Vacancies

Communications and Public Affairs Officer

Location: Home working (with travel across the North of England as required)

Organisation: Northern Health Science Alliance (NHSA) and Health Equity North (HEN)

Reports to: Head of Public Affairs

Salary: £26,500 – £29,500 dependent on experience

Contract Type: Full-time, fixed-term contract of 12 months

The Role

We are seeking a proactive and highly organised Communications and Public Affairs Officer to join our collaborative team supporting both the Northern Health Science Alliance (NHSA) and Health Equity North (HEN).

This is a unique opportunity to work at the intersection of health and life science research, policy, and regional advocacy, helping to shape the narrative around health innovation and inequality across the North of England.

The post holder will support the Heads of Communications and Public Affairs on a range of communications and public affairs activities positioning of the NHSA and HEN, raising their profile and reputation.

As our Communications and Public Affairs Officer, you will play a key role in delivering impactful communications strategies, engaging with stakeholders across health, academia, government, industry and media, and supporting our mission to improve health outcomes and address inequalities across the North.

We’re looking for someone who can write clear and compelling content across a range of communications channels and media, with an interest and awareness of the political landscape in which we operate.

Key Responsibilities

Communications

• Support the communications team in the delivery of effective NHSA-wide media and communications strategies.
• Take ownership of the NHSA’s social media channels – developing engaging content for our audiences, identifying opportunities grow reach and keeping abreast of the latest trends.
• Write the NHSA and HEN monthly newsletters
• Manage and maintain website content
• Monitor and evaluate social media, newsletter and website engagement and PR coverage
• Develop and maintain good relationships with stakeholders, partnership organisations and research councils

Public Affairs

• Monitor relevant policy developments, parliamentary activity, and health/science news
• Support stakeholder mapping and engagement with regional and national policymakers
• Support drafting policy briefings, consultation responses and communications to stakeholders
• Develop and maintain relationships with political, academic, NHS, and industry stakeholders
• Support senior team members in strategic advocacy work and external engagements
• Support the team with planning and executing internal and external events

Person Specification

Essential

• A degree and/or experience in a communications, public affairs, or media relations role
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills with the ability to craft clear, impactful copy
• Strong understanding of how Parliament works and the UK health, science and innovation landscape
• Ability to work independently, manage multiple projects, and meet deadlines
• Proficient in digital communications such as social media management/websites

Desirable

• Knowledge of regional inequalities, public health issues and the life science sector across the North of England

About NHSA and HEN

The Northern Health Science Alliance (NHSA) is a partnership of leading NHS trusts and universities across the North of England, driving innovation in health and life sciences and championing the North’s role in UK health research.

Health Equity North (HEN) is a research and advocacy partnership focused on tackling health inequalities across the North through evidence, policy engagement, and cross-sector collaboration.

To Apply:
To be considered for the role, you must send both a CV and a covering letter outlining your interest and suitability for the role. Please send to: ruth.boston@theNHSA.co.uk

Deadline for applications: Sunday, July 27, 2025 at 23:59
Interviews to be held: Early August