Ashton Recruitment require 2 Policy and Research Assistants for our client based in Belfast. Position: Policy & Research Assistant Location: Belfast City Centre Duration: Fixed term basis for an initial period of 24 months with a possible extension for an additional 12 months Pay Rate: Salary on Request Hours of Work: 37.5 hours per week, Monday to Friday made up of 7.5 hours per day not including a 1-hour lunchbreak). You will help shape the work of the clients Policy and Communications Team, with a particular focus on a Department of Justice programme across the next three years. Your work will involve analysing data and statistics, reviewing existing research evidence, and working with colleagues and specialist associations to provide timely and high-quality policy positions and submissions. Your work will be data driven and using the best available evidence to represent the interests of the barrister profession and wider society in relation to enabling access to justice. Duties will include: 1.Conduct desk-based qualitative and quantitative research and other evidence gathering as necessary to develop the clients policy position on issues relating to enabling access to justice. 2.Assist in analysing and interpreting quantitative and qualitative data to identify key policy issues and trends to evaluate the impact of existing policies. 3.Assist in the preparation of succinct, accurate and timely written briefings for senior colleagues on policy positions of interest and relevance to enabling access to justice. 4.Contribute to the preparation of initial drafts of consultation responses and calls for evidence in a manner that enables timely review, meeting deadlines and with a high degree of attention to detail. 5.Collaborate with external stakeholders and internal colleagues to maximise the development of effective and policy positions in relation to enabling access to justice. 6.Complete administrative tasks associated with the work of the Policy and Communications Team, such as updating activity logs, updating stakeholder lists and consultation logs. 7.Attend internal and external events and meetings on behalf of the Policy and Communications Team relating to enabling access to justice, contributing appropriately and reporting back. 8.Stay updated on relevant legal and policy developments in this jurisdiction and in neighbouring jurisdictions and brief the Policy and Communications Team accordingly. 9.To undertake any training courses deemed necessary or useful by the client in relation to the effective discharge of the role. 10.The employee will adhere to the Information Security Management systems employed by the Executive Council. The duties and responsibilities highlighted in this Job Description are indicative and may vary over time. Post holders are expected to undertake other duties and responsibilities relevant to the nature, level and scope of the post held. Essential Criteria: Educated to degree level with an award of 2:1 or above in a relevant discipline e.g. law, politics, social sciences or equivalent professional experience gained within a period of three years. Demonstrable knowledge of Northern Irelands government and policy making structures. Demonstrable understanding of current research methodologies, statistical and analytical techniques, including qualitative and quantitative techniques. Demonstrable knowledge of the legal and justice sectors within Northern Ireland or an interest in developing knowledge and understanding in the legal and justice sectors. At least six months experience in a policy/research role or equivalent gained through academic study undertaken within the last three years. Demonstrable experience in using data and other information to understand and interpret complex issues to determine actions required. Demonstrable experience in using electronic databases, open-source information and hard copy materials to inform research and policy and policy positions. Demonstrable experience in undertaking research that informs policy development, strategy planning and government consultation/call for evidence responses. Demonstrable experience in the preparation of briefing papers. Demonstrable use of latest versions of Excel, PowerPoint, MS Office and survey software. Ability to maintain focus and motivation on long term projects in a demanding and pressured work environment. Desirable Criteria: Training/qualification/module in research methodologies and/or statistical, analytical techniques, consultation and engagement techniques. Experience of providing briefing materials to senior managers and leadership team. Demonstrable experience in working with others inside and outside of an organisation in a policy development capacity. A knowledge of the legal and justice sectors and the public policy issues that influence it. Experience of organising high quality events for political and other stakeholders. Skills and Competencies Excellent written and oral communication skills, including the ability to cut through to the essentials on complex policy issues. High level of attention to detail and accuracy. Organised and able to prioritise and manage workload in a systematic way. Ability to work under coordinated direction but taking initiative when required. Ability to absorb information quickly and react equally quickly to produce quality responses. Ability to work under pressure and to meet deadlines. Ability to work collaboratively. A willingness to support work which promotes access to justice, the rule of law and the independent referral Bar. An ability to observe confidentiality and respect sensitive information. A knowledge of the legal and justice sectors and the public policy issues that influence it. Experience of organising high quality events for political and other stakeholders. Ashton Recruitment is acting as an Employment Agency Skills: Policy Analysis Research and Information Gathering Research Policy Research Methodologies Legal electronic databases