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Director of Policy & Research
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Creative UK
Director of Policy & Research
Salary: Up to £80,000 + benefits
Location: Flexible hybrid working, with access to workspaces in London, Bristol and Manchester (minimum 2 days per week in a workspace)
Contract: Full-time, Permanent
This job post will be advertised for a minimum period of two weeks on LinkedIn. After this time please apply directly to https://lead-wearecreative.gs-attract.com/ until the closing date of 21st September, 2026.
The UK's creative industries are one of the country's great success stories. They enrich communities, fuel innovation, create jobs and contribute billions to the economy. At the heart of this dynamic sector sits Creative UK, the independent network for the UK's creative industries, championing the organisations, businesses and individuals that power creativity across the nation.
At a time of significant opportunity and change, Creative UK is strengthening its voice and influence across government, industry and the wider economy. As investment, skills, innovation and growth rise further up the national agenda, there has never been a more important moment to shape the future of the UK's creative and cultural sectors.
We are now seeking an exceptional Director of Policy & Research to join our Executive Leadership Team. Reporting directly to the CEO, you will shape the evidence, insight and advocacy that informs national debate, influences decision-makers and helps unlock the full potential of the creative economy. You will play a leading role in positioning Creative UK as the authoritative voice for the sector, ensuring the perspectives of members, partners and creative communities are reflected in policy and practice.
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As Director of Policy & Research, you will:
- Develop and deliver an ambitious, evidence-led policy and research strategy that strengthens Creative UK's influence and supports the growth of the sector.
- Lead public affairs, advocacy and influencing activity across government, parliament and industry.
- Build Creative UK's reputation as a trusted, authoritative and inclusive voice on the issues that matter most to the creative economy.
- Ensure policy positions are informed by robust research, data and insight from across the UK's creative and cultural industries.
- Convene and engage members, partners and stakeholders to shape priorities and amplify the breadth of voices across the sector.
- Provide strategic advice to the CEO, Board and Executive Leadership Team on political, policy and sector developments.
- Lead and develop a high-performing policy and research function, fostering a culture of rigour, collaboration and impact.
- Represent Creative UK at high-profile events, forums and stakeholder engagements, championing the role of creativity in driving economic growth and social value.
We welcome applications from individuals with:
- Significant experience in policy, public affairs, research or advocacy, gained within the creative industries, cultural sector, membership organisations, trade bodies or similarly complex environments.
- A track record of developing evidence-led policy positions and influencing senior decision-makers.
- Strong understanding of UK political and policy-making processes.
- Experience building trusted relationships across government, industry, membership networks and strategic partnerships.
- The ability to translate research, evidence and insight into compelling recommendations and impactful advocacy.
- Experience leading and developing high-performing teams.
- Excellent strategic thinking, communication and stakeholder engagement skills.
- A genuine passion for the role creativity, culture and innovation play in shaping the UK's future.
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This is an opportunity to shape national debate, influence decision-makers and champion the future of one of the UK's most important growth sectors. You may currently be working within a membership body, trade association, think tank, cultural organisation, public affairs consultancy, charity, research institute, government department or policy-led organisation. Most importantly, you will combine intellectual credibility, strategic leadership and influencing skills with a commitment to supporting a thriving and inclusive creative economy.
Creative UK is committed to creating an inclusive environment where everyone feels welcomed, respected and valued. We warmly encourage applications from candidates of all backgrounds and experiences.
To find out more about this opportunity, please click Apply.
For a confidential discussion, please contact our recruitment advisers at GatenbySanderson:
- Stephanie Crossland - Stephanie.Crossland@gatenbysanderson.com
Closing date: 21st September, 2026
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