Assistant Director of Strategy, Policy and Stakeholder Engagement

Closing date: 23 July 2026

Interview dates: 04 and 06 August 2026 (in person)

12-month FTC

About us

The Parliamentary and Health Service Ombudsman (PHSO) is a modern, vibrant organisation full of passionate, committed people. We make final decisions on complaints that have not been resolved by UK Government departments and the NHS in England. We work closely with people to understand where, how and why public services sometimes fall short and fail to put people first. And we find ways to put it right.

Based in the centre of Manchester and Westminster, we employ over 600 individuals, collaboratively working together to make voices heard. We have created a diverse and inclusive culture, whilst offering flexibility to give you the autonomy to work in the best way suited to you.

This is an opportunity to join us at a senior level and shape how we influence change across public services. You will work on issues that matter, using insight from complaints to improve how services are delivered, and building relationships at the highest levels to make sure peoples experiences lead to real change.

The role

This is a senior leadership role where you will shape how we think, plan and work as an organisation. You will lead our strategy, policy and stakeholder engagement teams, making sure our plans are clear, evidence based and focused on improving public services.

You will work closely with senior leaders, including the Executive Team and Board, to provide advice on key issues and help set direction. You will also build strong relationships with people across government, the NHS and other organisations, making sure our work has real influence and supports change.

Alongside this, you will lead and develop high performing teams, making sure they have clear direction and support to deliver. This is a role where you can have a real impact, using insight from our work to shape policy, improve services and make a difference to the public.

What we are looking for:

• significant experience in a senior strategy, policy, research, or stakeholder engagement role, ideally within the public or health sector

• proven track record of developing and implementing strategy and policy to deliver organisational objectives

• in-depth understanding of strategy development, policy analysis, research methodologies, and stakeholder engagement methods

• strong stakeholder management and influencing skills, with experience of engaging and building relationships with a wide range of internal and external stakeholders, including senior government officials and public sector leaders

• excellent leadership and team management skills, with the ability to motivate and develop high-performing teams.

We recognise the value of lived experience. If you have experience of complaining about any public body, we strongly encourage you to apply.