AYY is looking for a specialist in educational policy!

The specialist in educational policy works as part of the student union’s advocacy team and in close cooperation with the board, whose composition changes annually. In this role, you will contribute to the development of Aalto University and promote the realisation of student rights, as advocacy work takes place both at Aalto University and in society at large.

The policy specialist participates in various university working groups and collaborates with university staff. In addition, the specialist is responsible for selecting and training student representatives in administration, cooperating with students and student organisations on education-related issues, and advising students. AYY’s education policy sector covers a wide range of topics from artificial intelligence to study facilities. 

The student union is currently carrying out a comprehensive development of student representative operations and the application process for student representatives. In 2027, Aalto University will launch an international, multidisciplinary bachelor’s programme, and a new President and Provost will be appointed to the university. At the national level, educational policy work is currently focusing on Vision for higher education and research 2040 and on the right of open universities to grant degrees. Among other responsibilities, the policy specialist will work closely on these issues.

In this position, you will be an expert in your area of responsibility, familiarising yourself with current issues and preparing advocacy materials and decision-making processes within the student union. Advocacy work is carried out both locally within the Aalto community and nationwide together with other organisations. Working in the student union and with the university requires enthusiasm for development, an independent approach and initiative, effective implementation of decisions, and a strategic mindset. All our specialists also communicate about their areas of responsibility, supported by the communications team. The role may also include responsibilities that match the skills and interests of the selected candidate.

Requirements:

• Higher education studies
• Experience in advocacy
• Fluency in English and Finnish
• Accuracy and preciseness in managing administrative processes
• Ability to understand the big picture and acquire new skills
• Negotiation skills and adaptability to changing situations
• Willingness and enthusiasm to work with volunteers and student representatives in administration

What we consider beneficial:

• Student union or NGO experience
• Experience in university administration
• Knowledge of students’ rights
• Proficiency in Swedish 
• Familiarity with Aalto University and its fields of study
• Knowledge of legislation and good governance principles relevant to the job description
• Interest in university pedagogy

• Knowledge of national education policy

We provide:

• A versatile and challenging position where you can implement your ideas and develop your expertise
• The support of a skilled team in a dynamic and enthusiastic work community within a youthful organisation
• Excellent opportunities for professional development alongside your work 

• Flexible working hours

The employment relationship is permanent and full-time (37.5 hours/week). Salary is determined according to the collective agreement of the student unions (salary category III, basic salary €2499/month, plus applicable education and experience allowances). The AYY office is located in Otaniemi, Espoo, with excellent transport connections. The position offers partial remote work and may occasionally include evening work and business trips.

Interviews will initially be held between 23 and 27 March, and the position will begin in April or as otherwise agreed. 

Applications with CVs must be submitted by 22 March to rekrytointi(at)ayy.fi. We will confirm receipt of your application. During the application process, we will review applications and contact the referees of the selected candidates. Please include the contact details of your referees in your CV or application already at the time of application.

Executive Director Antti Ilmavirta (+358 50 329 1165, antti.ilmavirta@ayy.fi) provides further information about the position until the end of the application period.

Aalto University Student Union AYY is an advocacy and service organisation for more than 18,000 students. AYY employs approximately 40 people, and our student union includes hundreds of volunteers and associations. AYY is a young and innovative operator in the student union field, where you can implement your own ideas and create something new. AYY’s work environment is modern and highly flexible. We believe that diversity enriches our work community, and we welcome applicants from different backgrounds, including various age groups, genders, languages, cultures, and minority groups.