Policy Analyst Job Description Template

The Policy Analyst Job Description below sets out the role, core duties and the skills required for professionals who assess, develop and advise on public or organisational policy. Candidates with strong analytical ability, concise written communications and experience in policy research or evaluation should consider this role.

Policy Analyst Job Profile

The policy analyst conducts evidence based research and analysis to inform policy development, regulatory proposals and strategic decision making. The role focuses on identifying problems, assessing options and producing clear recommendations for senior stakeholders and policy makers.

This position supports policy formulation, consultation and implementation by synthesising data, monitoring impacts and maintaining awareness of legislative and sector developments. The analyst will work across teams and with external stakeholders to ensure policy work is robust, practicable and aligned to stated objectives.

Policy Analyst Job Description

The policy analyst is responsible for producing timely, well structured policy advice and documentation. Typical tasks include commissioning and reviewing research, carrying out impact assessments, drafting briefings and presenting findings to internal and external audiences. The role requires balancing short term requests with longer term policy projects and priorities.

Work is carried out in an environment that demands accuracy, impartiality and clarity. The analyst is expected to engage with stakeholders to gather evidence, test assumptions and build consensus where required. Outputs must be accessible to non specialist readers and provide clear rationale for recommended actions.

The role may involve managing elements of consultation processes, tracking performance against policy objectives and contributing to evaluation activities. The analyst will maintain accurate records of research, decisions and version control to support transparency and future policy development.

Policy Analyst: Duties and Responsibilities

• Research and analyse quantitative and qualitative data to inform policy options and recommendations.
• Prepare concise policy briefs, reports and decision papers for senior managers and external stakeholders.
• Conduct impact assessments including economic, social and equality considerations where relevant.
• Draft consultation documents and manage stakeholder feedback mechanisms.
• Monitor legislation, regulatory changes and sector trends that affect policy development.
• Engage with internal teams, government departments and external partners to gather evidence and test proposals.
• Present findings and recommendations at meetings, workshops and stakeholder forums.
• Design and implement evaluation frameworks to assess policy outcomes and performance.
• Ensure policy proposals are consistent with legal and regulatory requirements and organisational objectives.
• Contribute to the development of strategic policy plans and implementation schedules.
• Maintain clear records of research sources, consultations and decision rationale.
• Provide expert advice in response to enquiries and support briefing for ministers or senior executives where applicable.
• Identify and manage risks associated with policy options and proposed interventions.
• Support project management activities for policy initiatives, including timelines and stakeholder coordination.

Policy Analyst: Requirements and Qualifications

• Degree in public policy, economics, law, social sciences or a related discipline.
• Proven experience in policy analysis, research or a comparable advisory role, typically two years or more.
• Strong analytical skills with the ability to interpret data and present findings clearly.
• Excellent written communication and report writing skills for diverse audiences.
• Experience performing impact assessments and evaluating policy options.
• Practical stakeholder engagement and consultation experience.
• Sound understanding of legislative and regulatory processes.
• Ability to manage multiple tasks and priorities within tight timeframes.
• Good judgement and ethical standards when handling sensitive information.
• Attention to detail and commitment to accuracy in documentation and analysis.
• Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Comfortable presenting complex information clearly to non specialist audiences.
• Familiarity with evaluation methods and performance monitoring is desirable.