At a Glance
- Tasks: Support Conservative Councillors in shaping policy and providing political research.
- Company: Milton Keynes City Council's Conservative Group, dedicated to community representation.
- 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 real impact 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.
Site‑Based role: Expected to work from the designated workplace.
Interview date: 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
- In addition to your salary, we offer a range of benefits including:
- 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 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 role offers excellent benefits, including generous annual leave, a Local Government Pension Scheme, and family-friendly policies, all while providing opportunities for personal and professional growth in a politically engaging setting. Join us to make a meaningful impact in local governance and community representation.
Contact Details:
Milton Keynes City Council Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Political Assistant - Conservative Group
✨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 seen by the right people. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take that extra step to engage with us directly.
We think you need these skills to ace Political Assistant - Conservative Group
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the Political Assistant role. Highlight your experience with local government and any relevant political work, as this will show us you understand the environment you'll be working in.
Showcase Your Skills:We want to see your strong research and communication skills shine through. Include examples of how you've supported decision-making processes or worked with senior stakeholders in the past. This will help us see your potential impact on our team.
Be Professional and Tactful:Since this role involves working in a politically sensitive environment, it's crucial to demonstrate your ability to handle confidential information with discretion. Use your application to convey your professionalism and sound judgement.
Apply Through Our Website:Don't forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it makes the whole process smoother for everyone involved.
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 will help you tailor your responses and show that you're genuinely interested in the role.
✨Prepare Relevant Examples
Think of specific instances where you've supported decision-making processes or worked with elected officials. Be ready to discuss how you handled sensitive information and maintained professionalism in challenging situations.
✨Showcase Your Research Skills
Since the role involves providing high-quality political research and analysis, prepare to demonstrate your ability to gather and present information effectively. You might be asked to analyse a recent policy or provide insights on a current issue, so practice articulating your thoughts clearly.
✨Build Rapport with Interviewers
During the interview, focus on building a connection with your interviewers. Ask insightful questions about their work and the group's strategic direction. This not only shows your interest but also highlights your ability to foster effective working relationships, which is crucial for this role.
