At a Glance
- Tasks: Support an MP's constituency activities and manage a busy workload with excellent customer service.
- Company: Join the team of Patrick Spencer MP, making a difference in local communities.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible hours, and a chance to impact people's lives.
- Other info: Fast-paced role with opportunities for personal and professional growth.
- Why this job: Gain valuable experience in public service and engage with diverse community issues.
- Qualifications: Strong organisation, administration skills, and a passion for helping others.
The predicted salary is between 21784 - 28069 £ per year.
Office of Patrick Spencer MP
Address: Framlingham Technology Centre, Framlingham, Suffolk IP13 9ZE
Salary: £21,784 – £28,069 actual per annum (£25,528 – £32,893 pro rata)
Hours: 32 hours per week, over 5 working days
Contract: Permanent
Reference: 0854
Patrick Spencer MP is seeking an Administrative Officer to join his team. This role is for 32 hours per week working five days, in the constituency office in Framlingham. This role would be ideal for someone who wants to build up their experience and a range of skills, and who is motivated by helping people in the community. A knowledge and geographical familiarity of the constituency area of Central Suffolk and North Ipswich is important.
This is a varied and rewarding role functioning at the heart of the constituency team. You will be organised, reliable and have excellent attention to detail skills alongside superb customer service skills. You will support the Member's constituency activities, be able to manage a busy workload, and build positive relationships with constituents, local organisations and stakeholders. You should be a willing, supportive member of the team on hand to proactively support colleagues and work openly and collaboratively. Confident using email, digital calendars, case-management systems and shared documents, and able to identify what requires routine handling versus specialist casework. Previous parliamentary experience is not a requirement. Relevant experience may come from public services, customer service, executive support or another demanding public-facing environment.
Your responsibilities:
- Manage diary, meetings, visits
- Attend constituency meetings as appropriate
- Prepare information and practical details for engagements
- Provide confidential administrative support and assist with surgeries and public events
- Triage enquiries and identify urgent, sensitive or safeguarding matters
- Respond clearly and compassionately by email, telephone and in person
- Support casework while maintaining confidentiality and data protection
- Support the task of regular constituent letters, new resident welcome letters, parish council articles
- Manage standard queries, as well as assisting on more complex cases from members of the public by telephone, email, social media or face to face
- Ensure records/information are kept and managed confidentially to comply with data protection legislation
- Follow up on social media comments horizon-scanning local issues and provide reports to the Member and the team
- Desirable - establish, monitor and update social media and the online presence in the constituency
- Desirable - produce online graphics for publicising/advertising surgeries etc.
What you will need:
- Excellent organisation, administration and customer service skills
- Strong attention to detail
- Desirable - experience of social media.
About us: Central Suffolk and North Ipswich is a constituency that combines the northern suburbs of Ipswich with the rural heart of Suffolk. It includes communities such as Kesgrave, Framlingham, Needham Market, Debenham, Claydon and Bramford, creating a diverse mix of suburban, market town and rural life. The constituency includes growing commuter towns alongside traditional villages and historic market towns. It has a strong agricultural heritage, farming and rural businesses play an important role in the local economy, making agriculture and environmental stewardship key aspects of the area. The constituency is known for its historic towns, medieval churches and strong local identity.
We will offer you: Working in an MP's constituency office is particularly interesting because it provides the opportunity to make a direct difference to people's lives. Constituency staff are often the first point of contact for residents seeking help with issues such as housing, healthcare, pensions or local services. The role is varied and fast-paced, requiring strong communication, problem-solving and organisational skills while engaging with a wide range of individuals and organisations. It also offers valuable insight into how government policy affects communities on a day-to-day basis, making it a rewarding opportunity for anyone interested in public service, politics and supporting local people.
Closing date: 12 pm, 14 August 2026. Interview date: 20 and 21 August 2026. Upon appointment you will be required to comply with the Baseline Personnel Security Standard, undertaken by the Members’ Staff Verification Office (MSVO).
Administrative Officer in Framlingham employer: Suffolk County Council
At Sendsory, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer dedicated to fostering a supportive and inclusive work environment for our team of Cognition and Learning Practitioners. Located in Ipswich, Suffolk, we offer competitive salaries, six training days per year, and the opportunity to make a meaningful impact on the lives of children with SEND. Our commitment to professional development and a child-focused culture ensures that every employee can grow and thrive while contributing to a nurturing educational setting.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Administrative Officer in Framlingham
✨Dive into Local Government Events
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✨Join Relevant Networks
Look for communities focused on public sector careers. Whether it’s local networking groups or online forums, connecting with professionals in the field can provide insider knowledge and opportunities that you won’t find on typical job boards.
✨Utilise Your University’s Resources
If you’re freshly graduated or still studying, make the most of your university's careers service. They often have exclusive partnerships with companies like Suffolk County Council and can help you get your foot in the door for these full-time public sector roles.
✨Stay Updated with Government Initiatives
Keep your finger on the pulse regarding new government projects and policies. Understanding current initiatives can give you a leg up in interviews, showing that you are informed and genuinely interested in making a difference in the public sector.
We think you need these skills to ace Administrative Officer in Framlingham
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 Suffolk County Council 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 Suffolk County Council
✨Get to Know Public Sector Values
Before your interview with Suffolk County Council, 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!
✨Prepare Real-Life Examples
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 Suffolk County Council.