Job Title:
Policy and Research Assistant
Location:
Belfast City Centre
Duration:
Fixed term basis for an initial period of 24 months with a possible extension for an additional 12 months
Job Summary:
We are seeking two Policy and Research Assistants to join our client's Policy and Communications Team in Belfast. The successful candidates will play a key role in shaping the team's work, particularly in relation to a Department of Justice programme over the next three years.
Duties and Responsibilities:
* Conduct desk-based qualitative and quantitative research and other evidence gathering as necessary to develop the client's policy position on issues relating to enabling access to justice.
* Assist in analysing and interpreting quantitative and qualitative data to identify key policy issues and trends to evaluate the impact of existing policies.
* Assist in the preparation of succinct, accurate and timely written briefings for senior colleagues on policy positions of interest and relevance to enabling access to justice.
* Contribute to the preparation of initial drafts of consultation responses and calls for evidence in a manner that enables timely review, meeting deadlines and with a high degree of attention to detail.
* Collaborate with external stakeholders and internal colleagues to maximise the development of effective and policy positions in relation to enabling access to justice.
* Complete administrative tasks associated with the work of the Policy and Communications Team, such as updating activity logs, updating stakeholder lists and consultation logs.
* Attend internal and external events and meetings on behalf of the Policy and Communications Team relating to enabling access to justice, contributing appropriately and reporting back.
* Stay updated on relevant legal and policy developments in this jurisdiction and in neighbouring jurisdictions and brief the Policy and Communications Team accordingly.
* To undertake any training courses deemed necessary or useful by the client in relation to the effective discharge of the role.
* The employee will adhere to the Information Security Management systems employed by the Executive Council.
Essential Criteria:
* Educated to degree level with an award of 2:1 or above in a relevant discipline e.g. law, politics, social sciences or equivalent professional experience gained within a period of three years.
* Demonstrable knowledge of Northern Ireland's government and policy making structures.
* Demonstrable understanding of current research methodologies, statistical and analytical techniques, including qualitative and quantitative techniques.
* Demonstrable knowledge of the legal and justice sectors within Northern Ireland or an interest in developing knowledge and understanding in the legal and justice sectors.
* At least six months experience in a policy/research role or equivalent gained through academic study undertaken within the last three years.
* Demonstrable experience in using data and other information to understand and interpret complex issues to determine actions required.
* Demonstrable experience in using electronic databases, open-source information and hard copy materials to inform research and policy and policy positions.
* Demonstrable experience in undertaking research that informs policy development, strategy planning and government consultation/call for evidence responses.
* Demonstrable experience in the preparation of briefing papers.
* Demonstrable use of latest versions of Excel, Power Point, MS Office and survey software.
* Ability to maintain focus and motivation on long term projects in a demanding and pressured work environment.
Desirable Criteria:
* Training/qualification/module in research methodologies and/or statistical, analytical techniques, consultation and engagement techniques.
* Experience of providing briefing materials to senior managers and leadership team.
* Demonstrable experience in working with others inside and outside of an organisation in a policy development capacity.
* A knowledge of the legal and justice sectors and the public policy issues that influence it.
* Experience of organising high quality events for political and other stakeholders.
Skills and Competencies:
* Excellent written and oral communication skills, including the ability to cut through to the essentials on complex policy issues.
* High level of attention to detail and accuracy.
* Organised and able to prioritise and manage workload in a systematic way.
* Ability to work under coordinated direction but taking initiative when required.
* Ability to absorb information quickly and react equally quickly to produce quality responses.
* Ability to work under pressure and to meet deadlines.
* Ability to work collaboratively.
* A willingness to support work which promotes access to justice, the rule of law and the independent referral Bar.
* An ability to observe confidentiality and respect sensitive information.
* A knowledge of the legal and justice sectors and the public policy issues that influence it.
* Experience of organising high quality events for political and other stakeholders.