Deirdre Costigan MP is seeking a motivated Head of Office to lead her work across Westminster and Ealing Southall. Working with the MP, the successful candidate will provide strategic leadership, oversee the team and help deliver Deirdre's priorities in Parliament, the constituency and in her role as PPS to the Department for Business, Innovation, Science and Trade. This role would suit a self-starter with excellent judgement, strong political awareness and the ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment. The successful candidate will build strong relationships with stakeholders while ensuring delivery of the MP's objectives across Westminster and Southall.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage the work of the team across parliament and the constituency
• Develop and implement strategies for pursuing Deirdre’s objectives in Parliament and the constituency
• Horizon-scanning, anticipating what advice may be required, and proactively identifying challenges and resolving them
• Coordinate Deirdre’s activities in Parliament, working with the Parliamentary Assistant
• Lead on the management of a wide range of constituency campaigns and work streams
• Manage Deirdre’s diary and inbox correspondence
• Plan and attend meetings with organisations, ensuring Deirdre is well briefed
• Ensure Deirdre receives quality written reports and is accurately informed on key issues
• Maintain knowledge of relevant legislation, including the impact on Ealing Southall
• Monitor local, regional and national media coverage online and through social media and brief Deirdre on relevant issues

Person specification

• Direct experience of using parliamentary processes and procedures to get things done
• Strong political judgement and firm understanding of current affairs and UK politics
• Staff management or coordination experience
• Well organised and able to prioritise, plan and respond flexibly to what is required
• Strong verbal and written communication skills with an ability to speak to a variety of audiences
• Highly motivated individual who can manage and prioritise a demanding workload and meet deadlines
• Able to build relationships with key stakeholders
• Sympathetic to the aims and values of the Labour party and able to articulate its key policy positions and values

Desirable experience:

• Organising policy or political campaigns
• Press Liaison