Principal Policy - Devolution

Hours: 37 hours per week Contract: Permanent - Full Time Salary: Grade 13 £61,352 - £66,514 Location: Sheffield (This is a hybrid role with a minimum of 3 days per week in the office) The devolution agenda is entering a new era.

Responsibilities

and influence. Government is looking to places to drive growth, reform public services, tackle inequalities and deliver better outcomes for communities. The next phase of devolution will determine who controls investment, how public services are organised, and the extent to which places can shape their own futures.

At the South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority, we are determined to be at the forefront of that conversation. We're looking for an exceptional policy leader to help shape the next chapter of devolution for South Yorkshire. This is a rare opportunity to influence national policy, work directly with senior leaders and Government, and help secure the powers, resources and freedoms that will enable South Yorkshire to achieve its ambitions for growth, opportunity and prosperity.

Why this role matters South Yorkshire has already secured significant devolved powers and investment. But the conversation is moving on. Questions about fiscal devolution, integrated settlements, public service reform, local control, investment freedoms and the future role of mayoral authorities are becoming increasingly central to Government policy.

South Yorkshire intends to play a leading role in shaping those debates. As Principal Policy Lead (Devolution), you will sit at the heart of this work. You will help develop the region's positions on some of the most important policy questions facing the country, translating national reforms into opportunities for South Yorkshire and turning local ambition into credible, deliverable propositions for Government.

You'll lead work that influences decision-making at the highest levels of local and national government while helping to ensure South Yorkshire continues to secure the powers and resources needed to deliver for our communities. Applications must be accompanied by a cover letter to detail how you meet the criteria as detailed within the role profile. (please see role profile attached).

Please note, all applications should be made directly via our careers portal . You'll lead SYMCA's strategic policy work on devolution, working across the organisation and with partners to develop ambitious but deliverable propositions that strengthen local control and unlock investment. Your work will include: Shaping South Yorkshire's position on future devolution deals, powers, funding arrangements and institutional reform.

Developing proposals on issues such as fiscal devolution, integrated settlements, public service reform and new approaches to investment. Advising senior leaders, the Mayor and Executive Leadership Team on emerging opportunities, risks and strategic choices. Leading complex cross-organisational policy projects that bring together expertise from growth, skills, transport, housing, place, net zero and public service reform.

Building influential relationships with Government departments, other mayoral authorities, local authorities, think tanks and national policy networks. Representing South Yorkshire in national forums and helping shape the wider devolution debate. Ensuring South Yorkshire is ready to respond quickly and effectively to emerging Government reforms and opportunities.

This is a role for someone who enjoys operating in complex environments, making sense of ambiguity and turning ideas into clear, evidence-based policy propositions. We're looking for someone who combines strategic thinking with practical delivery. You'll have significant experience of policy development, public policy, strategy, devolution, local government, economic development or public service reform.