At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage the Secretary of State’s diary and coordinate high-level events.
- Company: Join the Northern Ireland Office, supporting key government initiatives.
- Benefits: Enjoy hybrid working, flexible hours, and generous annual leave.
- Other info: Opportunities for learning and development in a supportive environment.
- Why this job: Gain direct exposure to senior decision makers and impactful policy work.
- Qualifications: Strong organisational skills and ability to manage competing priorities.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
The Northern Ireland Office supports the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland in promoting Northern Ireland’s best interests and ensuring UK government responsibilities are effectively represented. This role sits at the heart of the Private Office and offers direct exposure to senior decision makers and the inner workings of a ministerial portfolio.
Responsibilities
- Manage the Secretary of State’s diary, with overall responsibility for all logistics, invitations and calendar appointments.
- Coordinate diary management with senior leadership and across Whitehall, ensuring smooth delivery of visits and events.
- Drive forward the Secretary of State’s policy agenda, ensuring steers and priorities are actioned clearly and in a timely way.
- Lead key Private Office functions such as write‑rounds and the ownership of a policy portfolio.
- Ensure compliance with transparency obligations and other statutory requirements.
Requirements
- Excellent organisational skills and attention to detail, with the ability to juggle a range of tasks effectively.
- Strong capability to manage competing demands and priorities while remaining calm under pressure.
- Positive work ethic, can‑do mentality and problem‑solving approach.
- Ability to build strong relationships with a range of stakeholders, both internal and external to Government, including senior civil servants.
- Confidence in working with senior stakeholders, including delivering difficult and complex messages.
Desirable Criteria
- An understanding of the Northern Ireland political system and the work of the Northern Ireland Executive.
- Previous experience in a Private Office and/or diary management.
Success Profile Behaviours
- Making Effective Decisions
- Communicating and Influencing
- Delivering at Pace
- Working Together
Benefits
- Hybrid working, with a minimum of 60% of working time in an office.
- Standard full‑time hours: 37 hours per week.
- Part‑time, flexible and job‑sharing working patterns available.
- Access to learning and development.
- Access to flexible benefits such as voluntary benefits, retail vouchers and discounts.
- Family‑friendly policies, including reduced hours or job share.
- Paid paternity, adoption and maternity leave.
- Free annual sight tests for employees who use computer screens.
- 25 days annual leave (increases to 30 days after five years of service).
- Public holidays.
- Season ticket advance.
We are a Disability Confident employer and are committed to providing everyone with the opportunity to demonstrate their skills, talent and abilities by making adjustments throughout the recruitment process and in the workplace.
Assistant Private Secretary and Diary Secretary in City of Westminster employer: Ministry of Justice
The Northern Ireland Office is an exceptional employer, offering a unique opportunity to work closely with senior decision makers while supporting the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland. With a commitment to employee growth through access to learning and development, flexible working arrangements, and a supportive work culture, this role provides a meaningful and rewarding experience in a dynamic environment. Additionally, the office promotes a family-friendly atmosphere and values diversity, ensuring that all employees can thrive and contribute effectively.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Assistant Private Secretary and Diary Secretary in City of Westminster
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We think you need these skills to ace Assistant Private Secretary and Diary Secretary in City of Westminster
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Relevant Experience:In the public sector, having experience in community engagement, policy analysis, or project management stands out. Make sure to showcase any previous roles or volunteer work that reflects your understanding of public service values and how they've shaped your career path.
Showcase Your Knowledge of the Sector:When you’re applying for a government role, it’s crucial to demonstrate your understanding of the current political landscape and public policies. Consider including articles you've written or relevant projects that underline your capability to engage with these concepts effectively.
Tailor Your CV to Reflect Core Competencies:Government positions often require a clear demonstration of competencies such as communication, teamwork, and problem-solving. Try to structure your CV to highlight these skills, using specific examples of how you’ve applied them in past experiences, ideally with quantifiable outcomes where possible.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to tell your story and convey your passion for public service. Discuss why you want to work for Ministry of Justice and how your values align with their mission. Be genuine and let your enthusiasm shine through—this can really set you apart from other candidates.
How to prepare for a job interview at Ministry of Justice
✨Get to Know Public Sector Values
Before your interview with Ministry of Justice, dig deep into their mission and values, especially how they align with public service and community impact. Understand the key policies or initiatives they are involved in – you’ll want to show that you genuinely care about serving the community.
✨Brush Up on Regulatory Knowledge
Brush up on the regulations, laws, and compliance standards relevant to the role you’re applying for. Since this is the government and public sector, they might throw technical questions related to policy frameworks or project management best practices that you'll need to navigate day-to-day.
✨Highlight Teamwork and Collaboration
The government sector thrives on collaboration. Be ready to discuss how you've successfully worked in diverse teams or involved stakeholders in your projects. Show us how you bring people together to get a common goal achieved – that's what public service is all about!
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Craft a few STAR (Situation, Task, Action, Result) stories that demonstrate your experience in similar roles. Whether it’s a project that made a difference in the community or a challenging situation you managed, be ready to express how your skills and experiences make you a valuable asset for Ministry of Justice.
