Rt Hon Valerie Vaz MP wishes to appoint a Parliamentary Assistant to work in her Westminster Office. The position requires a person who is highly organized and fully committed to providing support for a busy MP in a fast-moving working environment.

Brief summary of key responsibilities:

• Undertaking research
• Preparation of briefings, questions, speeches, Bills, press releases, web posts etc
• Monitoring current and future parliamentary proceedings, press and media, and keeping the MP advised and updated appropriately
• Develop and maintain working knowledge on relevant areas of parliamentary business including motions, legislation, Hansard, debates etc, and giving advice on policy issues
• Support the member’s participation in APPGs and other relevant bodies
• Dealing with correspondence and enquiries
• Assist with some casework, projects and communication with constituents
• Diary management

Candidates should have:

• Excellent research and analytical skills
• Efficient inter-personal and communication skills, both written and oral
• The ability to quickly assimilate and present data and information
• The ability to write succinctly and confidently
• Good organizational and administrative skills with the ability to prioritise tasks and to meet tight deadlines
• An ability to work independently and with minimum supervision
• Proficiency in using Microsoft Office and IT generally

Candidates will also be expected to be sympathetic to the aims and objectives of the Labour Party and show an interest in current affairs.

The postholder may also be required to work outside normal office hours and undertake occasional travel for work.