Job Description

Job Introduction

We are seeking an well- organised and strategic Senior Policy Officer (University Collaboration) to strengthen partnerships between the West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA) and the nine universities across our region.


This is a unique opportunity to play a central role in delivering the ambitions of the West Midlands Growth Plan, ensuring that universities, local authorities, the WMCA and the West Midlands Growth Company work together to drive prosperity and unlock potential for our residents.

What you will be doing.

As Senior Policy Officer, you will:

Lead and coordinate a framework for regular engagement with universities, local authorities, and regional partners on shared priorities. Advise senior leaders across the WMCA and partner organisations through high-quality policy research, analysis, and insight. Support universities in identifying opportunities for collaboration that align with regional priorities. Strengthen links between the WMCA and universities, ensuring tangible outcomes and impact. Report on the progress and delivery of critical projects, contributing to the region's success story.

What's Essential.

We are looking for someone who can demonstrate:

Experience of building effective, multi-organisation partnerships. Strong background in policy development, research and analysis. Knowledge of universities and their priorities, including research, enterprise and regional impact. Understanding of how universities, government and public bodies interact with regional agendas. Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to influence and engage. A collaborative approach, able to work across organisations to achieve shared goals.

Location.

The location for this role is Summer Lane, Birmingham with at least 2 days a week spent in the office.

How to apply.

Applying for a role with WMCA is straight forward. Follow these steps to get started.

Create your Careers Account.

Register with your name, email address, and a password.

Build your Profile.

Upload your CV to help populate your career and education details.

Write your Supporting Statement.

Make sure to address each of the required essential criteria.

Submit your application.

Do one final check and once complete, click submit.

Anonymised Applications.

Your uploaded CV won't be visible after submission. Our process is anonymised, and only the information in your profile is used for shortlisting. Be thorough in each section. it's your chance to showcase your skills and experience.

Using Artificial Intelligence (AI)

We cannot stop anyone from using AI help write application content. Used right, it can be a great tool. If you choose to use AI, then use it as a helper rather than relying on it wholly to write your application.


Applications that rely too heavily on AI may be rejected during shortlisting. For help on how to write a supporting statement, please visit the FAQs section of our careers site.

Reasonable adjustments.

If you have an accessibility need, disability, or condition that means you might require changes to the application or recruitment process, please get in touch with our Recruitment Team (careers@wmca.org.uk).

Salary and benefits.

We advertise salary ranges, with new appointments typically starting at the lowest salary point. In exceptional cases, the salary point may be adjusted to secure the best candidate. This approach allows for potential year-on-year salary increases, offering progression and appropriate rewards to employees. Requests for salaries above the maximum advertised range will not be considered.


We offer a comprehensive benefits package that includes:

Local Government Pension Scheme (

one of the most generous pension schemes in the UK

).

28 days

paid annual leave (with an option to purchase more)

EV car benefit scheme

Ethical

saving options

and

healthcare plans.

Discounted

gym membership, will writing

and

mortgage advice.

An option to

buy a bicycle

, including e-bikes and adapted pedal cycles, at a discounted rate.

3 days

of paid leave each year to

volunteer

.

Interest free financing

through SmartTech to buy the latest technology

Discounted shopping

with over 2,000 big-name retailers, and more.

For more information, please visit the benefits page on our career site.

Why join WMCA?

WMCA is laser-focused on improving the West Midlands, bringing economic growth, jobs, homes, and better journeys to the region. We target local needs where it matters most, ensuring everyone has a job that pays well and has access to safe and affordable places they can call home.


We put people and place at the heart of everything we do, working hand in hand with our partners to direct funding where it's needed most. What you do, really matters. Your expertise will help make a big difference, improving people's lives, every day.

Creating an inclusive workplace.

WMCA holds diversity accreditations, such as the RACE Code Quality Mark, Armed Forces Covenant (Gold status) and has been recognised as one of the Inclusive Top 50 Employers and The Times Top 50 Employers for Women. We're a Disability Confident Employer with 'Leader' status, committed to interviewing applicants with disabilities who meet all the essential role criteria.


We recognise that certain groups, such as women and people of colour, may be less likely to apply for roles if they feel they do not meet all the requirements. However, we encourage individuals who are passionate about the role and want to make a difference to still apply. We value potential and encourage applicants to highlight their skills, including transferable ones, even if they don't fit the traditional "perfect candidate" mould.


We gladly consider part-time, flexible, and job share arrangements, so please don't let these factors deter you from applying

Right to Work in the UK

Proof of Right to Work in the UK will be required for all applicants in accordance with UK Home Office requirements, before any employment offer can be confirmed.


Non-UK applicants (excluding Ireland) would be required to hold a relevant Visa from the UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI).