Research & Policy Manager

The disability employment gap remains persistently high, and systems across the UK are under pressure to deliver meaningful change. This role offers the opportunity to lead work that shapes how policy, practice and lived experience come together to improve outcomes.

We are recruiting a Research & Policy Manager to lead our research, evidence and policy influence at a pivotal moment for employment and inclusion reform. This senior, outward‑facing role suits someone confident in shaping research and evaluation, influencing policy, building partnerships and translating insight into practical system change.

About us

BASE (the British Association for Supported Employment) is the national membership body for supported employment in the UK. We work to ensure that disabled people and others facing disadvantage can access fair, meaningful and sustainable employment. Our members include local authorities, providers, charities and organisations delivering high‑quality supported employment and inclusive labour market support.

The role

The Research & Policy Manager will lead our research, evaluation and policy activity, ensuring our advocacy and public voice are credible, evidence‑led and impactful. The role exists to:

• Build and maintain a strong evidence base for supported employment and inclusive labour market approaches
• Translate research, data and lived experience into clear, persuasive policy positions
• Strengthen our influence with government, funders and system leaders
• Embed learning, evaluation and insight across the organisation and wider sector

You will play a central role in shaping how evidence informs national and local policy and practice.

What you will do

You will lead work across four interconnected areas:

Research and evidence leadership

• Design and deliver research, evaluation and sector insight activity
• Identify and secure opportunities for externally funded research
• Commission and manage partnerships with academic and research organisations

Policy influence and system change

• Translate evidence into policy positions, briefings and consultation responses
• Engage with government, policymakers and system leaders
• Contribute to national discussions on inclusive employment and labour market reform

Insight and impact

• Bring together research, lived experience and frontline practice
• Communicate complex ideas clearly to diverse audiences
• Strengthen how evidence informs decision‑making across systems

Partnerships and collaboration

• Build relationships across academia, government, employers and the voluntary sector
• Work collaboratively with people with lived experience to shape priorities and influence change

Who we are looking for

We are seeking someone who combines intellectual curiosity with a strong commitment to social impact.

You will bring:

• Significant experience in research, policy, evaluation or impact‑focused roles
• A strong understanding of UK public policy processes and how change happens
• Experience influencing decision‑makers or system leaders
• The ability to translate complex evidence into clear, persuasive insight

You will have:

• Excellent analytical and critical‑thinking skills
• Relevant qualifications
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• The ability to build trusted relationships across sectors
• A commitment to inclusion, equity and working alongside lived experience

We welcome candidates from academic, policy, think‑tank, consultancy or practice‑based backgrounds.

Why join us

This is an opportunity to shape policy and practice at a national level, work at the intersection of research and lived experience, and contribute to a growing, values‑led organisation. You will work closely with the Chief Executive, with real scope to shape our research and policy direction.

How to apply

Submit:

• A CV
• A supporting statement (max 2 pages) outlining your interest and alignment

Informal enquiries: laura.davis@base‑uk.org

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