Fixed-Term Administration and Communications Officer

Owen Thompson MP is seeking an experienced individual to join his constituency team to assist with an increased level of administrative tasks due the coronavirus pandemic to support the office’s activity. This is a fixed term position for an initial 6-month period with a possible extension on review and would ideally suit an individual who would be able to start as soon as possible.

Hours: This is a full-time position (37.5 hours per week), however, flexible/part-time working may be available depending on the successful candidate’s circumstances. There may be a requirement for the role holder to work outside of the normal working hours and travel for work occasionally.

Salary: In line with IPSA pay scales outside London rates pro rata £21,529 – £23,397 dependent on skills and experience.

Location: Initially working remotely from home with a gradual easing into the Dalkeith constituency office as Scottish Government restriction lifting allows.

The successful candidate will be required to comply with the Baseline Personnel Security Standard, undertaken by the Members’ Staff Verification Office.

Requirements

• Open, handle and action email, post and social media enquiries. Respond to enquiries by telephone, e mail and social media, dealing with or passing on queries to another team members/MP as appropriate.
• Maintain positive on-going relationships with members of the public, organisations in Westminster and constituents. Liaise and engage with external providers and suppliers as and when required.
• Ensure all enquiries are dealt with in a timely manner.
• Ensure records are kept and information managed confidentially in line with the data protection legislation.
• Provide admin support including photocopying, filing, record-keeping and typing correspondence.
• Database and SharePoint entry using office software (e.g. Microsoft Office) ensuring all information is current and updated regularly.
• Diary management including assisting with surgeries and other meetings following up as appropriate.
• Handle administrative arrangements for all meetings. Advise and ensure the MP is fully briefed on all meetings.
• Minute taking and writing up.
• Assist with arrangements for events; this may include venue research and bookings; compiling and managing guest-lists; liaising with suppliers; providing on-the-day event support as required.
• Support the MP’s office and objectives through highly effective communication.

Essential skills and experience

• Ideally previous experience of working in an admin facing role, event planning and diary management.
• Strong organisation and time management skills with ability to prioritise to meet deadlines.
• Experience of working as part of a team as well as under own initiative, with the ability to manage own workload.
• Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, with the proven ability to produce a high
  standard of written work.
• Strong IT skills and a working knowledge of Microsoft Office applications.
• A professional, polite, and confident telephone manner.
• Educated to Higher/HNC level or ability to demonstrate equivalent experience.

Desirable experience

• Good local knowledge of the Midlothian constituency area.
• An interest in politics or experience of working in a political environment, public or third sector.

To apply please send a CV and covering letter, demonstrating your skills and experience of how you meet the requirements of the role, to Karen Green, Chief of Staff at: karen.green@parliament.uk

Closing date for applications is Thursday 12th August, 5pm – with virtual interviews expected to take place week commencing 23rd August 2021.