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NOW RECRUITING: Head of Policy and Communications
Are you passionate about social justice, public health, and using your voice to make change happen?
Scottish Drugs Forum (SDF) is looking for a driven, strategic, and values-led Head of Policy and Communications to lead our communications and policy work at a time when Scotland’s response to drug-related issues requires urgency and strong leadership.
This is not a behind-the-scenes role – it’s a chance to shape national conversation, influence policy, and help shift attitudes towards drug use and the people affected by it.
About Us
Scottish Drugs Forum (SDF) is Scotland’s national resource of expertise on drugs and drug use. Established in 1986, we are a membership-based charity working towards our vision of a Scotland free from drug-related health and social harm, through compassionate, inclusive, and evidence-informed policy and practice.
Our mission is to improve the country’s response to drug-related issues through compassionate, inclusive, and evidence-informed policy and practice. We bring together people with lived and living experience, service providers, researchers, and decision-makers to create a more humane and effective approach to drugs – one that recognises dignity, reduces stigma, and saves lives.
Job Title: Head of Policy and Communications
Accountable to: Chief Executive Officer
Working Hours: 35 hours per week
Term: Permanent, subject to continued funding
Based: Home-based, will require frequent travel to Glasgow
Area Covered: Scotland
Special Conditions: Possible evening work/National travel
Closing Date: 2nd June at 5pm
Interview Date: 16th June
How to Apply:
Please download the SDF Application Form. Once you’ve completed the form, please access our online HR system, where you can apply for the position by uploading your completed application.
You can view the Job Description online or download a copy for future reference below.
Scottish Drugs Forum is an equal opportunities employer. We actively encourage applications from people with lived or living experience of drug use, and from candidates of all backgrounds and identities. We are committed to building a diverse and inclusive team that reflects the communities we serve.
CVs will not be accepted, candidates must complete and upload the SDF Application form to apply.
Should you wish to discuss this post please contact our Glasgow Office on 0141 221 1175.
Registered Scottish Charity No. SC008075
About the Role
As our Head of Policy and Communications, you will lead the strategy and delivery of SDF’s policy influence and communications. You’ll manage a talented team and ensure that our work – from research reports to social media – reaches and resonates with key audiences including policymakers, practitioners, media, and people with lived and living experience.
This role offers an exciting opportunity to be the voice behind one of Scotland’s most respected drugs policy organisations – ensuring our messages are powerful, clear, and grounded in evidence and compassion.
Key Responsibilities
· Lead SDF’s policy and practice activity, shaping our response to government proposals and driving proactive policy development.
· Oversee and develop all communications work, including our website, social media, newsletters, member engagement, and the production of reports, resources, and publications.
· Manage SDF’s media relations, handling both proactive and reactive press activity with confidence and credibility.
· Line-manage the Communications Team, including our Content Creator and Editor and Peer Engagement Officer (peer magazine), Communication and Design Officer, and Communications Worker — ensuring coordinated, high-impact work.
What We’re Looking For
We’re seeking someone who is:
· A skilled communicator with a deep understanding of Scotland’s drug policy landscape.
· A strategic thinker who can balance reactive work with long-term planning.
· Confident in leading teams and working collaboratively across departments.
· Passionate about inclusion, human rights, and amplifying the voices of people with lived and living experience.
What You’ll Get
· The chance to make a real difference at a national level.
· A supportive, flexible working environment committed to staff wellbeing and development.
· Generous holiday allowance and pension contribution.
· Ongoing opportunities for learning and professional growth