Job title Research Officer (part-time)

Key responsibilities

• Analyse, evaluate and interpret data to ensure Member is accurately informed on key issues
• Assist in writing external communications including speeches for the MP
• Attend and participate in meetings as appropriate
• Compilation of briefing packs for MPs, take notes of meetings and draft appropriate submissions
• Develop and maintain current knowledge on relevant areas of parliamentary business including
• Motions, legislation, Hansard, debates etc. This would include issues of importance both nationally and in the local constituency.
• Efficient data and file management to ensure the office complies with the data protection legislation
• Engage confidentially, professionally, with care and integrity with members of the public, through telephone enquiries, social media, email and face to face
• Exposure and management of complex cases, assist with casework as required
• Give advice on policy issues
• Help draft amendments for reports and prepare briefing material
• Maintain positive on-going relationships with all parties including members of the public, groups, stakeholders, Westminster an Ulster Unionist Peers, MLAs & Cllrs, where required
• Monitor local, regional and national media coverage and brief the MP on relevant issues
• Monitor social media activity and report any relevant trends to the Office Manager/MP
• Prepare and present briefing notes for committees, press releases, parliamentary questions etc.
• Progress casework as required
• Project Management
• Project Work
• Provide generalist admin support
• Respond to routine correspondence and enquiries
• There may be a requirement for the role holder to work outside of normal working hours and travel for work occasionally
• To advise and ensure the MP is fully briefed on potential questions and motions to be put to the House
• Undertake research on relevant subjects as directed
• Work with colleagues in communications/casework to identify potential impacts from the research work and disseminate them effectively

Essential skills

• Experience of working in a busy office environment.
• Time management
• Experience of analysis the impact of the out working of policy and policy decisions.

Desirable criteria

• Experience of working in a political office, Westminster or Devolved Parliament or Assembly (minimum 2 years)