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Public affairs consultant (research)

Public Affairs Consultancy Researchers gather, analyse and review relevant political, legislative and public policy information, and provide their public and private sector clients with advice about what resulting lobbying action is needed.

Applicants are likely to need work experience or an interest in politics to enter this field

Public affairs consultancy researcher job description: Typical employers | Qualifications and training | Key skills | Useful links | Find jobs and courses

Responsibilities of the job vary according to the size and sector of the employing organisation, but may include:

reviewing government reports produced by parliamentary working groups and select committees
reading daily House of Commons and House of Lords reports
analysing information produced by The European Commission, government departments, Hansard, non-government organisations (NGOs) and think tanks
studying previous civil service reports and research and committee papers
highlighting relevant matters to clients
responding to information requests in writing, by telephone or in person
organising and attending meetings
discussing relevant issues with clients
writing reports
assessing the impact of changes to legislation, policy or codes of practice.

Typical employers of public affairs consultancy researchers

large public affairs consultancies
communications companies
small specialist consultancies
policy departments in public relations, accountancy and law firms.

Vacancies attract intense competition. Opportunities are advertised in national newspapers, by careers services, specialist recruitment agencies and in publications such as PR Week, New Statesman, The House Magazine and Electus Select. Speculative applications are essential - the Directory of Political Lobbying, Vachers Parliamentary Companion, the Public Relations Consultants Association Yearbook and Hollis UK Press and Public Relations Annual Directory provide useful contact information.

Qualifications and training required

A 2.1in any subject is acceptable. A qualification in public relations, politics, government, public administration, social policy, business studies, management, European studies, international studies or law can be advantageous. Relevant postgraduate qualifications are also beneficial. Relevant work experience is almost always essential.