The newly elected Mayor of the West of England is seeking a dynamic, politically astute and strategically minded Political Assistant to support her in delivering on her priorities for the region.
If you are passionate about making a difference in the West of England, this offers a unique opportunity to work at the heart of regional politics. This is a fast-paced, multifaceted role focusing on political engagement, communications and policy analysis. You’ll act as a vital link between the Mayor, political partners, and the Combined Authority, working with the communications team to translate complex issues into clear, compelling messages for a range of audiences that enhance the region’s reputation.
You’ll thrive in a political environment and bring:
- A sharp instinct for political messaging and stakeholder management
- Excellent communication skills
- A strong understanding of local and national political landscapes
- Experience in policy, public affairs or political communications
This role will have terms and conditions required by Local Government Officers (Political Restrictions) Regs 1990. This is a politically restricted post under the Local Government and Housing Act 1989.
While you’ll be working closely with the mayor and supporting their political objectives, you are still an employee of the Combined Authority. This legal designation means:
- You cannot stand for election to Parliament, a local authority (other than a parish council), or similar elected offices.
- You must not hold formal office in a political party (e.g., chair, treasurer).
- You cannot speak publicly in a personal capacity on party political matters outside the scope of your job.
Interviews are planned to take place 16th -19th September - please note this may be subject to change.
These restrictions exist to maintain impartiality in public services while allowing you to operate professionally in a political role. Please take note that:
- Some evening and weekend work may be required
- The post is offered on a fixed term basis until June 2029 aligned with the Mayor’s political term
- We are open to accepting applications for job-sharing
About The Company
Our Offer
Alongside the opportunity to lead change, drive strategic initiatives, and make a real difference in the West of England, we offer an excellent benefits package including:
- 26 days annual leave, plus bank holidays, rising to 31 days after 5 years continuous or reckonable service. There is also the option to increase your annual leave with our annual leave purchase scheme.
- 1 day of paid leave each year to volunteer
- Local Government Pension Scheme with an employer contribution of 15.3%
- Flexible, family friendly and hybrid working options to ensure you achieve the best work/life balance and career goals. We follow a hybrid working model with typically 2 or 3 days in the office each week
- Reduced bus fare travel across the West of England
The West of England is an amazing part of the world to live and work. We are based in a new bright and airy office, with all the latest technology, close to Bristol Temple Meads Train Station.
We believe in fostering a culture of continuous learning and development, empowering you to thrive in your career. We prioritise your growth and success by providing a diverse range of learning and development opportunities. Our goal is to keep you motivated, equipped with essential skills, and confident in delivering excellent services.
Good Employment Charter
As a founding Member of the West of England Good Employment Charter and accredited Living Wage Employer, we’re committed to creating a diverse environment where all our employees can thrive. We make sure all qualified applicants receive consideration for employment and we particularly welcome applications from under-represented groups without regard to race, colour, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, or citizenship status.
Reasonable Adjustments
If you have an accessibility need, disability, condition or need any additional support that means you might require changes to the application or recruitment process (for example, you might need to submit your application in a different format), please get in touch with our Resourcing Team at Resourcing@westofengland-ca.gov.uk. We are here to assist and accommodate your needs.
Please note this vacancy may close early or be extended depending on the number of applications so please don’t wait to apply. If you have started your application, we’ll give you notice of the new closing date by email.
From a recruitment agency? We’re not engaging with agencies for this role. Any CVs received from agencies will be considered as unsolicited and the property of the West of England Mayoral Combined Authority, with no obligation to pay agency fees.