• Advise and brief the MP on a wide range of business and international issues, in particular, as the Member leads inquiries at BEIS Select Committee, with particular focus on supply chains, maritime, AI, China and also Afghanistan.
• Be qualified to provide briefings on policy issues on China and UK business.
•Prepare speeches, research briefs, media notes, policy notes and external communications for the MP
•Undertake research on relevant subjects as directed
• Analyse, evaluate and interpret data to ensure Member is accurately informed on key issues relating to geopolitical interests
• Prepare and present briefing notes for committees, press releases, parliamentary questions, motions and amendments etc.
• Monitor local, regional and national media coverage and social media for foreign policy coverage and brief the MP on relevant content to geopolitical work
• Prepare geopolitical content for Twitter, LinkedIn, analyse how it performs
Person specification:
• Demonstrable knowledge and workplace-based experience in foreign affairs, particularly between China and UK foreign policy (ideally several years’ experience)
• Very strong research, analytical and writing skills
• The ability to work to tight deadlines and complete tasks at short notice in a high-pressure environment, with the potential for competing and rapidly changing priorities
• A detailed knowledge and keen interest in International current affairs, knowledge and understanding of a broad range of foreign policy, geopolitical and domestic policy issues
• A working knowledge of relevant legislation and upcoming Parliamentary business and the impact this will have on the MPs work/interests
• Comfortable with working independently, maintaining motivation with a proactive approach
• Highly organised, able to prioritise and manage a heavy workload
• Good communicator who can also work well as part of a small team
• The ability to maintain complete discretion and confidentiality
• Interest or knowledge of the Uyghur people and situation in Xinjiang or Afghanistan would also be advantageous.
The successful candidate will initially be offered a 12-month fixed term contract.
Upon appointment you will be required to apply for security clearance, undertaken by the Security Vetting and Pass Office. See Members’ Staff Security Clearance page for further info. MPs generally pay staff in accordance with IPSA guidelines.
We may appoint prior to the closing date. Interviews may be conducted remotely, if appropriate. Start date to be sometime in February, or early March.
N.B. Any applications received for the recently advertised 'Policy Assistant' role will also be considered as part of the process.