Life Sciences Policy and Influencing Manager

Join an amazing charity that makes a difference for the 110,000 adults and children in the UK with a muscle-wasting condition. This is a role where you can really make a difference.

We are committed to building a diverse and inclusive organisation that reflects the communities we serve. We actively encourage applications from individuals of all backgrounds, particularly those from underrepresented groups including people from ethnic minority backgrounds, LGBTQ+ individuals, and those with lived experience of conditions we represent. We believe that diversity strengthens our work and helps us better support our beneficiaries.

This is an exciting time to join Muscular Dystrophy UK. We recently launched our new 10 year strategy to transform the lives of people living with muscle wasting conditions. Our vision is clear, a world without limits for people with
muscle wasting conditions, and we won t stop until we achieve it.

Main purpose of role:
This is a unique opportunity to lead Muscular Dystrophy UK s policy work to improve access to treatment and shape life science policy for people living with muscle wasting conditions.

With exciting progress in treatment development but challenges with NHS system readiness, you ll be at the forefront of efforts to ensure everyone in the UK can access the best available therapies quickly and equitably.

You ll build strong relationships with governments, regulators, charities, and industry, lead our technology appraisal work, and grow our influence in life sciences policy, particularly around clinical trials and the implementation of the UK Life Sciences plan, drawing on Muscular Dystrophy UK s rich history in medical research.

Working collaboratively across teams including Policy and Campaigns, Research, Marketing and Communications, and our devolved nation leads in Services and Support you ll help deliver key strategic objectives.

Reporting to the Director of Policy and Campaigns and working within a matrix structure with the Director of Research and Innovation, you ll play a vital role in driving change and improving lives.

Benefits:

We appreciate the range of skills and experience our staff have to offer. In return for your enthusiasm and commitment we commit to actively developing and supporting you. We also offer a range of benefits including pension, life assurance, cycle scheme, health cash plan, financial wellbeing and an employee assistance programme.

Cover Letter Guidance for Applicants
When submitting your application, please ensure your cover letter provides clear evidence of the following:
• Experience in research, policy, public affairs, or a closely related field
• Proven ability to influence government, decision makers, or public policy ideally within the health, life sciences, or disability sectors
• Strong understanding of NHS structures, regulatory frameworks, and health technology assessment (HTA) policies and processes
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to convey complex information clearly to diverse audiences
• Robust research and analytical skills, including the ability to gather, interpret, and present information persuasively

Your cover letter should demonstrate how your background aligns with these criteria, using specific examples where possible

Location: Head Office, London, SE1 (with flexibility for homeworking with regular travel to Westminster)
Closing date: Sunday 23rd November
Interview dates Monday 1st and Tuesday 2nd December 2025

Please download the job description to see full role responsibilities