Policy/Research Advisor

Emma Sheerin MLA; Belfast; On-site; GBP 43,000; Part time

Job summary

A local political representative in Northern Ireland is seeking an experienced advisor to monitor Assembly events and provide detailed research briefings. The ideal candidate has a degree and at least two years of experience in a parliamentary setting, alongside a strong commitment to the organization's values. This role requires excellent analytical and communication skills, as well as a working knowledge of An Gaeilge.

Qualifications

• Degree (or equivalent) and two years' experience in a parliamentary advisory role.
• Thorough knowledge of the political landscape.
• Proven commitment to Sinn Féin’s values.
• Ability to analyse and communicate complex information.
• Working knowledge of An Gaeilge.
• Full driving license and access to a car.

Responsibilities

• Monitoring events in Assembly and briefing the MLA on potential questions.
• Conducting research and providing research briefings.
• Drafting speeches and briefing papers.
• Liaising with external groups and stakeholders.
• Preparing material for meetings and conferences.
• Advising on press strategy.

Skills

Degree or equivalent qualification

Two years’ experience in a parliamentary setting

Thorough knowledge of the political landscape

Analytical skills

Communication of complex information

Working knowledge of An Gaeilge

Full driving license

Education

Degree or equivalent qualification

Job description

Monitoring events in Assembly and ensuring the MLA is fully briefed on potential questions and motions to be put to the House. Conducting research/providing research briefing. Developing knowledge in relevant legislation and policy. Developing Private Members' Bills. Preparing and developing motions and Assembly Questions.

Responsibilities

• Monitoring events in Assembly and ensuring the MLA is fully briefed on potential questions and motions to be put to the House.
• Reviewing professional publications/participating in professional societies.
• Drafting speeches/briefing papers.
• Conducting research/providing research briefing.
• Developing knowledge in relevant legislation and policy.
• Liaising with think-tanks, government departments and agencies, voluntary groups and other external groups.
• Providing rapid, accurate and detailed research on a wide range of devolved policy issues to deliver written and oral briefings as required.
• Preparing material for meetings/conferences.
• Identifying media/press opportunities and advising on press strategy.

Skills and Qualifications

• Degree (or equivalent qualification) and two years’ experience in a parliamentary setting in an advisory/ policy advisory role.
• A thorough knowledge of the political landscape.
• A proven strong commitment to Sinn Féin’s values.
• An ability to analyse and communicate complex information.
• A working knowledge of An Gaeilge.
• A full driving licence and access to a car.

Position details: Salary £42,348 per annum; Location Parliament Buildings, Stormont, Belfast; Area Belfast; Vacancy ID 1742373; Contract Type Temporary; Weekly hours 37.5; Published date 30/10/2025; Closing date 12/11/2025. Additional area notes: Area Derry or Londonderry with closing date 06 Nov 2025 and Area All of Northern Ireland with closing date 07 Nov 2025.