Policy Officer

Job Description

The London Borough of Harrow is looking for a Policy Officer to join its Corporate Strategy Division within the Resources Directorate. This exciting role offers the opportunity to shape the strategic direction of the Council by providing expert policy advice and support to senior leaders, including the Chief Executive, the Corporate Strategic Board, and elected Members.

The successful candidate will lead on the development and implementation of the Council’s Corporate Plan, manage high-profile cross-council projects, and contribute to the delivery of key outcomes for Harrow’s residents.

Working at the heart of the organisation, the Policy Officer will undertake rigorous research and analysis, engage with internal and external stakeholders, and help drive innovation in policy development. The role also involves supporting the Scrutiny Leadership Group, coordinating strategic partnerships, and ensuring the Council remains responsive to national and regional policy changes. With a strong emphasis on collaboration, governance, and performance management, this post is ideal for someone with excellent communication skills, political awareness, and a passion for public service.

This is a fantastic opportunity to make a meaningful impact in a diverse and ambitious borough, while working in a supportive and values-driven environment committed to shaping the future of Harrow.

Please note that this is a job share, part-time position (0.4 FTE) offered on a two-year fixed-term contract. The appointed candidate will ideally be expected to work every Thursday and Friday each week.

The successful candidate will have:-

• A strong understanding of national, regional and local policy frameworks relevant to local government.

• Experience in conducting both qualitative and quantitative research and analysis to inform strategic decision-making.

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build effective relationships across all levels.

• Confidence in working with senior leaders, elected Members, and external partners in a politically aware environment.

• Proven ability to manage multiple projects and priorities, delivering high-quality outcomes under pressure.

• A collaborative approach to working across teams and directorates to support corporate objectives.

• Sound knowledge of governance, scrutiny processes, and the workings of local government.

For more information, please refer to the Role Profile/ Selection Criteria

About us

Harrow Council is the 12th largest London borough and one of the most culturally diverse local authorities in the UK, making it a great place to live, work and visit with a range of cultures, religions and opinions that come together to produce high achieving schools and a close and friendly community. Located 10 miles from the city centre and just 13 minutes to Euston from Harrow & Wealdstone station there are great transport links via the Metropolitan Line, Watford DC Line and national rail service. It is easily accessible to the M1, M25 and A406.

Other information

Support for candidates visit:Harrow.gov.uk Our behavioural indicators roles below G11 and above G11 Here at Harrow Council, the vision is one of 'Working together to make a difference for Harrow' Please click here to view Harrow Council's benefits

Important Note

To deliver our commitment to equality of opportunity in service provision, all staff are expected to promote equality in the workplace and in the services the Council delivers. All sections of the population will have equal access to jobs at the London Borough of Harrow. No applicant or employee will receive less favourable treatment because of age, disability, gender, reassignment, race, religion or belief, sex, sexual orientation, marriage or civil partnership, pregnancy, or maternity unless a Genuine Occupational Qualification applies. As such, we value diversity and welcome applications from all backgrounds. For further information, please read our equality statement.

As a disability-confident employer, we are committed to making our recruitment practices barrier-free and accessible to everyone. This includes reasonably adjusting the recruitment process for those with disabilities or long-term health conditions. For further information, please contact us at resourcing@harrow.gov.uk

London Borough of Harrow is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people, and vulnerable adults and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. Harrow operates stringent, safer recruitment procedures.

Due to the high number of applications received for some posts, we may close vacancies before the stated closing date if sufficient applications are received. Therefore, please apply as soon as possible.

Harrow redeployees will be given priority consideration.

The personal information we have collected from you will be shared with Cifas who will use it to prevent fraud, other unlawful or dishonest conduct, malpractice, and other seriously improper conduct. If any of these are detected you could be refused certain services or employment. Your personal information will also be used to verify your identity. Further details of how your information will be used by us and Cifas, any your data protection rights, can be found by visiting www.cifas.org.uk/fpn