At a Glance
- Tasks: Support Conservative Councillors in shaping policy and representing residents.
- Company: Milton Keynes City Council's Conservative Group, dedicated to community impact.
- Benefits: 28 days annual leave, pension scheme, family-friendly policies, and health cash plan.
- Other info: Confidential role with excellent career growth opportunities in local government.
- Why this job: Make a difference in local politics while developing your skills in a supportive environment.
- Qualifications: Degree level education or equivalent experience, with strong political understanding.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 € per year.
We’re recruiting a full‑time Political Assistant to support the Conservative Group at Milton Keynes City Council. You’ll work alongside Conservative Councillors and colleagues in Democratic Services, supporting group councillors in their democratic roles. This role directly supports elected councillors in shaping policy, preparing for decisions, and representing residents. You’ll provide trusted political, research, and communications support with tact, discretion, and professionalism in a politically sensitive environment. The role is politically restricted under the Local Government and Housing Act 1989.
Expected to work from the designated workplace.
Interviews for this role will be held on 9 June.
Main Responsibilities
- Supporting the Group Leader with the development of the Group’s strategic direction and monitoring progress against priorities.
- Providing high‑quality political research, analysis, and briefings to support councillors.
- Preparing guidance notes, questions, motions, and briefing material to support decision‑making processes.
- Supporting councillors with casework activities, within agreed direction and appropriate boundaries.
- Drafting written material, including press releases or speeches for senior Councillors.
- Building effective working relationships with councillors, colleagues, and external stakeholders, including other elected representatives on a regional basis.
The Ideal Candidate
- Educated to degree level or equivalent experience.
- Strong understanding of local government and the political environment.
- Experience working with elected councillors or senior stakeholders in a confidential setting.
- Ability to work with tact, diplomacy, and sound judgement at all times.
- Membership of the Conservative Party or views consistent with the aims and values of the Conservative Group.
- Confident information technology skills, including Microsoft Office.
Package Description
- 28 days annual leave (plus public holidays), increasing to 32 days after five years, with a holiday purchase scheme allowing up to 5 additional days per year.
- Local Government Pension Scheme.
- Family‑friendly policies including enhanced maternity, adoption, and paternity support, and a childcare subsidy.
- Health cash plan, low‑cost bike purchase scheme, and discounts on entertainment and travel.
- Salary sacrifice car scheme for low‑emission vehicles.
- Blue Light Card discounts for social care employees.
Political Assistant - Conservative Group in Milton Keynes employer: Milton Keynes City Council
As a Political Assistant with the Conservative Group at Milton Keynes City Council, you will be part of a dynamic and supportive work environment that values professionalism and discretion. The council offers excellent benefits, including generous annual leave, a Local Government Pension Scheme, and family-friendly policies, ensuring a healthy work-life balance. With opportunities for personal and professional growth, this role allows you to make a meaningful impact in local governance while working closely with elected representatives and contributing to the community.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Political Assistant - Conservative Group in Milton Keynes
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in your circle who might have connections in local government or the Conservative Group. A friendly chat can lead to valuable insights and even job leads.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for those interviews! Research the Conservative Group's recent initiatives and be ready to discuss how you can contribute. Show them you’re not just another candidate, but someone who’s genuinely interested in their work.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your communication skills. As a Political Assistant, you'll need to convey ideas clearly and professionally. Try mock interviews with friends or family to get comfortable with articulating your thoughts.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to engage directly with us.
We think you need these skills to ace Political Assistant - Conservative Group in Milton Keynes
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to highlight how your skills and experiences align with the role of Political Assistant. We want to see how you can support our Conservative Group and contribute to shaping policy effectively.
Showcase Your Research Skills:Since this role involves providing high-quality political research and analysis, be sure to include examples of your research abilities in your application. We love seeing how you can gather and present information that supports decision-making.
Demonstrate Your Communication Skills:As you'll be drafting written materials like press releases and speeches, it's crucial to showcase your communication skills. Use clear and concise language in your application to reflect your ability to convey messages effectively.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website for a smoother process. This way, we can easily track your application and ensure it reaches the right people in our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Milton Keynes City Council
✨Know Your Political Landscape
Before the interview, brush up on local government structures and current political issues in Milton Keynes. Understanding the Conservative Group's priorities and recent developments will show your genuine interest and help you engage in meaningful discussions.
✨Prepare Relevant Examples
Think of specific instances where you've supported decision-making processes or worked with elected officials. Be ready to share these examples, highlighting your ability to provide high-quality research and analysis, as well as your experience in a politically sensitive environment.
✨Demonstrate Tact and Discretion
Since this role requires working in a confidential setting, be prepared to discuss how you've handled sensitive information in the past. Emphasise your ability to maintain professionalism and discretion, especially when dealing with casework activities.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
As a Political Assistant, you'll need to draft materials like press releases and speeches. Bring samples of your written work if possible, and be ready to discuss your approach to crafting clear and impactful communications that resonate with various stakeholders.
