At a Glance
- Tasks: Support Conservative Group members with research, policy work, and media briefings.
- Company: Join the Local Government Association, advocating for Conservative Councillors across England.
- Benefits: Enjoy 29 days annual leave, flexible working, and professional development opportunities.
- Other info: Collaborative and inclusive environment with potential for contract extension.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in local government and shape future policies.
- Qualifications: Experience in policy roles and understanding of local government is essential.
The predicted salary is between 29700 - 36300 £ per year.
The Conservative Party controls over 60 local authorities and has around 3,500 Councillors across England.
Our job is to advocate and be the national voice for our Conservative Councillors, often working with our partners in the Conservative Party, CCHQ, the Shadow MHCLG frontbench team and the voluntary party to ensure the priorities of the Conservative local government team are understood.
In addition to this, the LGA Conservative Group is responsible for ensuring the priorities of the Conservative local government team are reflected in the operation of the LGA whether that be through our member led Policy Committees or through our sector led improvement offer.
As the Political Officer to the Conservative Group, you will be responsible for the following:
- Supporting Conservative Group members on our Policy Committees with research and briefings.
- Working to build our relationships with Conservative leaning think tanks.
- Lead on policy work including, bringing together best practice across our Conservative Councils and establishing the principles of what a future Local Government Act could look like for the next Conservative Government.
- Drafting articles and briefing the press under the direction of the Head of the Conservative Group Office.
- Other responsible duties discharged by the Head of the Conservative Group Office.
Please note, this is a 6 month contract only although there may be a possibility of extending that contract.
The position is required to support immediate delivery needs The organisation is consulting on its operating model The grade and responsibilities are subject to confirmation Priority consideration may be given to employees at risk where they have the required qualifications and experience, We use anonymous recruitment, which is the practice of hiding candidates' identities.
Our values & behaviours
- Collaboration - We value collaboration, to pursue shared goals by encouraging and utilising diverse perspectives and working with internal and external colleagues across the organisation.
- Inclusion - We value inclusion, where everyone feels valued, understood, and supported to contribute meaningfully.
- Ambition - We value ambition, reflecting our desire to achieve best possible outcomes for local government, communities, and individuals.
- Respect - We value respect, to ensure fairness, recognition, and shared accountability.
- Our benefits
- LGA annual leave entitlement is 29 days, rising to 31 days after three years' service and to 33 days after five years' service, plus all UK public holidays (pro rata for fixed term and part time contracts).
- Flexible & agile working - office-based staff are required to work in the LGA's London office two days per week as a minimum, subject to business need and this may vary significantly between different roles and from week to week.
- Future development - face-to-face and virtual courses are scheduled in line with developmental goals.
- The LGA offers 24/7 access to a free, confidential employee assistance programme managed by Health Assured. This service is also available for Dependants.
- Family friendly policies
The LGA are proud to be awarded a "Disability Confident Leader".
In the fast paced, ever-changing world of local government, we are looking for someone who has a flexible approach and someone who is able to work independently and within a small team.
You will be asked to demonstrate your understanding of working within a politically led environment.
Being politically astute and understanding discretion is an absolute must in this role.
In addition, we expect applicants to share the values of the Conservative Party and candidates in the recruitment process will be asked to share their thoughts on why they're a Conservative and why they believe it is critical to have Conservative run local authorities.
Experience working within parliament or in a policy role is desirable.
Understanding of the Conservative local government team is a must., Previous policy experience and an understanding of how Westminster operates alongside the role of think tanks in furthering our policy agenda on behalf of Conservative Councillors.
Bringing together policy projects and research briefings.
A sound understanding of local and/or central government and how they work, particularly the role of councillors.
Good communication skills, with the ability to accurately summarise and convey information, verbally and in writing.
Excellent organisational skills, with the ability to prioritise work to meet deadlines, maintaining order and accuracy.
Commitment to the values of the Conservative Party and why they believe having Conservative run local authorities in important.
About us
The Local Government Association (LGA) is the national membership body for local authorities.
We work on behalf of our member councils to support, promote and improve local government.
We are a politically led, cross-party organisation that works on behalf of councils to ensure local government has a strong, credible voice with national government.
We influence and set the political agenda on the issues that matter to councils to help them deliver local solutions to national problems.
The LGA Conservative Group is the second largest Group at the LGA and we're the national voice of Conservative Councillors.
We're often the first point of call for Conservative Councillors who require advice and support on a whole range of issues.
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Political Officer employer: LOCAL GOVERNMENT ASSOCIATION
The Local Government Association (LGA) is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment in Westminster where qualified lawyers can thrive. With a strong commitment to diversity and inclusion, the LGA provides generous benefits such as 29 days of annual leave, flexible working arrangements, and robust professional development opportunities, ensuring that employees are supported in their career growth while making a meaningful impact on local governance.
Contact Details:
LOCAL GOVERNMENT ASSOCIATION Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Political Officer
✨Get Engaged in Local Politics
Dive into your local council meetings or community boards. These spaces are packed with people who are already in the public sector and might have insider tips on upcoming temporary roles. Plus, you can connect directly with key decision-makers.
✨Stay Alert for Seasonal Recruitment
Many public sector jobs ramp up during certain times of the year, especially around election seasons or local budget planning periods. Keep your eyes peeled for recruitment drives during these windows, as they're prime times for temporary positions.
✨Leverage Online Job Portals
Don’t forget to check government job boards or websites like the local council's site for temporary postings. This is where many roles first get advertised, and applying directly here can speed things up.
✨Tap Into Your University Resources
If you're at university, make the most of your career services to discover opportunities in the public sector. They often have connections with local government employers who are looking for temporary staff and can help you polish your approach.
We think you need these skills to ace Political Officer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Emphasise your understanding of public policy:In your application, make sure to highlight any knowledge or experience you have related to public policy, governance or community engagement. Show us how you can contribute to the public sector’s mission, especially if you've worked on relevant projects or initiatives before!
Tailor your CV to the sector's expectations:When crafting your CV, focus on including experiences that showcase your ability to work within government structures or similar environments. Use clear, concise language and consider adding any volunteer work or internships that reflect your commitment to public service.
Show flexibility and willingness to learn:Since this is a temporary role, it’s crucial to convey your adaptability and eagerness to pick up new skills quickly. In your cover letter, let us know how you plan to make the most of this short-term experience and what you hope to learn from it.
Include relevant certificates and training:If you've completed any training or have certifications that are relevant to the role (like public administration, project management, or data analysis), don't forget to mention them. These can really make you stand out in the application process!
How to prepare for a job interview at LOCAL GOVERNMENT ASSOCIATION
✨Demonstrate Your Commitment to Public Service
In the government and public sector, showing that you're genuinely passionate about serving the community is key. Get ready to share examples where you've contributed to social good or tackled community issues, as this will resonate with interviewers from LOCAL GOVERNMENT ASSOCIATION.
✨Prepare for Policy and Regulatory Questions
Expect questions about policies, regulations, or recently implemented government initiatives. Brush up on the latest news relating to public sector developments—being informed will help you demonstrate that you're ready to hit the ground running, especially in a temporary role.
✨Flexibility is Your Best Friend
Since this is a temporary role, emphasise your ability to adapt quickly. Share examples where you've successfully taken on new challenges or adjusted to different team dynamics, that'll show LOCAL GOVERNMENT ASSOCIATION that you’re reliable and can effectively support various projects without a long onboarding process.
✨Prepare to Showcase Teamwork Skills
In the public sector, collaboration is vital. Be ready to discuss past experiences working in teams, especially in diverse environments. Highlight how you've contributed positively to group settings—this could really set you apart from other candidates in this temporary role.
