Reference: 98588
Date Added: 12 February 2026
Closing Date: 6 March 2026
Job Title: Senior Parliamentary Assistant
Working For: Catherine Atkinson MP (Derby North)
Location: London
Salary: In line with IPSA pay scales
Length of Contract: Permanent
Job Details
Catherine Atkinson, MP for Derby North, is looking for an enthusiastic and responsible individual to work in Westminster, ideally with experience of working in Parliament.
The team work on a hybrid basis so the successful candidate will need to adapt to this with the appropriate support provided. Flexible working hours will also be considered.
Flexibility to work on the occasional evening and weekend may be required, which will be compensated with time off in lieu.
Key responsibilities:
• Diary management for days the MP is in Westminster.
• Analyse, evaluate and interpret data to ensure the MP is accurately informed on key issues.
• Prepare and present results for the purposes of briefing notes for committees and parliamentary questions.
• 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.
• Progress casework as required.
• Research local, regional, or national issues to support the MP’s work.
• Deal with complex queries and complaints on MP’s behalf, including drafting letters.
• Undertake supervisory responsibility as required.
• Lead on project work as required.
• There may be a requirement for the role holder to work outside of normal working hours, e.g. attending events with the MP.
• Horizon-scanning, anticipate what advice or action may be required; proactively identify problems and resolve them.
• Maintain and utilise knowledge of relevant legislation, including impact on the local constituency.
• To produce and present high-quality written reports, briefing notes, and professional advice.
Essential criteria:
• A can-do and proactive attitude.
• Adaptable and ability to work to tight deadlines.
• Personable and able to communicate with people from all backgrounds.
• A high standard of written work.
• An interest in current affairs and policy issues.
• Excellent attention to detail.
• Previous parliamentary experience or other relevant experience.
• Sympathetic to the aims and values of the Labour Party.
Upon appointment you will be required to comply with the Baseline Personnel Security Standard, undertaken by the Members’ Staff Verification Office (MSVO). See Members’ Staff Verification Office (MSVO) page for further info. MPs generally pay staff in accordance with IPSA guidelines.
Closing Date: 6 March 2026
Interview/Start Dates
Interviews will be held on 16 March 2026 in Westminster. The start date will be as soon as possible after interview, to be agreed with the successful candidate.
Application Details
Applicants are invited to send:
• A cover letter explaining how you can fulfil this role and why you would like to work for Catherine, with brief details of your most recent experience.
• An up-to-date CV (max 2 sides).
• Contact details of two referees and confirmation of any notice period required by any current employer.
Please apply with the subject ‘Senior Parliamentary Assistant – YOUR NAME’ to sarah.russell@parliament.uk and please specify if you are interested in a full-time or part-time position.
Website: http://www.catherineatkinson.com