Interim Chief Policy & Research Officer

National Health Charity
London (Hybrid)
Circa. £110,000 - 120,000
Hackney

Starfish Search is partnering with a large national health charity to appoint an Interim Chief Policy & Research. This role sits on the Executive Leadership Team, with responsibility for policy, research, influencing and innovation. The organisation is navigating a period of transition alongside a rapidly shifting external landscape, and this role will play a central part in maintaining momentum, credibility and impact.

At its heart, the role is about ensuring that the voice and lived experience of people supported by the charity continues to shape national policy, research priorities and system reform, while building strong alliances across government, health and care, academia and the voluntary sector.

THE ROLE

This is a broad, outward‑facing leadership brief. You will:

  • Provide executive leadership across policy, research, influencing and innovation.
  • Act as a credible, authoritative voice for the organisation within government, the health and care system and with national stakeholders.
  • Lead a sophisticated, multi‑layered influencing strategy to shape funding decisions, national strategies and system priorities.
  • Oversee a high‑profile research portfolio, strengthening national and international influence and partnerships.
  • Develop ambitious propositions that attract investment, funding and strategic partnerships.
  • Bring together evidence, research and insight to help shape organisational strategy during an interim period.

You will bring:

  • Senior‑level leadership experience and credibility with government, health systems or related bodies.
  • Experience of operating effectively in an interim or change context.
  • A strong track record of building partnerships and delivering system‑level impact.
  • Strategic thinking underpinned by robust evidence and analytical capability.

This appointment is offered on a 6–9 month fixed‑term basis, with a salary in the region of £110,000–£120,000, with headroom for an outstanding candidate. The role is UK‑based, with regular engagement across national stakeholders. This is a hybrid role with a two days/ week commitment in the offices (London/National).

How to apply

To make an application, please click on the apply now button below:

For more information, please contact tom.race@starfishsearch.com

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