ACS (Association of Convenience Stores) is the voice of over 33,500 local shops across the UK. As the industry’s leading trade body ACS campaigns for a fair diverse grocery market, works with Government to promote responsible retailing of alcohol, tobacco and healthy foods; and works to reduce burdens on the industry across a number of areas.

We have an opportunity for a Public Affairs Assistant to support the Association’s work in this area. This job is ideal for a graduate with some experience of working in a political environment, a keen interest in policy development and an enthusiasm for working in a small team. This is the right role for a person who is at the early stage of their career in public affairs but is ambitious to take on responsibility and advance quickly.

The post will involve the following:

Monitoring key news, Government and Parliamentary developments, producing daily and weekly monitoring reports for internal and external audiences.
Support the Public Affairs team on the planning, preparation and running of ACS policy events.
Helping in the execution of campaigning activities.
Managing ACS political and other stakeholder contacts, handling correspondence and organising meetings and briefings.
Researching policy and its impact on our members through working with our Government Relations and Campaigns Committee and other key members.
Drafting submissions, letters and briefings to key political audiences eg civil servants, MPs, Ministers etc.
Attending meetings within the Association and representing the Association externally.
General Administrative support, including minute taking, to ensure the work of the Public Affairs Department runs smoothly.