Press and Research Officer Margaret McDougall MSP

You will conduct research on a range of issues and provide advice to the MSP on policy positions. You will draft press releases, liaise with the media and manage local media strategies. You will draft speeches, parliamentary questions, motions and general correspondence. You will also be responsible for managing the MSP’s web and social media presence, and provide general support to the office. This job will be based in Irvine or Paisley, with business days spent in the Scottish Parliament.

We are looking for someone who is organised, flexible and a good team player. You will have demonstrable research skills along with strong communication skills. Knowledge and understanding of the Scottish media is essential along with experience of working with journalists. You will need a good awareness of the Scottish political scene, with particular knowledge of the West of Scotland helpful. You will also have experience of new media, including website management.

For more information, a full job description can be found at www.margaretmcdougallmsp.org/vacancies

The closing date for applications is 12pm on 1 July 2011.

To apply, please email a covering letter, no more than one page of A4, with a CV to kate.finlay@scottish.parliament.uk

Please also enclose a document, in up to 500 words, on the following subject:

What are the main challenges facing the Scottish Parliament in the next five years?