Policy Manager

Policy Manager

SKA Observatory

Cheshire, United Kingdom

At the SKAO we are coordinating a global effort to deliver one of the largest science facilities on the planet. The SKAO telescopes will be next-generation instruments that will help to answer key questions in astrophysics, drive technological innovation and support human capital development.

More than a dozen partner countries and over a thousand scientists and engineers around the world are already on board, making the SKA project an international collaboration like no other, and one of the most ambitious science and engineering endeavours of the 21^st century.

Headquartered in the UK, with telescope sites in Australia and South Africa, the SKAO will be one observatory operating two telescopes, an endeavour spanning three continents. Multinational by design, in early 2021 the SKAO became an intergovernmental organisation, one of only a select handful of science infrastructures to do so worldwide.

Our Global HQ is located near the buzzing city of Manchester at the historic Jodrell Bank Observatory, a UNESCO World Heritage site located in the Cheshire countryside. It is home to a rapidly expanding international team of more than a hundred, working in a highly collaborative and inclusive way, in coordination with SKAO teams in Australia and South Africa as part of a global astronomy and engineering community.

Being part of Team SKA means contributing to something extraordinary: a uniquely exciting project to advance human knowledge that will last for decades. In return, we offer a diverse multicultural working environment, 30 days annual leave plus public holidays, a generous pension scheme, visa and support with relocation (if applicable), regular social events, a family-friendly environment and much more. Come and join us!

This is a unique opportunity to join the SKAO as a Policy Manager. This is a pivotal role supporting the Head of Strategy in ensuring the effective functioning of the SKAO as an intergovernmental organisation and requires someone with a positive, flexible approach who enjoys working in a fast paced, changing environment and who can work across functions and locations to deliver.

The Role

This role is an expert in the operational aspects of SKAO’s international status based on its Convention, overseeing the Observatory’s policy landscape, supporting the development and implementation of the SKAO’s strategy objectives and playing a high profile role coordinating issues resolution with both internal and external stakeholders.

This role requires a highly motivated, dynamic and dedicated professional with exceptional stakeholder engagement skills and strong political acumen. The ideal candidate will be interculturally competent, adept at managing complex workstreams, navigating multi-stakeholder environments, and driving impactful policy initiatives.

This role will be based at the SKAO Global Headquarters at the iconic Jodrell Bank Observatory, Cheshire, UK.

SKAO is committed to providing an inclusive and flexible working environment, meeting the requests of our Colleagues whilst also fulfilling the needs and objectives of the Observatory.

This role requires the post holder to work across different time zones and, in line with SKAO policy, flexible working hours will be supported in agreement with the line manager.

Key Responsibilities, Accountabilities and Duties

• Engage with Member State governments to support the successful implementation and operation of the SKAO Convention, building and maintaining effective working relationships with a diverse range of stakeholders, including government officials;
• Manage the centre of expertise and best practice for matters related to the functioning of the SKAO Privileges and Immunities under the SKAO Convention;
• Manage the SKAO policy environment and supporting processes, ensuring cross functional alignment, driving implementation and fostering continuous improvement through monitoring, evaluation and stakeholder engagement to enhance efficiency, compliance and effectiveness;
• Work with the Head of Strategy to develop, implement, and enhance strategic planning, ensuring alignment with the SKAOs vision, mission and objectives across key initiatives and organisational priorities;
• Carry out research, risk analysis and preparation of briefs, advisory notes, correspondence and presentational material as required;
• Represent the SKAO at relevant events in Member States, non-member states and at intergovernmental organisation meetings;
• Occasionally travel internationally as required (typically 3-4 times per year);
• Undertake any other reasonable duties as directed by the line manager.

Mandatory Knowledge, Skills and Experience

• A degree in a relevant field (e.g. Public Policy, International relations, science or diplomacy) or equivalent experience;
• Experience working in an international environment, for example an international organisation or research infrastructure;
• Professional stakeholder management skills and experience of building and managing relationships, with the ability to engage and influence across a diverse range of international stakeholders such as senior governmental officials;
• Ability to participate in and present at international and governmental fora;
• Experience of policy development, implementation and/or management including effective collaboration with internal and external stakeholders to ensure alignment and compliance;
• Collaborative team player with proven ability to build effective working relationships with a diverse range of people from different cultural backgrounds and disciplines;
• Ability to thrive and work at pace to deliver successful outcomes in a complex, fast-paced, cross functional environment;
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English to be able to communicate complex matters, clearly and succinctly;
• Demonstrating a flexible approach with a strong ability to adapt;
• Demonstrable time management and organisational skills.

Desirable Knowledge, Skills and Experience

• Knowledge and understanding of international treaties in intergovernmental organisations;
• Ability to understand the overall context of complex research infrastructures;
• Knowledge and understanding of organisational governance principles including risk management and compliance;
• Experience of working in a continuous improvement and/or project environment.

Equality Diversity and Inclusion Statement

SKA Observatory recognises that our diversity is a strength. We aim to create a welcoming and inclusive environment where everyone feels they belong, and diverse perspectives and ideas thrive. As such, Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion are at the core of SKA Observatory’s agenda.

Our aim is to recruit and retain the most talented individuals, regardless of gender, race, disability, age, sexual orientation, marital status, religion, nationality or background.

Women have traditionally been under-represented in the fields of science and engineering; SKA Observatory welcomes and encourages female applicants.

Where applicants with a disability need facilities or adjustments to enable them to participate in the recruitment process, these will be provided.

SKA Observatory welcome all candidates, especially those from member countries.

The “How to Apply” information contained within the SKA Observatory recruitment portal provides more detail regarding our application and selection approach.

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