Location
Westminster City Hall, 64 Victoria Street, Westminster, SW1E 6QP

Hours
28.8 hours per week (4 days)

Salary
£42,912 - £49,155 pro-rata per annum (actual salary £34,329 – £39,324 per annum). Salary negotiable depending on experience.

About the Role
As Research and Support Officer for the Leader of the Opposition, you will support a high-profile and driven group of councillors, helping them deliver on their ambitions. This early career-level role offers a unique introduction to policy and politics within an exceptional local authority. You will provide high-quality briefing, research, and casework assistance to ensure the Leader of the Opposition is well-informed on key council policies and delivery. Working within Governance and Councillor Liaison, you will engage with officers and services across the council, tackling a range of issues and ensuring trends and insights from casework are communicated effectively.

Your responsibilities will include commissioning and drafting briefings, speeches, and other materials, as well as providing seamless administrative and secretarial support. This includes managing the Leader’s diary, taking minutes, following up on agreed actions, and enabling them to focus on their role.

This permanent role offers flexible working arrangements in conjunction with your line manager and the opportunity to witness the inner workings of Westminster City Council, a place committed to inclusive and impactful public service.

Experience
Experience working with senior internal and external stakeholders, with confidence to build trust and communicate effectively at all levels. Experience supporting politicians or senior officers at Director level is advantageous.

About You
You understand the demands of working in a politically sensitive environment, demonstrating diplomacy and sound judgement in handling information and competing priorities. You have a good understanding of local government issues and can work independently using your initiative to conduct research, follow up cases, and provide flexible support.

You remain calm under pressure, manage deadlines effectively, and know when to seek support. You can sift through large volumes of information, challenge details where necessary, and horizon scan local and national issues relevant to the Council and Leader of the Opposition.

You are an excellent communicator, skilled at drafting reports and written materials, and building effective relationships within a team environment.

Qualifications
No specific qualifications are stated; however, a strong research ability, political awareness, and communication skills are essential.