Location
City of Westminster

Hours
Full Time

Salary
£50,917 per annum

About the Role
The Supreme Court of the United Kingdom (UKSC) is the highest court of appeal in the UK, hearing cases of the greatest significance and shaping the development of UK law. The Senior Policy Officer will provide expert policy advice and support to inform key decision-making across the Court, working directly with the Chief Executive. This role involves research, briefings, analysis, horizon scanning, and policy work on a wide range of issues, including responding to government reviews and consultations, implementing the judicial diversity and inclusion strategy, and delivering the stakeholder engagement plan. The post-holder will play a significant leadership role in policy development.

This position also leads on the Court’s international work, implementing the international strategy, planning bilateral meetings with national courts, preparing for meetings and events with international visitors, providing briefings, and taking minutes. Approximately half of the working week will be dedicated to this international engagement, working closely with the Events and Communications Manager.

The successful candidate will have a sound understanding of the Supreme Court’s role within the UK constitution and a strong interest in the rule of law in a democratic society. Excellent communication and policy skills are essential, along with the ability to work persuasively with senior figures. While there are currently no line management or budgetary responsibilities, the post-holder should be flexible and prepared for potential future changes.

Experience
- Proven ability to provide high-quality briefings, analysis, and policy advice, demonstrating good judgement and awareness of the wider external environment.
- Experience attending and supporting meetings with senior stakeholders, including minute-taking and following up on action points.
- Experience leading international work or stakeholder engagement, including planning and coordinating meetings and events.
- Experience supporting diversity and inclusion initiatives, including event delivery and evaluation.
- Ability to work collaboratively across teams and build strong relationships with internal and external stakeholders.
- Experience working with central government departments and producing objective, balanced work unaffected by personal views.
- Ability to work independently, manage competing priorities, and operate flexibly in a fast-paced environment.

About You
- A sound understanding of the Supreme Court’s work and its constitutional position, or the ability to quickly become proficient.
- Strong interest in the rule of law and democratic society.
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills, able to tailor messages for diverse audiences with clarity and authority.
- Strong research and analytical skills, able to provide evidenced options to inform decision-making.
- Excellent interpersonal skills with the ability to build and maintain effective working relationships.
- Good IT skills, particularly in MS Word, Teams, Excel, and Copilot, with the ability to quickly learn new IT solutions.
- Strong planning and organisational skills.
- Adaptable and willing to review priorities with senior managers to meet the Court’s needs.

Qualifications
Educated to degree level or equivalent experience, demonstrating the ability to analyse complex information, exercise sound judgement, and communicate effectively.