About the role

I was elected in May 2026 to represent the Highlands and Islands, Scotland's largest parliamentary region. The people here face a distinct set of challenges: depopulation, a shortage of housing, centralised healthcare, inadequate infrastructure, and renewable energy projects reshaping rural and coastal communities — alongside the enduring concerns of fishing and farming.
I'm looking for a bright, driven Parliamentary Researcher to join my team and help me stand up for them. It's a rare chance to get involved at an early stage across all of my work, in Parliament and across the Region, with real scope to grow and progress over the five-year term.

What you'll do

You'll start by supporting me across three areas, and take on more as you find your feet:

Research:

• Dig into the policy, legislation and issues that matter to the Highlands and Islands, and get to grips with the facts and figures behind them
• Turn that into clear, accurate briefings and speaking notes for the chamber and beyond

Communications:

• Draft press releases, articles and social media posts, and help run my Facebook and Instagram
• Help with local campaigns and day-to-day media enquiries

Parliament:

• Draft parliamentary questions, motions and debate contributions
• Support the smooth running of my office and, as Reform's Parliamentary Business Manager, the group's business and Whips Office.

About you

Having done this job myself at Holyrood, I know that raw talent, drive and a genuine desire to learn count for far more than a polished CV. I'd happily take on someone with real ability and train them up.

I expect parts of this role to be new to whomever I appoint, what matters is the ability to pick things up fast. You might be an ambitious graduate or early-career professional looking to work at the heart of Scottish politics.

What I'm looking for:

• A sharp mind and the ability to learn quickly
• Strong writing, and a feel for turning detail into a clear argument
• Drive, initiative and sound judgement
• A real interest in politics, current affairs and the Highlands and Islands

Desirable, but not essential:

• A strong connection to, or knowledge of, the local issues in the Highlands, Moray or the Islands
• Familiarity with video editing or graphics software (e.g. Adobe) — though a willingness to learn is enough