Lexington Communications, Manchester’s leading public affairs consultancy, is looking to recruit an intern to join our team.

This is a rare opportunity to join a team of industry-leading political experts and the successful applicant will gain an invaluable insight into the public affairs industry. Our consultants work across a range of accounts relating to property development, including from the residential, retail, energy and transport sectors. Lexington is also closely engaged with Manchester’s growth as England’s leading devolved centre of decision-making, opening up a diverse portfolio of clients.

Candidates must be politically astute, with practical knowledge or experience of local politics, as well as having an interest in and understanding of national current affairs.

The ideal candidate would have:

• 2:1 degree or better (or working towards a degree)
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office, including Word and Excel
• A keen eye for detail
• Excellent writing skills
• Personable telephone manner
• Good time keeping and organisational skills
• An ability to follow instruction carefully

Experience of working or volunteering in the political arena, such as for a political party, Government Department, Local Authority or MP, would be a distinct advantage, as would an understanding of Local Authorities and the emerging devolution agenda.

This internship provides the opportunity to develop core public affairs consultancy skills, with responsibilities including:

• Political research and media monitoring
• Engaging with residents and community stakeholders in written correspondence, on the phone and face-to-face
• Day-to-day drafting of a variety of documents, including research reports, communications materials, press releases and meeting reports
• Supporting new business development activities of the wider team
• You may also be required to assist with general office support tasks when required, with duties including:
• Managing incoming and outgoing postage
• Answering telephones and referring calls to appropriate office contact
• Liaising with third party suppliers
• Providing support for event organisation
• General office duties, including scanning, photocopying, laminating, binding, etc

The internship will last for three months.