Lesley is looking to recruit a Parliamentary Assistant to assist her in her constituency office in Kirkcaldy. This position is to cover a period of maternity leave. We are looking for someone who has excellent research skills, attention to detail, experience of advising on policy issues and developing local campaigns. In addition, you will be highly organised, proactive, enthusiastic and able to deal with competing priorities with a strong focus on constituents needs.

For the length of the contract (an initial 9 months contract from the start of September 2018) this role will provide you with the opportunity to:

Key responsibilities include, but not limited to:

• Analyse, evaluate and interpret data to ensure Lesley is accurately informed on key issues both within her constituency and across Scotland
• Give advice on policy issues and national campaigns
• Develop and maintain current knowledge of parliamentary business and procedure
• Prepare and present parliamentary questions
• Project work and project management on various local and national issues including event organising and preparing materials for public dissemination
• Respond to routine campaign correspondence and policy enquiries from constituents
• Undertake research and present findings in a clear and concise manner
• Assist communications manager with research for press releases and articles
• Generate and update Lesley’s website with campaign and policy information

The ideal candidate will need:

• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Sound research and analytical skills with keen attention to detail
• The ability to prioritise a demanding workload, meet deadlines and work under pressure
• Excellent interpersonal skills
• Ability to show initiative and work independently, but be a vital member of a close-knit team
• A working knowledge of standard office practices and computer packages