Catherine McKinnell is seeking to appoint a new Parliamentary Assistant, to support her role as the MP for Newcastle upon Tyne North; as a member of several Parliamentary Committees; and as an officer of a number of All-Party Parliamentary Groups (APPGs).

The full-time role, which will be in Catherine’s House of Commons office whilst the rest of her team are based in Newcastle, is primarily focussed on her key areas of interest in Parliament, and particularly – but not restricted to – her work as a member of the Treasury Select Committee.

The position requires flexibility from the post-holder as the demands of the role are determined in part by the Member's workload and the Parliamentary timetable.

Job Description

• Research and prepare accurate briefing notes and speeches on relevant policy issues, often to tight deadlines.
• Monitor relevant Parliamentary activity: legislation, motions, debates and questions, and act upon this where appropriate.
• Monitor media for any issues relating to Catherine's Parliamentary work.
• Develop and maintain knowledge in specialist areas as required by the Member.
• Communicate effectively with both internal and external contacts.
• Liaise closely with colleagues in the Newcastle constituency office to support Catherine's work.

Person Specification

• Educated to degree level.
• A keen interest in politics, current affairs and issues affecting Newcastle and the North East.
• Ability to work proactively and independently, as well as part of a small team.
• Excellent research, analytical and communication skills, with a keen attention to detail.
• Strong organisational skills, with the ability to work quickly and flexibly, prioritising and completing tasks in a timely fashion.
• Ability to remain discreet and maintain confidentiality at all times.
• Excellent IT skills, and knowledge of standard office practices.
• Sympathetic to the aims of the Labour Party.
• Previous experience of working in Parliament would be beneficial.