looking for someone with knowledge of food and farming and who can contribute to the Soil Association's mission to transform the food and farming system.

About You  

You will be able to demonstrate an ability to contribute to policy analysis and advocacy, compile briefings and report, and be able to represent the Soil Association at relevant policy consultations and events. You will have the skills to coordinate and motivate a wide range of partners and have a good knowledge of agroecological farming and environmental issues, and at least a passing knowledge of the wider food system and sustainable diets.  You will need to demonstrate the aptitude to manage policy and/or research projects and the ability to make the case for policy change to policy and political audiences. 

Our Benefits 

We offer a range of financial and lifestyle benefits to all our employees, including:   

• 27 days annual holiday increasing to 30 days with length of service plus bank holidays (pro rata for part time)  

• Pension scheme with ethical investment options and employer contribution increasing with length of service  

• Free membership of the Soil Association and discounts on organic produce  

• Volunteer days to give back to the local community or support green initiatives  

• Family friendly policies and flexible working   

• Cycle to work scheme  

• Sociable and engaging workplace of professionals that share a passion for healthy, sustainable lifestyle and produce  

To Apply  

Click ‘Apply Now’ to submit your CV and cover letter. Your CV should clearly demonstrate how you meet the essential criteria and must not exceed two sides of A4.

Please note we reserve the right to close this vacancy early.  

Please check your junk/spam folder if you do not receive a confirmation email upon submitting your application. All candidates will subsequently receive an email to confirm whether they have made it through to interview stage.  

For any queries, please contact recruitment@soilassociation.org  

We know the value of diversity in nature and want it in our organisation. We recognise that diverse backgrounds and experiences will bring a fresh perspective to our work. If you're not sure about applying, please get in touch with us for a chat.  

Thank you for your interest in supporting our work at the Soil Association.