Northern Ireland Assembly | Assembly Clerk
Northern Ireland Assembly | Assembly Clerk

Northern Ireland Assembly | Assembly Clerk

Full-Time 42000 - 60000 £ / year (est.) No home office possible
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At a Glance

  • Tasks: Lead and manage teams to provide high-quality advice on Assembly business and legislation.
  • Company: Join the Northern Ireland Assembly, a key institution shaping public policy and legislation.
  • Benefits: Gain experience in a dynamic environment with opportunities for professional growth and development.
  • Why this job: Be at the heart of political decision-making and make a real impact on society.
  • Qualifications: A degree or extensive experience in managing complex tasks and providing authoritative advice is required.
  • Other info: Expect a challenging role with tight deadlines and the chance to work with influential stakeholders.

The predicted salary is between 42000 - 60000 £ per year.

About the Role The Clerking business area in the Assembly directly supports Assembly business in the Chamber and in committees, including scrutiny and legislation. Assembly Clerks (Clerks) are responsible for providing advice, guidance and support for key functions of the Assembly, including the conduct of Assembly business, the development and passage of legislation and the work of the Assemblys Committees. Clerks lead the delivery of Assembly business, providing clear, accurate and concise written and oral parliamentary advice; often working in real time in a politicised and pressurised environment; and in the public eye. Clerks also provide advice to senior office holders of the Assembly including the Speaker, Deputy Speakers, committee chairs, Members, Clerk/Chief Executive, the Director of Parliamentary Services and Clerk Assistants. Consequently, excellent political understanding as well as outstanding judgement are essential requirements of the role, together with the ability to develop and maintain highly effective working relationships, particularly with party business managers (whips) and Members. Clerks are operationally responsible for the management and performance of their team, and are required to take key operational decisions in respect of same. The role of Assembly Clerk is both demanding and challenging, operating as it does in a highly pressurised and scrutinised environment, and frequently outside of normal business hours. Clerks may be rotated between any of the Assembly Clerk positions in the Bill, Business and Committee Offices. Core Responsibilities Clerks lead and manage small teams of staff (typically three to four staff) in order discharge their duties and responsibilities. The main duties and responsibilities of the post of clerk, working with their teams, are: Providing comprehensive and authoritative high-quality written and oral advice and guidance on a range of procedural, policy and legislative matters to inform key decision makers. This may include the provision of timely and accurate briefings to the Speaker, Deputy Speakers, committee chairpersons, committees, Members, the Assembly Commission, Clerk Assistants and senior management. Developing, managing and maintaining effective relationships with a diverse range of key stakeholders with competing views and priorities including Members, senior officials from Executive departments their public bodies, media and private sector and voluntary sector organisations. Providing advice and guidance to other Clerks and committees regarding scrutiny of cross-cutting issues, including budgets, Executive strategies, the Programme for Government and significant political issues, such as EU exit. Developing, managing and maintaining effective relationships with colleagues in other Assembly Commission services, including researchers, parliamentary reporters, lawyers, and communication specialists to ensure that the necessary expertise is utilised effectively to support procedural, policy and legislative decisions; and developing and maintaining effective relationships with colleagues in other parliaments, in order to share and apply best practice. Providing advice to senior officeholders including the Speaker, Deputy Speakers, Committees, Members, the Director of Parliamentary Services and Clerk Assistants on the passage of primary legislation (including the drafting of amendments) through the Assembly. The provision of this advice will be in accordance with procedural requirements and established precedent and requires the exercise of sound judgement. Organising, commissioning and undertaking research to inform scrutiny and/or policy development. Preparing requests for legal advice. Supporting Members to develop legislative proposals or amendments to legislation by providing procedural, policy development and/or drafting advice, and drafting instructions for legislative provisions. Supporting the Speaker and Deputy Speakers through the provision of immediate and authoritative procedural advice and guidance during plenary sittings of the Assembly. Developing and applying expertise across a range of clerking business areas, keeping up to date on new and emerging policies, legislation and relevant legal developments, and developing an understanding of their impact on the Assembly. Managing a very demanding and wide-ranging workload of complex tasks, often to be completed within tight deadlines and in accordance with service standards. The nature of issues may be uncertain or have to be dealt with in rapidly changing situations where accurate interpretation, judgement and political awareness is required. Preparation of briefing documents on complex issues for the Speaker, committee chairpersons and other clerks to support plenary, committee and legislative business. Managing and delivering complex, diverse and time-sensitive plenary tabling and laying services, in line with Standing Orders and relevant legislative provisions, to support and facilitate the Assemblys scrutiny role and plenary sessions. Clerking committee meetings or sub-committee meetings and providing support (including through the provision of impartial advice, guidance and written briefing) for chairpersons and deputy chairpersons at external meetings and events. Preparation of briefing papers, draft speeches, speaking notes, and press releases for committee chairpersons and others, and oversight of online and social media content. Planning and managing the committee stage of Bills, including providing advice and guidance to the committee on key issues (e.g. amendments and procedure), analysing evidence received and drafting an evidence-based report. Managing the scrutiny of secondary legislation by committees, with the provision of advice and guidance to Members. Planning and managing committee inquiries, including drafting scoping paper, terms of reference and inquiry/scrutiny plans, identifying key stakeholders, organising evidence sessions, analysing evidence and preparing detailed draft committee reports outlining the committees key findings and recommendations. Delivering presentations to external stakeholders on the work of the Assembly. Contributing to the planning and delivery of corporate and directorate projects, including where relevant leading or managing these projects in line with Prince 2 methodology. Project management of contracts, working closely with the Procurement Office and the IS Office. Leading, managing and developing a team, setting goals and performance targets, evaluating staff performance, and ensuring staff are developed to meet the needs of the Assembly. Quality assuring the work of staff to ensure compliance with legislation, Standing Orders and other procedural guidance in order to meet agreed service standards. Ensuring the best use of resources, including budgets and staffing, by setting, and monitoring the successful delivery of projects. Identifying opportunities to improve business processes and working with the IS Office to test and iterate software applications to support the management of Assembly business. Effectively using Microsoft Office and bespoke internal Assembly software systems and databases to carry out work. Managing information and records in accordance with established policies and statutory requirements. Complying with all of the Assembly Commissions staff policies and procedures including Equal Opportunities and Dignity at Work policies and procedures and all mandatory training requirements. Carrying out other duties that the Assembly Commission reasonably requires of you. Essential Criteria Applicants must, by the closing date for applications, have: 1. At least a primary degree, minimum 2:1 classification, in any subject and at least 3 years experience in each of the areas detailed at (a) (d). Applications will be considered from applicants with formal qualifications of an equivalent or higher standard to those stated. OR 2. At least 5 years experience in each of the areas detailed at (a) (d). (a) prioritising, planning and organising a very demanding and diverse workload of complex tasks and managing the resources available to ensure compliance with tight deadlines; (b) leading, managing and motivating a team of staff to ensure effective service delivery; taking personal responsibility for the delivery of high-quality results and for the improvement and development of both processes and people; (c) contributing directly* to the development or scrutiny of either public policy or legislation, or significant organisational policy at an organisational-wide level, including research or consultation and preparing recommendations for change or improvement to a decision-maker who you are accountable to; and (d) providing authoritative** and high-quality written and oral advice*** on complex or politically sensitive matters directly to elected representatives or to a Board (or equivalent senior management body). * contributing directly means you are directly accountable for the quality of the research/consultation and your recommendations to the body which has official responsibility for the development or scrutiny in question. ** authoritative means that the written and oral advice must be coming from you in a role where you are accountable to the decision maker for the quality of your advice (i.e. you are the authority for advising the decision maker). *** advice must be in respect of guidance or recommendations offered with regard to prudent future action by the decision-maker who is receiving the advice. Advice is not providing information or briefing.

Northern Ireland Assembly | Assembly Clerk employer: Northern Ireland Assembly

The Northern Ireland Assembly is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment where Assembly Clerks play a crucial role in shaping legislation and supporting democratic processes. With a strong emphasis on professional development, employees benefit from opportunities to enhance their skills while working collaboratively with diverse stakeholders in a politically vibrant setting. The Assembly fosters a culture of inclusivity and respect, ensuring that every team member's contributions are valued and recognized, making it an ideal place for those seeking meaningful and impactful careers.
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Contact Detail:

Northern Ireland Assembly Recruiting Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫

We think this is how you could land Northern Ireland Assembly | Assembly Clerk

✨Tip Number 1

Familiarize yourself with the legislative process and the specific functions of the Northern Ireland Assembly. Understanding how legislation is developed and scrutinized will give you a significant advantage during interviews.

✨Tip Number 2

Build relationships with current or former clerks or assembly staff. Networking can provide you with insider knowledge about the role and expectations, which can be invaluable in your application process.

✨Tip Number 3

Stay updated on current political issues and developments in Northern Ireland. Being well-informed will not only help you in interviews but also demonstrate your commitment to the role and its challenges.

✨Tip Number 4

Practice articulating your experience in managing teams and complex workloads. Be ready to discuss specific examples that showcase your leadership skills and ability to work under pressure, as these are crucial for the Assembly Clerk position.

We think you need these skills to ace Northern Ireland Assembly | Assembly Clerk

Political Understanding
Judgement and Decision-Making
Team Leadership
Stakeholder Management
Written and Oral Communication
Research and Analysis
Project Management
Time Management
Attention to Detail
Legislative Knowledge
Policy Development
Conflict Resolution
Adaptability in High-Pressure Situations
Microsoft Office Proficiency
Understanding of Parliamentary Procedures

Some tips for your application 🫡

Understand the Role: Make sure to thoroughly read the job description for the Assembly Clerk position. Understand the key responsibilities and essential criteria, as this will help you tailor your application to highlight relevant experiences.

Highlight Relevant Experience: In your CV and cover letter, emphasize your experience in managing diverse workloads, leading teams, and providing high-quality advice on complex matters. Use specific examples that demonstrate your skills in these areas.

Demonstrate Political Awareness: Given the nature of the role, it's crucial to showcase your understanding of political processes and your ability to navigate a politicised environment. Include any relevant experiences that illustrate your political judgement and relationship-building skills.

Craft a Strong Cover Letter: Your cover letter should clearly articulate why you are the right fit for the Assembly Clerk role. Address how your background aligns with the responsibilities outlined in the job description and express your enthusiasm for contributing to the Assembly's work.

How to prepare for a job interview at Northern Ireland Assembly

✨Understand the Role Thoroughly

Make sure you have a deep understanding of the responsibilities of an Assembly Clerk. Familiarize yourself with the legislative process, committee functions, and the political landscape in Northern Ireland. This knowledge will help you answer questions confidently and demonstrate your suitability for the role.

✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills

Since the role involves managing a small team, be prepared to discuss your leadership experience. Share specific examples of how you've motivated and guided teams in high-pressure situations, ensuring effective service delivery and quality results.

✨Demonstrate Political Awareness

Given the politicized environment of the Assembly, it's crucial to show that you understand current political issues and can navigate complex stakeholder relationships. Be ready to discuss how you've handled politically sensitive matters in the past.

✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions

Expect scenario-based questions that assess your problem-solving abilities and judgment. Think about past experiences where you had to make quick decisions under pressure, and be ready to articulate your thought process and the outcomes of those decisions.

Northern Ireland Assembly | Assembly Clerk
Northern Ireland Assembly
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