Group Support & Development Officer - Conservative Group

Kirklees Metropolitan Council; Huddersfield; On-site; GBP 30,000 - 40,000; Full time

Job summary

Kirklees Metropolitan Council is seeking a Group Support & Development Officer to enhance support for the Conservative Group of Councillors. This role involves relationship management, research and policy development, and adhering to political neutrality. Come join a dedicated team committed to making a difference within the local government framework.

Qualifications

• Ability to work in a political environment.
• Respect for confidentiality in a political context.
• Proactive planning to meet targets and deadlines.

Responsibilities

• Co-ordinate and provide support for Conservative Group Councillors.
• Produce media releases and liaise with the media.
• Attend Council and Group meetings.

Skills

Political neutrality

Relationship management

Research and policy development

Job description

Are you passionate about local politics?

Each of the three largest political groups are supported by a Group Support & Development Officer.

We currently have an exciting and rare opportunity to be involved in the provision of advice, support and development to the Conservative Group of Councillors on Kirklees Council.

In the role, you will develop and maintain strong professional relationships with the Group Leader, Deputy Group Leader, Group Business Manager and members of the wider political group. You will be responsible for ensuring they receive support and advice to carry out their roles effectively.

You will co-ordinate, provide or commission research and policy development for, and on behalf of, the political group. You will work with political parties nationally, regionally, and locally whilst maintaining political neutrality as an officer of the Council.

You will provide dedicated advice and support for the group around key events throughout the municipal year e.g. Council meetings, budget meetings etc. to ensure that they are able to contribute effectively to such events. This may involve producing media releases, liaising with the media, and producing speeches.

To carry out the role, you will:

Work effectively in a political environment and manage the interface and relationships with Councillors;

Respect and understand sensitivity and confidentiality in working with politicians and in a political context;

Take a proactive approach to ensure that work is planned to meet targets, standards and deadlines;

Work flexible hours, including occasional evenings and weekends and travel to various locations to carry out the duties of the post. There will be a requirement to attend Conservative Group meetings, usually held once a month on a Monday evening and Council meetings, held approximately every 5 weeks on a Wednesday evening

Interviews will take place on Wednesday 10th & Thursday 11th September 2025

Deborah Nicholsonis the manager for this role, please contact them on 01484 221000 for an informal discussion, or if you need any more information.

We know there’s a wealth of talent among people who have a disability and we encourage applications from people with all differing abilities. So, if you need any supportcompleting an application form, or any other format for the application or Job Description please contact the Recruitment Team for help by email:[e-mail] phone: [phone] and ask for ‘Recruitment’.

We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of vulnerable adults and children and young people and expect all staff and volunteers to share this commitment.

Closing date

31 August 2025, 11:55 PM

To apply please click the Apply Now link below.