An opportunity for a Head of Office role has become available in Jamie Halcro Johnston MSP's office in the Scottish Parliament.

Responsibilities

• Oversight of research and communications output of the office.
• Keeping knowledge of policy areas and local issues up-to-date, with a focus on the Highlands and Islands region.
• Carrying out research projects.
• Speechwriting for parliamentary activities.
• Supporting and advising on parliamentary duties, such as committee work and parliamentary questions.
• Working with colleagues to coordinate effective communications with constituents and media.
• Obtaining and compiling relevant research documents from external bodies.
• Preparing and delivering regular briefings and updates.
• Analysing, evaluating and interpreting data and statistics.
• Acting in a supervisory capacity for the team and oversight of parliamentary office.
• Managing staff and reviewing their performance.
• Managing office budget in line with Members Expenses Scheme, Allowances Office and People and Culture Group.
• Peer-reviewing validity and quality of work to ensure accuracy
• Managing constituency accounts, premises and equipment.
• Overseeing health and safety and staff wellbeing.
• Ensuring office is kept up-to-date with its relevant legislative and compliance obligations.
• Ensuring all office research complies with data protection legislation and GDPR requirements.
• Checking for any updates to compliance related legislation and communicating changes to colleagues.

Requirements

• Familiarity with UK and Scottish politics and parliamentary procedures.
• Be a quick learner with the ability to multitask and work within tight timescales.
• Be a proactive problem solver with the motivation and resilience to adapt and deal with challenges.
• Evidenced research skills with the ability to communicate to a variety of audiences.
• Have analytical skills with the ability to identify and investigate trends while interpreting data.
• Be able to lead on areas of project work while developing new areas and methods of research.
• Excellent written communication skills.
• Have experience of managing staff with the ability to nurture and build effective teams.
• Be confident in managing budgets for staff resources and office provisions.