Policy Officer

Connected Local Government; Oxford; On-site; GBP 80,000 - GBP 100,000; Full time

Job summary

A local government council in Oxfordshire seeks an experienced Intelligence & Research Analyst to lead policy development and drive improvements in safeguarding practices. The role involves managing complex projects, analysing legislation, and forging strong collaboration with external partners. Ideal candidates will present strong analytical skills, a Level 7 qualification, and a background in policy analysis within government settings. This role offers flexible working arrangements, generous holiday benefits, and a commitment to employee wellbeing.

Benefits

30 days holiday plus bank holidays

Employee Assistance Programme

Enhanced family friendly policies

Learning and development opportunities

Qualifications

• Proven ability to deliver results in policy development.
• Experience analysing intelligence and creating impactful policies.
• Confident in managing multiple projects in a fast-paced environment.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement strategic policies for the Safeguarding Adults Board.
• Lead on complex projects and analyse legislation and guidance.
• Build partnerships with external organisations for safeguarding.

Skills

Strong analytical skills

Ability to interpret complex information

Political astuteness

Experience in project management

Education

Level 7 qualification

Job description

About Us

Oxfordshire County Council is a forward-thinking organisation committed to improving the lives of residents and creating strong, safe communities. Our Safeguarding Adults Board plays a vital role in protecting adults at risk and ensuring that safeguarding remains a priority across all partner organisations. We work collaboratively with health, social care, voluntary and community sectors to deliver meaningful change. Our values – always learning, being kind and caring, acting with integrity, taking responsibility and daring to do things differently – underpin everything we do. We also embrace agile working, offering flexibility and support to help you succeed.

About the Role

This is an exciting opportunity to influence policy and drive improvements in safeguarding practice across Oxfordshire. As Intelligence & Research Analyst, you will be part of a small, dedicated team responsible for developing and implementing policies that support the strategic priorities of the Safeguarding Adults Board. Your work will span the entire intelligence cycle – from shaping ideas and designing intelligence-gathering tools, to translating political objectives into practical solutions and finally to ensuring that changes are embedded and deliver real benefits. You will lead on complex projects, analyse legislation and guidance, and provide expert advice to senior leaders. The role also involves building strong partnerships with external organisations, including voluntary groups and the civilian‑military community, to ensure a joined‑up approach to safeguarding. Every day will bring new challenges and opportunities to make a tangible difference.

About you

You will be an experienced policy professional with a proven ability to deliver results. Your background will include analysing intelligence and developing policies that have had a measurable impact, and you will be confident managing multiple projects in a fast‑paced environment. Strong analytical skills are essential, as is the ability to interpret complex information and communicate it clearly to a range of audiences. You will be politically astute, able to navigate sensitive situations and influence stakeholders effectively. A Level 7 qualification is required, and experience in local or national government would be advantageous. Above all, you will share our commitment to safeguarding and improving outcomes for vulnerable adults.

Our Rewards & Benefits

• Culture of flexible working
• Technology to support agile working where role permits
• 30 day’s holiday p.a. plus bank holidays
• Option to ‘buy’ additional holiday
• Employee Assistance Programme including access to health and wellbeing support
• Membership of the Local Government contributory pension scheme, with an employer’s contribution of up to 19.9%
• Enhanced family friendly policies
• Local and national discounts for shopping and travel
• Great learning and development opportunities to support your ongoing development.

Equality, Diversity and Inclusion

At Oxfordshire County Council we are proud of our diverse workforce. Everyone is accepted for who they are, regardless of age, disability, gender identity, marital status, race, faith or belief, sexual orientation, socioeconomic background, or on maternity or family leave. We have a number of staff network groups which provide peersupport, education and safe spaces for all.

Guaranteed Interview Schemes

As a DisabilityConfident employer, we guarantee an interview for disabled applicants who meet the essential criteria for the job. We also guarantee interviews to care leavers who have completed further education and who meet the essential criteria for the job. For those leaving care without any further education, we guarantee an interview for our apprenticeships. We are also committed to helping and supporting those transitioning from HM Armed Forces to civilian life and guarantee an interview for those demonstrating the essential criteria for the role, within three years of leaving the service.

Safeguarding

Oxfordshire County Council are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and adults. We expect all employees, workers and volunteers to share this commitment. We will ensure that all our recruitment and selection practices reflect these commitments.

Flexible Working

We are open to discussions about flexible working, which can include flexi‑time, part time working, jobsharing, nine‑day fortnights and annualised hours, depending on the requirements of the role and the service.

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