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Political Officer (Green)

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Southwark Council

2mo ago

  • Job
    Full-time
    Junior, Mid & Senior Level
  • Government & Politics
  • London

AI generated summary

  • You must be politically aware, adaptable, organized, calm under pressure, discreet, an effective communicator, and capable of managing competing demands while supporting multiple councillors.
  • You will support councillors with policy development, draft briefings and speeches, handle media responses, and enhance the Group's online presence.

Requirements

  • You are a politically aware, adaptable and highly organised individual, with the ability to think both strategically and on your feet.
  • You are comfortable working in a fast-paced environment where priorities can shift quickly, and you bring a calm, solutions-focused approach under pressure.
  • You understand the importance of discretion and have a strong sense of political judgement.
  • You are an effective communicator, confident engaging with elected members, senior officers and external stakeholders.
  • You are also a strong organiser, capable of managing competing demands and providing tailored support to multiple councillors.
  • Above all, you are motivated by the opportunity to play a key role in helping deliver meaningful change for Southwark residents.

Responsibilities

  • In May 2026, residents of Southwark elected the borough’s first-ever Green Group of Councillors on a manifesto focused on making Southwark more affordable and more green.
  • We are now seeking a Political Officer to support the Group in delivering for the residents of the borough.
  • You will play a central role in supporting new councillors as they navigate a challenging and fast-moving political landscape.
  • You will help shape and advance a nationally significant policy agenda while ensuring the Group delivers on its commitments.
  • This is a dynamic and varied role.
  • You will contribute to strategic policy development while also responding to emerging issues on a day-to-day basis.
  • Responsibilities will include drafting briefings, speeches and proactive communications, coordinating reactive media responses, and strengthening the Group’s digital and online presence.

FAQs

What is the main goal of the Political Officer role?

The main goal of the Political Officer is to support the Green Group of Councillors in delivering meaningful change for Southwark residents, particularly focused on making the borough greener, safer, and more affordable.

What skills are needed for this position?

Required skills include political awareness, adaptability, strong organization, effective communication, and the ability to think strategically while managing competing demands.

Will I be working alone in this role?

No, you will be part of a motivated and supportive team that strives for excellence and collaborates to make a real difference in the community.

What types of tasks will I be expected to perform?

Tasks will include drafting briefings and speeches, coordinating media responses, supporting councillors, and contributing to strategic policy development.

Is there a focus on diversity within the hiring process?

Yes, Southwark Council is committed to diversity and actively welcomes applications from members of Black, Asian, and ethnic minority communities to increase representation at senior management levels.

Are there benefits offered to employees?

Yes, benefits include flexible working, home working, access to a local government pension scheme, and various other staff benefits.

Is there a guaranteed interview scheme?

Yes, the council offers guaranteed interviews for specific groups of people who meet the minimum requirements for the role.

What type of political landscape will I be working in?

You will be navigating a challenging and fast-moving political landscape as the borough is under its first-ever Green administration.

What is expected of me when responding to emerging issues?

You are expected to respond swiftly and effectively to emerging issues each day, maintaining a calm and solutions-focused approach under pressure.

How does this role contribute to the council's overall mission?

This role contributes by helping the Green Group of Councillors successfully implement their policy agenda and commitments, ultimately improving the lives of Southwark residents.

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Southwark Council

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Government
Industry
1001-5000
Employees

Mission & Purpose

The Southwark skyline is an impressive sight. The incredibly diverse range of buildings, offices and social facilities make it a real mix of old and new. Extending from the River Thames into south-east London, Southwark encompasses some of the capital’s cultural hotspots, vibrant communities and acclaimed green spaces. Our central location provides excellent transport links making it a highly accessible area. We’re committed to making a real difference to the quality of life for local people, making the home environment cleaner, safer and more modern. Large-scale investment programmes are changing the face of the borough, and we’re working to ensure that this creates a fairer future for all in Southwark. We’re continually looking to support the growth of talent and to develop our workforce. So our employees are given the support, knowledge and opportunities they need to develop and deliver results that really improve the quality of life for our citizens. Personal development is embedded as a key part of our organisational culture with access to a wide range of training opportunities in addition to developmental work in local settings.