ASSEMBLY ASSISTANT / RESEARCHER

Job Description

• Liaising effectively with all sections of the media including political and specialist journalists, editors and other spokespeople for external organisations as appropriate
• Establishing personal networks/attending conferences
• Providing general admin support (typing, emails, phone calls, distributing mail, filing, photocopying, etc.)
• Retaining records and information confidentially and in line with GDPR
• Updating/maintaining databases
• Managing and monitoring incoming calls and enquiries
• Gathering relevant information to assist with resolving cases
• Providing information/advice to constituents on range of issues
• Drafting letters/correspondence/press releases
• Undertaking Assembly/constituency research
• Formulating Assembly questions
• Identifying local community groups/key contacts
• Managing and progressing portfolio of casework appropriately
• Ensuring enquiries are dealt with sensitively and confidentially
• Developing and implementing office systems/procedures
• Building relationships with business, community and other groups in constituency
• Liaising with Government agencies, voluntary sector and others to resolve constituency matters
• Attending surgeries, tribunals and meetings as appropriate
• Other duties as required in support of the MLA carrying out their Assembly duties

Essential Criteria

• 5 GCSE or equivalent including English (grade C or above)
• At least two years’ experience in a Constituency Office
• At least two years' experience working with Caseworker system
• At least three years’ experience of working in a political environment
• Experience of parliamentary business/processes
• High level of communication skills (oral/written/social media)
• Right to work within the UK
• At least two years’ experience of contributing to strategic planning in a workplace
• Proven previous experience of dealing with members of the public on the telephone and in person
• Demonstrate IT skills with significant experience in Microsoft office
• A Proven ability to work as part of a team and to work on own initiative with minimum supervision
• Ability to work flexible hours (including unsocial hours)

Desirable Criteria

• Upper level education
• Experience in speech writing
• Full UK driving licence