Director of Policy, Partnerships and International Relations

Salary for this Role:

competitive, plus benefits, subject to skills and experience

Job Title:

Reports to:

Closing Date:

Job Description:

Director of Policy, Partnerships and International Relations

Hybrid working: This role follows a hybrid pattern, with three/ four days in the office and one day working from home each week.

About us…
The Francis Crick Institute is Europe’s largest biomedical research institute under one roof. Our world-class scientists and staff collaborate on vital research to help prevent, diagnose and treat illnesses such as cancer, heart disease, infectious diseases and neurodegenerative conditions.

The Crick is a place for collaboration, innovation and exploration across many disciplines: a space where the brightest minds pursue bold ideas and generate discoveries that deliver real human and societal benefit.

About the role…
We are seeking a Director of Policy, Partnerships and International Relations to provide senior leadership of the Crick’s external, governmental and international engagement.

Reporting directly to the CEO, this pivotal role is responsible for shaping and sustaining the Institute’s most strategically significant relationships across the UK, Europe and internationally. You will operate at the highest levels with governments, policy-makers, intergovernmental bodies, research institutions and strategic partners across science, innovation and public policy.

As the Crick’s senior adviser on external affairs, policy and international relations, you will ensure the CEO and Executive team are well briefed on political, policy and diplomatic contexts, risks and opportunities. You will lead the development and delivery of the Crick’s external, governmental and international relations strategy, building and coordinating relationships that directly support the Institute’s strategic objectives.

This role is distinct from communications teams, but will work in close partnership with the Director of Communications and other senior colleagues, providing the policy, political and stakeholder insight that shapes how and where the Crick engages externally.

This is a rare opportunity for a politically astute, internationally experienced leader with a strong track record across science, policy and diplomacy, able to represent the Crick in complex, high profile environments.

About you…
You will be a senior external or international relations professional with strong political judgement and credibility, comfortable operating at the intersection of science, policy and diplomacy. You will bring the confidence to advise institutional leadership and represent the Crick in complex, high-stakes environments.

You will bring…
• Significant senior leadership experience in policy, international relations, government affairs, external relations or strategic partnerships*

• Experience within scientific research organisations, academia, major charities, government or intergovernmental bodies*
• Proven experience engaging at the highest levels with governments, policy-makers, intergovernmental organisations or international institutions*
• Strong understanding of science policy, research ecosystems and the political contexts shaping them*
• Demonstrated ability to translate complex political or regulatory issues into clear strategic advice
• Exceptional judgement, diplomacy and discretion
• Experience leading work in international and multicultural environments
• Strong leadership, influencing and negotiation skills

Ideally you will also have…
• Knowledge of EU institutions and European research, regulatory or policy environments
• Knowledge of additional European languages

*essential criteria

See the full job description here.

About Working at the Crick…

Our values   

Everyone who works at the Crick has a valuable role to play in advancing the Crick’s mission and shaping our culture!  

• We are bold. We make space for creative, dynamic and imaginative ideas and approaches. We’re not afraid to do things differently.  

• We are open. We’re highly collaborative and interactive, and make sure our activities are visible to the outside world.  

• We are collegial. We show respect for one another, work cooperatively and support the wider community.  
   

At the Francis Crick Institute, we believe that diversity and inclusion are essential to driving innovation and scientific discovery. We are committed to creating a workplace where everyone feels valued, respected, and empowered to succeed, regardless of their background, identity, or personal circumstances. We actively encourage applications from individuals of all genders, ethnicities, abilities, and experiences.

We are a Disability Confident: Committed employer and want to ensure that everyone can apply and be part of our recruitment processes and so we'll make reasonable adjustments if you need them - just let us know when you apply. If you need assistance with applying (i.e., would like to apply by phone or post) please email: [email protected]

Find out more about life at the Crick. 

What will you receive?   

At the Francis Crick Institute, we value our team members and are proud to offer an extensive range of benefits to support their well-being and development:  

• Visas: Applicants for this role will be eligible for sponsorship to work in the UK 
• Generous Leave: 28 days of annual leave, plus three additional days over Christmas and bank holidays. 
• Pension Scheme: Defined contribution pension with employer contributions of up to 16%.  
• Health & Well-being:  
• 24/7 GP consultation services. 
• Occupational health services and mental health support programs.  
• Eye care vouchers and discounted healthcare plans.  
• Work-Life Balance:  
• Back-up care for dependents.  
• Childcare support allowance.
• Annual leave purchase options.  
• Crick Networks offering diverse groups’ support, community and inclusive social events. 
• Perks:  
• Discounted gym memberships, bike-to-work scheme, and shopping discounts.  
• Subsidised on-site restaurant and social spaces for team interaction.  

Please note you must meet the essential criteria listed within the Role Profile, to have your application reviewed.   

We reserve the right to withdraw this advert at any given time due to the number of applications received.