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Political Advisor
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Job Description
Suffolk County Council
Address: Endeavour House, Ipswich, Suffolk IP1 2BX, on-site working
Salary: £34,434-£40,777 per annum (pro rata if part time)
Hours: 37 hours per week, flexible working options available
Contract: Fixed term under the Local Government and Housing Act 1989. The appointment will terminate at the first meeting of the next four-year term of the County Council (20 May 2030)
Your Role And Responsibilities
This is an exciting and influential role for someone with a passion for politics, public service and communications. As Political Advisor, you will provide strategic advice, policy research and communications support to the Reform UK Group, supporting Members in analysing complex issues, developing policy positions, and making informed decisions as the Council’s majority political group. From preparing high-quality briefings and analysing emerging policy developments to supporting media engagement and social media activity, you will be at the centre of political decision-making within one of the largest local authorities in the country. Working closely with elected Members, senior officers and external stakeholders, you will help ensure the Group is well-informed, effectively coordinated and able to champion its priorities on behalf of Suffolk residents. No two days will be the same, offering a unique opportunity to influence local government policy, respond to emerging challenges and contribute to the future direction of Suffolk.
You will need
- A strong understanding of politics, public policy and the role of local government.
- Excellent research, analytical and problem-solving skills with the ability to interpret complex information.
- Outstanding written and verbal communication skills, including experience producing briefings, reports or public-facing communications.
- Political awareness, sound judgement and the ability to operate confidently in a politically sensitive environment.
- Experience building productive relationships with senior stakeholders, elected Members or partners.
- Knowledge of media relations, social media and effective public communications.
- Strong organisational skills with the ability to manage competing priorities and tight deadlines.
- A proactive, resilient and self-motivated approach, with the confidence to work independently when required.
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You can view a full list of requirements in the Job and Person Profile (JPP), please see the how to apply section below. If you believe you can succeed in this role, apply. Even if you don't meet all requirements, still apply. We would appreciate the opportunity to consider your application.
The team
Suffolk County Council’s Democratic Services Team are at the heart of the Council’s democratic and decision-making processes. Working closely with elected Members, senior leaders and key stakeholders, the team plays a vital role in supporting effective governance, shaping policy discussions and helping deliver positive outcomes for communities across Suffolk.
For more information
Please contact Nigel Inniss for a casual conversation. You can reach them by calling 01473 264236 or emailing nigel.inniss@suffolk.gov.uk
How To Apply
Step 1 - Read the Job and Person Profile (Word).
Step 2 - Click ‘Apply Now’ to start your online application.
Step 3 - Upload a supporting statement answering the following questions below (no more than 400 words per question). You should use the Supporting Statement template (Word).
- Tell us about a piece of policy, research or project work you have undertaken. How did you identify the key issues and present your findings?
- Tell us about a situation where you had to build effective working relationships with senior stakeholders, elected members, or external partners. What approach did you take?
- Tell us about a time when you contributed to media, communications or public-facing messaging. What was your role and how did you measure its effectiveness?
Step 4 - Upload a CV (without name and personal details).
Please note: Without a supporting statement and CV, your interest will not be progressed. Any supporting documents must be in either PDF or MS Word format.
For guidance on completing your application, please see our How to Apply page.
Planning to use Artificial Intelligence (AI)? Please ensure your application still reflects your own skills, experience and ideas. If used inappropriately, your application may not be processed. Please read our guidance for using AI to understand what’s acceptable.
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Do you need any reasonable adjustments to help you to apply? If you are disabled and/or have additional support needs, you can request reasonable adjustments. You can do this by contacting our Recruitment Team at recruitment@suffolk.gov.uk or 03456 014412. You can find examples of possible adjustments on our Reasonable Adjustment pages.
Closing date: 11.30pm 20 July 2026.
Week commencing: 27 July 2026.
This authority is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) checks or police vetting will be required for relevant posts.
About Us
As a modern and effective council, we offer a wide variety of careers to suit people with a range of skills, abilities and ambitions. We offer working options that flex to reflect the way people work today and take the time to understand and support your individual needs. We’re driven to make a positive difference to the world around us and encourage everyone with drive and focus to join us and build an influential and impactful career. Reimagine the possibilities.
In return, you’ll enjoy:
- up to 29 days annual leave entitlement (pro rata), plus UK bank holidays and two paid volunteering days
- membership of a competitive Local Government Pension Scheme (LGPS)
- travel, lifestyle, health and wellbeing benefits
- performance-related annual pay progression, in addition to an annual cost-of-living pay increase
- training and encouragement to expand your knowledge
- a variety of career development opportunities across our organisation
- diverse and active staff networks
- flexible working options, with the right to request flexible working from your first day
Plus lots more!
If you want to know more about our benefits, values and equality commitments please visit our Suffolk County Council careers website (careers.Suffolk.gov.uk).
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