EY Foundation Policy and Research Officer 2026: Permanent Career Opportunity in London, Birmingham, Manchester or Glasgow

The EY Foundation is accepting applications for a Policy and Research Officer, offering an exciting permanent career opportunity for professionals with experience in research, policy development, stakeholder engagement, project management and evidence-based decision-making.

Based in London, Birmingham, Manchester or Glasgow, the position will join the EY Foundation’s Influence Team and contribute directly to the organisation’s work to improve employment opportunities and outcomes for young people from low-income backgrounds.

The EY Foundation is expanding the capacity of its influence function, and the newly recruited Policy and Research Officer will play an important role in supporting this growth. The successful candidate will provide research and policy expertise, strengthen the evidence base underpinning the Foundation’s activities, and contribute to its external policy and public affairs voice.

This is a hands-on and delivery-focused position particularly suited to someone who is confident working across research and policy and who can translate evidence and complex information into practical insights and actions.

Application Deadline: 20 September 2026

About the EY Foundation

The EY Foundation is a charity established in 2014 with the purpose of helping young people from low-income backgrounds develop the skills they need to succeed in the workplace.

The organisation was founded by EY, the professional services firm, which continues to serve as its primary funder.

The Foundation’s ambition is for young people who are eligible for Free School Meals to have employment and earnings potential that is equitable with that of other young people across the United Kingdom.

Its approach is informed by an understanding of both sides of the labour market. By bringing together young people and employers, the Foundation seeks to address barriers to employment while helping young people develop skills and access opportunities.

Its activities include:

• Delivering employability skills programmes.
• Developing scalable digital interventions.
• Collaborating with a wide range of organisations.
• Bringing employers and young people together.
• Using its convening power to influence systemic change.
• Building evidence that can support improvements in employment and skills outcomes.

The EY Foundation operates across regions of the UK, with team members based in four main hubs: London, Manchester, Glasgow and Birmingham.

As an independent charity, it raises income through corporate partnerships, traditional fundraising activities and grants.

Where Will the Policy and Research Officer Be Based?

Applicants may be based in one of four locations:

• London
• Birmingham
• Manchester
• Glasgow

The EY Foundation operates a hybrid working model.

Staff ordinarily work from the office for at least one day each week. However, depending on the responsibilities associated with the position and specific organisational requirements, employees may occasionally be expected to attend an office or external events more frequently.

Candidates should therefore consider their ability to work effectively within this hybrid arrangement when applying.

About the EY Foundation Policy and Research Officer Role

The Policy and Research Officer will become part of the EY Foundation’s Influence Team and report to the Policy and Public Affairs Manager.

The position is national in scope and is closely connected to the Foundation’s ambition of helping young people from low-income backgrounds access meaningful employment opportunities.

The successful candidate will contribute to the implementation of the Foundation’s influence strategy by designing and coordinating impactful research projects and ensuring that research is robust, relevant and informed by the lived experiences of the young people the organisation supports.

The Policy and Research Officer will also help shape the Foundation’s policy agenda.

This will include producing policy briefings, responding to consultations and developing relationships with relevant external stakeholders with the aim of influencing change at a systemic level.

The Foundation describes the opportunity as particularly suitable for someone who thrives in a dynamic and purpose-led environment and is passionate about using evidence to advance equity and opportunity.

A strong commitment to social mobility, diversity and inclusion is also expected.

Key Responsibilities

The responsibilities associated with the EY Foundation Policy and Research Officer position span research, project management, policy development and stakeholder engagement.

1. Conduct Research and Landscape Reviews

The successful candidate will undertake comprehensive landscape reviews.

These reviews will help identify gaps in existing evidence and research and inform the development of future projects.

This requires the ability to assess substantial amounts of information, identify meaningful trends and gaps, and translate findings into useful recommendations.

2. Maintain a PESTLE Analysis

The Policy and Research Officer will maintain and update a quarterly PESTLE analysis.

PESTLE covers:

• Political factors
• Economic factors
• Social factors
• Technological factors
• Legal factors
• Environmental factors

This analysis will be used to inform the Foundation’s research priorities, policy positioning and approach to stakeholder engagement.

Candidates should therefore be comfortable analysing external developments and understanding how wider political, economic and social changes may affect the organisation’s priorities and the young people it supports.

3. Develop Research Briefs

Another important responsibility will involve developing research briefs and invitations to tender.

The successful candidate will advise on suitable research methodologies and approaches, requiring a sound understanding of both qualitative and quantitative research.

Research Project Management

Project management forms a significant component of the position.

The successful candidate will lead the delivery of internal and external research projects and ensure that projects:

• Are delivered within agreed timelines.
• Remain within their defined scope.
• Align with the EY Foundation’s strategic objectives.
• Produce robust and useful outputs.

This means applicants should be comfortable taking ownership of research initiatives from initiation through to completion with relatively limited supervision.

The Policy and Research Officer will also plan and deliver stakeholder engagement events. These activities will provide opportunities to gather insights from stakeholders and communicate research findings.

The successful candidate will work with the communications team to support effective dissemination of research and insights.

Policy Development and Stakeholder Engagement

The position goes beyond conducting research. A major part of the role involves translating evidence into policy engagement and influence.

Policy Briefings

The successful candidate will produce timely briefings responding to:

• Policy developments.
• New research reports.
• Relevant sector trends.
• Other developments affecting the Foundation’s areas of interest.

These materials will be developed for both internal and external audiences.

Consultation Responses and Policy Submissions

The Policy and Research Officer will draft consultation responses and policy submissions.

These submissions must align with the Foundation’s priority areas while accurately reflecting its established policy positions and wider public affairs strategy.

Briefing Materials and Presentations

Candidates will prepare briefing materials and presentations for a variety of important engagements, including:

• Meetings
• Conferences
• High-profile events
• Stakeholder discussions

The ability to communicate complicated research findings and policy issues clearly and persuasively will therefore be particularly important.

Stakeholder Relationships

The successful candidate will identify and engage relevant stakeholders who can help disseminate research findings and advance the Foundation’s influence.

Stakeholders may include policymakers, researchers, funders and other organisations working within relevant sectors.

Engagement activities and follow-up actions will also need to be recorded through the Foundation’s CRM system. This will help maintain accountability and enable the organisation to assess the impact of its stakeholder relationships.

Required Skills

Applicants should demonstrate strong capabilities across research, analysis, communication, project management and stakeholder engagement.

The required skills include:

Advanced Analytical Skills

Applicants should demonstrate expertise in advanced analytical methodologies.

Candidates need a proven ability to interpret and synthesise complex data drawn from multiple sources and use this information to inform strategic decision-making.

Exceptional Written Communication

Strong written communication is essential.

Applicants should have demonstrated experience producing high-impact materials such as:

• Research reports.
• Strategic briefings.
• Policy documents.
• Evidence-based materials designed to influence stakeholders.

The successful candidate must be able to transform complicated research and evidence into clear, persuasive and actionable communications.

Project Management

Candidates need strong project management capabilities and should be comfortable overseeing the different stages of research projects from initiation through to completion.

They should be able to operate with minimal supervision while ensuring projects remain aligned with wider strategic objectives.

Organisation and Attention to Detail

Strong organisational skills and careful attention to detail are required.

The successful candidate will need to coordinate multiple activities while maintaining high standards across research, policy and stakeholder-facing outputs.

Stakeholder Engagement

Applicants should have demonstrated experience developing strategic relationships with a range of external stakeholders.

These could include:

• Policymakers
• Researchers
• Funders
• Sector organisations
• Other relevant external partners

Relationship-building is important because these connections can strengthen the organisation’s credibility and expand its ability to influence change.

Knowledge Requirements

Candidates are expected to bring extensive professional or technical knowledge and experience within their specialist area.

They should have a comprehensive understanding of:

• Qualitative research methodologies.
• Quantitative research methodologies.
• Ethical research practices.
• Policy issues relating to young people.
• Education policy.
• Skills and employment.
• Stakeholder mapping and engagement.
• Policy and public affairs environments.

Importantly, candidates should have thorough knowledge of the policy landscape in England and Scotland, particularly in relation to young people, education, skills and employment.

Applicants should also understand the challenges and barriers experienced by young people who are eligible for Free School Meals or who come from low-income backgrounds.

The successful candidate should understand how to develop and deliver effective stakeholder mapping and engagement strategies within a policy or public affairs environment.

Professional Experience Required

Applicants should demonstrate relevant professional experience across research, evaluation, policy and stakeholder engagement.

The EY Foundation specifically seeks candidates with:

• Proven experience coordinating or delivering research and evaluation projects.
• Extensive experience using evidence to influence policy, programme design and organisational strategy.
• Experience coordinating external-facing events, briefings and consultations.
• Experience facilitating meaningful stakeholder engagement.
• Experience presenting research findings to internal and external audiences.
• The ability to communicate complex information clearly and persuasively.
• Experience working with or within think tanks, charities and research consultancies.

These requirements indicate that the opportunity is aimed at applicants who can combine research expertise with practical experience applying evidence within policy, programme and organisational contexts.

Educational Qualifications

Applicants should hold a:

Degree or equivalent experience in a relevant discipline.

Examples of relevant disciplines provided by the EY Foundation include:

• Social sciences
• Education
• Economics
• Public policy
• Research

Equivalent professional experience may also be considered, meaning the requirement is not limited exclusively to applicants following a particular academic pathway.

Desirable Skills and Experience

In addition to the required criteria, several skills and qualifications are considered desirable.

Data Analysis and Visualisation

Experience in data visualisation or statistical analysis would be advantageous.

Relevant tools may include:

• Microsoft Excel
• Power BI
• SPSS
• R

Applicants who can use these tools to analyse information and communicate research findings may bring additional value to the position.

Facilitation Skills

Experience facilitating workshops or gathering insights from young people and other stakeholders is desirable.

This could be particularly valuable when conducting participatory research or stakeholder engagement activities.

Participatory Research

Experience with participatory research methodologies, especially approaches involving young people, would strengthen an application.

Parliamentary and Public Affairs Knowledge

Knowledge of parliamentary processes and public affairs engagement strategies is another desirable attribute.

This would support the successful candidate in understanding how research and policy evidence can be used effectively within wider policy and decision-making environments.

Cross-Sector Partnerships

Experience supporting events or contributing to cross-sector partnerships is desirable.

Candidates may also benefit from experience working collaboratively across different organisational functions to translate programme insights into policy recommendations.

The Foundation values the ability to use research evidence not only to advocate externally but also to inform, refine and improve programme design and delivery internally.

Desirable Postgraduate Qualification

A postgraduate qualification in one of the following areas would be advantageous:

• Research methods
• Public policy
• A related discipline

However, this is listed as desirable rather than as a mandatory requirement.

Recruitment and Interview Process

The EY Foundation uses a comprehensive recruitment process designed to assess applicants’ skills, motivation and potential.

Candidates progressing through the process should prepare for two interview stages.

First-Stage Interview

The first interview will assess candidates across three major areas.

Competency-based questions

Candidates will be assessed on technical and professional competencies relevant to the Policy and Research Officer position.

Applicants should therefore be prepared to provide clear examples demonstrating their research, policy, project management, analytical and stakeholder engagement capabilities.

Motivational questions

The interview will explore applicants’ motivations, passion for the work and alignment with the EY Foundation’s mission and organisational values.

Candidates should understand the Foundation’s purpose and be prepared to explain why they want to contribute to its work.

Scenario-based questions

Applicants will also respond to hypothetical scenarios.

These questions will provide candidates with an opportunity to demonstrate their:

• Problem-solving skills.
• Judgement.
• Decision-making abilities.
• Ability to respond to realistic professional situations.

Second-Stage Interview

Candidates progressing to the second stage will face additional assessments.

Presentation development

Candidates will be asked to develop and deliver a presentation on a topic connected with the position.

This will assess communication, presentation and potentially research and analytical capabilities.

Understanding of the organisation

Candidates will also be expected to demonstrate a strong understanding of the EY Foundation.

This includes knowledge of:

• Its mission.
• Its values.
• The communities it serves.
• The wider sector in which it operates.

Applicants who reach this stage should therefore undertake detailed preparation on the organisation and its work.

Important Recruitment Dates

Candidates should take note of the following dates:

• Application deadline: 20 September 2026
• First-round interviews: 1 and 2 October 2026
• Second-round interviews: 7 and 8 October 2026

Applicants should consider their potential availability for these interview dates before submitting an application.

Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging at EY Foundation

Diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging form an important part of the EY Foundation’s organisational approach.

The Foundation states that it seeks to create an environment where people feel valued, respected and empowered to be themselves.

It is an Equal Opportunities Employer and welcomes applications from people representing different backgrounds, identities and experiences.

The organisation emphasises continuous learning and improvement as part of building an inclusive workplace in which individuals can thrive.

The successful Policy and Research Officer will also be expected to demonstrate a strong commitment to social mobility, diversity and inclusion.

Safeguarding Requirements

The EY Foundation is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children.

Staff and volunteers are expected to share this commitment.

Successful candidates will need to undertake an Enhanced DBS check through the Disclosure and Barring Service where appropriate.

Applicants should be aware of this requirement before applying.

Accessibility During Recruitment

The EY Foundation states that it is committed to providing an inclusive and accessible recruitment experience.

Candidates requiring adjustments or additional support during recruitment, selection or onboarding are encouraged to communicate their requirements to the organisation.

This commitment extends across the recruitment and onboarding journey.

Why Consider the EY Foundation Policy and Research Officer Opportunity?

This position could be particularly attractive to research and policy professionals who want their work to contribute to wider social impact.

Rather than focusing exclusively on research production, the position connects several important areas:

1. Research and evidence generation.
2. Policy development.
3. Public affairs.
4. Stakeholder engagement.
5. Project management.
6. Youth employment and social mobility.
7. Strategic organisational influence.

The successful candidate will have opportunities to turn evidence into practical policy and organisational action while contributing to the Foundation’s mission of improving opportunities for young people from low-income backgrounds.

It is therefore particularly relevant to professionals interested in the intersection of research, social mobility, youth policy, education, employment, public affairs and evidence-based policy development.

How to Apply for the EY Foundation Policy and Research Officer Position

Interested candidates should submit their application through the official EY careers recruitment platform.

Applicants should carefully review the complete position description and ensure that their application demonstrates how their qualifications, skills and professional experience align with the required criteria.

Given the nature of the role, candidates may particularly benefit from demonstrating concrete examples of:

• Research projects they have led or coordinated.
• Qualitative and quantitative research experience.
• Research or evaluation methodologies they have used.
• Policy documents or briefings they have produced.
• How their research has informed policy or programme decisions.
• Stakeholder relationships they have developed.
• External events, consultations or briefings they have coordinated.
• Examples of translating complex evidence into accessible recommendations.
• Experience related to youth, education, skills, employment or social mobility.
• Commitment to diversity, inclusion and equitable opportunities.

Candidates should also familiarise themselves thoroughly with the EY Foundation, its mission and its work before progressing to interview.

Application Deadline

Applications for the EY Foundation Policy and Research Officer position must be submitted by:

20 September 2026

Prospective applicants are encouraged to prepare and submit their applications ahead of the closing date rather than waiting until the final day.

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Conclusion

The EY Foundation Policy and Research Officer 2026 opportunity offers experienced research and policy professionals the chance to contribute to an organisation focused on improving employment prospects and economic opportunities for young people from low-income backgrounds.

As a permanent position based in London, Birmingham, Manchester or Glasgow, the role combines research, policy development, project management, stakeholder engagement and public affairs within a purpose-led environment.

The successful candidate will help develop the evidence underpinning the Foundation’s work, coordinate internal and external research projects, produce policy briefings and consultation responses, engage influential stakeholders and contribute to the organisation’s broader influence strategy.

Candidates with a relevant degree or equivalent experience, strong research capabilities, knowledge of qualitative and quantitative methodologies, policy expertise and experience translating evidence into action are particularly well aligned with the position.

With applications closing on 20 September 2026, interested candidates should review the requirements carefully, prepare evidence demonstrating their research and policy experience, and submit their application through the official EY recruitment platform before the deadline.

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