Location
Westminster

Hours
Full Time

Salary
£44,937 per annum

About the Role
Southwark Council is one of London’s most diverse and innovative boroughs, operating in a complex political, social and economic environment. Our democratic and political support functions ensure elected members are well supported, briefed and able to perform their roles effectively. This includes supporting meetings, correspondence, policy work, research and engagement with a wide range of internal and external stakeholders.

We are seeking a Group Support Officer to join the Labour Group Office on a 4-year fixed term contract. Reporting to the Political Officer, you will provide practical, organised and politically sensitive support to the Leader of the Group, Shadow Cabinet and wider Group members.

This varied support role involves organising meetings, preparing papers, taking minutes, coordinating follow-up actions and managing correspondence, briefings, schedules and records. You will support the flow of information between members, officers and external contacts, ensuring the smooth running of the Group Office.

This is not a routine administrative role. You will work in a dynamic political environment where priorities can change rapidly, information is often sensitive, and sound judgement is essential. Organisation, discretion and the ability to manage multiple tasks simultaneously are key.

Key responsibilities include:
- Supporting the Leader of the Group, Shadow Cabinet and wider Group members with meetings, briefings, correspondence and follow-up activity
- Organising internal and external meetings including preparation, minute taking and sharing actions or information afterwards
- Carrying out research and analysis to support policy development and Group priorities
- Producing clear reports, briefings and presentation materials for different audiences
- Working collaboratively with council officers, elected members, MPs, voluntary organisations, statutory bodies and community representatives as needed

Experience
- Carrying out research and analysis
- Writing reports, briefings or presentation materials for different audiences
- Supporting meetings, correspondence and follow-up activity
- Working collaboratively with colleagues, elected members or stakeholders
- Managing deadlines and delivering agreed pieces of work with minimal supervision

About you
You are organised, thoughtful and confident working in a political or public sector environment. You are flexible, discreet and able to use your initiative. You are comfortable handling confidential information and engaging with people at different levels.

You have a good understanding of current social, political and economic issues affecting local government and public services. You are skilled at interpreting information and producing clear, concise written material, especially on complex or sensitive topics.

You possess strong IT skills including word processing, spreadsheets and presentation software, and can effectively use technology to support the work of the Group Office.

Qualifications
There are no formal qualifications required for this role, but relevant experience and skills as outlined above are essential.