Head of Policy and Communications

Head of Policy and Communications

• Location England
• £58,212 per annum (pro rata for part time)
• Ref: 114REC
• Part Time - 21 hours per week – we are happy to talk flexible working
• Base: Home based/hybrid, in or commutable to London
• Contract: Maternity Cover
• Disclosure: Basic/Enhanced/DBS is not required for this position as the post holder will not be working with school and community groups in the region.

About the role

Team: Strategy and Engagement/ Policy and Communications

As the Head of Policy and Communications you will lead our policy, communications and influencing work in England, helping to increase support for walking, wheeling and cycling. As a key member of the Policy and Communications leadership team, you will raise the profile of Walk Wheel Cycle Trust, strengthen engagement with supporters and influence decision-makers to create positive change.

Working closely with senior leaders, you will shape political strategy, develop clear and compelling messages, and build strong relationships with policymakers, partners and stakeholders. You will use evidence, insight and collaboration to influence national policy and help deliver our UK-wide goals.

This is an exciting opportunity to drive real change by championing healthier, greener and more accessible journeys for everyone.

What you’ll be doing

• Lead our influencing work with the UK Government and coordinating that with our influencing work with the other three nations, government agencies, mayors and regional policymakers.
• Build trusted relationships with UK Government policymakers and partners who share our goals.
• Provide strategic advice to the charity’s senior leaders on communications and political risks and opportunities.
• Lead our UK-wide and England focused media and communications team, building and protecting the charity’s reputation.
• Working with the Head of Brand and Marketing to plan and implement our supporter engagement campaigns.

This role is ideal for someone who enjoys leading both communications and public affairs for a cause, working with others internally and externally to achieve positive change.

About you

We’re looking for someone who has experience and understanding in the areas listed below. You don’t need to meet every requirement — if you feel you’d be a good fit, we encourage you to apply.

• Extensive experience influencing the UK Government, and the ability to provide strategic advice to senior leaders on political and communications risks and opportunities. This is the most important experience to be successful in this role.
• Experience working in coalition with other external partners to achieve policy and communications goals.
• Ability to build positive profile in the media and protect reputation in a crisis.
• Excellent communication and influencing skills.
• Successful leader of a multi-disciplinary policy and communications team.
• The ability to work in a way that promotes the safety and wellbeing of children, young people and adults at risk.

Living our values

At the Walk Wheel Cycle Trust, we’re a values‑driven organisation. We’re looking for people who are:

Always Learning – curious, open‑minded and committed to continuous improvement.

Championing Equity – inclusive, respectful and focused on ensuring everyone has a voice and fair opportunity to succeed.

Taking Ownership – proactive, responsible and empowered to make things better.

Delivering Together – collaborative, transparent and motivated by shared success.

Through our values we make it possible for more people to walk, wheel and cycle safely, healthily and joyfully.

What we offer

We want you to feel supported, valued, and empowered in your role. That’s why we offer flexible working, a positive team environment, and benefits designed to support your wellbeing, finances, and family life.

Wellbeing support

• 28 days’ leave per annum plus bank holidays for full-time employees
• Option to buy an extra week of annual leave (pro-rata for part-time employees)
• Paid volunteer days to support causes you care about
• Free, confidential support service available 24/7
• Access to cycle-to-work schemes through Green Commute Initiative and Cycle Scheme

Financial benefits

• Up to two extra days of paid leave (pro rata for part‑time colleagues) when travelling sustainably for holidays.
• Group Personal Pension scheme with a 6% or 7% of basic salary contribution being matched by Walk Wheel Cycle Trust
• Bike, computer and season ticket loans
• Discount benefits
• London Weighting Allowance of £4,530 per annum, pro rata for all those living within a London Borough (32 local authority districts plus the City of London).
• Death in Service benefit – 3 x annual Salary

Family friendly policies

• Enhanced maternity and paternity pay
• Flexible Working practices (full time hours are 37.5 per week, Monday - Friday)

Additional information

• Application deadline: 23:59, 13 September 2026
• Interviews will be held via Microsoft Teams during the week of 05 October 2026. To apply, please complete our online application form.
• We actively welcome applications from people of all backgrounds, particularly those underrepresented in our workforce, including people of colour and candidates with disabilities. Adjustments are available throughout the recruitment process.
• Adjustments are available throughout the application process.