Main duties

• Lead and maintain a highly professional administrative support function for the MP's office
• Collate all required information from team members to present to the MP
• Deal with security matters, keep abreast of security guidance, maintain the security system, liaise with external bodies as appropriate
• Ensure the office is fully equipped
• Horizon-scanning, anticipate what advice or action may be required; proactively identify problems and resolve them
• Identify training opportunities and ensure the office team maintain and develop knowledge of relevant legislation where appropriate
• Liaise with groups/personnel including at Westminster, within the constituency and the general public on the MP's behalf as necessary
• Manage the office team, ensuring accurate personnel records are kept and notifying IPSA of contractual changes as necessary
• Overall management of the Member's diary commitments, delegating tasks to others as appropriate
• Plan the MPs internal communications and external stakeholder engagement and provide strategic advice on constituent matters on behalf of the MP where appropriate
• Provide high quality, efficient and effective support to the MP and interest groups as required
• Responsibility for managing all aspects of the budget, keeping the MP informed of all relevant financial matters and liaising with IPSA on office finance
• Support and manage the recruitment of staff for the MP's office
• Flexibility to support, or travel to, the constituency office

Skills required

• Previous experience working as a Senior Administrator/Office Manager
• Excellent organisational skills and ability to prioritise a demanding workload to meet strict deadlines
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Good interpersonal skills with the ability to handle challenging situations
• Able to work independently and as part of a small team
• Strong awareness and understanding of current political issues
• Sympathetic to Liberal Democrat values

After 12 months Victoria may need to restructure her staffing arrangements in order to ensure the right balance between her constituency and Westminster offices.