We have an exciting opportunity here at Wokingham Borough Council, for a Political Assistant to support the Leader of the Labour Group, as well as the other members of the Labour Group, on a part time, fixed term basis. Fixed Term Contract – to May 2027 (Legislation requires the appointment of Political Assistants to be for a fixed term period. Reappointment will be considered in May 2027). This is a fixed term contract, however if the requirement for the contract ceasing needs to be sooner, due to political changes, then we will notify the employee in accordance with our contractual entitlements. This varied and interesting role will require the post holder to co-ordinate the Labour Group’s activities, maintaining effective communication throughout the Councillor Group, the Council, and the wider community. This will involve on occasions undertaking research for the Group, preparing reports, press releases and briefings as well as providing advice and support to all Labour Councillors on a variety of issues. You will also act as the Leader of the Labour Group’s Personal Assistant and be responsible for organising and managing Labour Group meetings. You will be highly motivated with exceptional communication skills working with a wide range of contacts including Councillors, Senior Officers, external bodies, the media and individuals. Candidate requirements You will need to be able to work in the strictest confidence, have sound judgement, assimilate and analyse data quickly and establish positive working relationships with Councillors and Officers. You will have good written, oral, IT and social media skills and an understanding of Labour Party policies and values. Knowledge of how local government works is desirable. Hours of work will include the requirement to attend meetings outside of normal working hours. This post is subject to political restriction in accordance with the Local Government and Housing Act 1989. Benefits Not only is this an excellent opportunity, but it’s a fantastic time to join our team. You will receive an extensive range of employee benefits including: ⭐ A generous annual leave entitlement of 30 days pro rata (rising to 35 days after 5 years continued local government service), plus Bank Holidays ⭐ Enrolment to an excellent local government pension scheme ⭐ An employee assistance programme, including 24/7 wellbeing helpline ⭐ A range of local & lifestyle discounts ⭐ Use of a free onsite gym (located at Shute End office) ⭐ Salary sacrifice car & cycle to work schemes ⭐ And much more Our Area Wokingham Borough is set in the heart of Berkshire with excellent transport links to Reading and central London. Our area comprises of a vibrant and historical market town, attractive villages, and miles of beautiful countryside. We’re home to a range of high performing schools including 69 primary and 21 secondary, a host of international businesses and an incredible community. We have a strong local economy with accelerated growth, a range of excellent public facilities and low levels of crime, offering an exceptional quality of life. Click the link below and apply today. Alternatively, if you would like to have an informal discussion about the role, please e-mail Councillor Rachel Burgess at priya.patelwokingham.gov.uk. Closing date: Sunday 15 th December 2024, 11pm Interviews: W/C 16 th December 2024 Whilst this is a fixed term contract appointment, for anyone already employed by Wokingham Borough Council this would be classed as a secondment if successful. Therefore, the usual permission requests for secondments apply and you must speak to your line manager in the first instance before applying. If your application is shortlisted for an interview, you will be required to provide proof of your right to work in the UK at that stage. Additionally, successful candidates must present proof upon receiving a job offer. Please note that all offers are conditional and subject to the satisfactory completion of pre-employment checks. Please be aware that we will be reviewing the applications we receive on a daily basis, and we reserve the right to close the advert early if suitable candidates are identified. Wokingham Borough Council is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and vulnerable adults and expects all staff, other workers and volunteers to share this commitment. Wokingham is an equal opportunities employer.