Constituency and Communications Assistant

• Answering phone calls in the constituency office
• Undertaking casework and responding to general constituency enquiries on behalf of Claire Hanna MP
• Assisting with projects and campaigns in the constituency
• Liaising with government agencies, local authorities, third party organisations 
• Monitoring social media for casework, policy and general enquiries
• Responding to constituents and members of the public on policy and campaign matters.
• Updating the electorate on Claire Hanna's work in the constituency
• Establish, monitor and update a social media and online presence in the constituency.
• Produce online graphics, video content as well as publicising surgeries, news alerts and constituency updates
• Monitor media coverage, liaise with media, prepare press releases

Essential Criterial:

• A third level degree in politics, public relations, marketing, communications, journalism, or a related field (or an equivalent third-level qualification) OR minimum of two years in a similar role.
• High standard of verbal and written communication skills with experience drafting speeches, articles and press releases
• Strong understanding and experience of using social media platforms including TikTok, Instagram, X, LinkedIn and others.
• A good knowledge of key issues relating to South Belfast & Mid Down
• Good organisation skills, capable of dealing with heavy workloads, the ability to work to tight deadlines and complete tasks to a high standard at short notice
• Experience in managing public social media accounts, including content creation and scheduling.
• A strong understanding of the policy-making and legislative processes of the Northern Ireland Assembly, Westminster Parliament, and local councils.
• Good understanding of local political and government infrastructure
• Excellent IT skills including MS Excel, Access, PowerPoint and Word
• Positive understanding of the values and objectives of SDLP

Desirable Criteria

• Experience in event management, including venue selection, promotional material preparation, and on-the-day coordination.
• Experience preparing and submitting Assembly/Parliamentary questions or motions for elected representatives.
• Experience working directly with the media.