Political Officer (Green)

About Southwark Council

Southwark Council is a large, ambitious, and progressive local authority with a strong “can do” culture and a solid reputation for delivery. The council is focused on putting residents and local businesses at the heart of its work. If you want to contribute to meaningful change at a local level, this opportunity may suit you.

Role overview

Following the election of Southwark’s first Green Group of Councillors in May 2026, the Green Party now leads the council as part of a Joint Administration. The administration’s priorities for the next four years are to make the borough greener, safer, and more affordable.

The council is looking for a Political Officer to support the Green Group in delivering for local residents. As this is the first Green administration in the borough, the post will be central to helping newly elected councillors work through a fast-moving and demanding political environment. The role will support the shaping and delivery of a nationally significant policy agenda while making sure the Group follows through on its commitments.

This is a broad and fast-paced position that combines strategic policy support with day-to-day responsiveness. The role includes preparing briefings, speeches, and forward-looking communications, handling reactive media responses, and improving the Group’s digital and online profile.

What the council is looking for

The ideal candidate will be politically aware, flexible, and exceptionally well organised, with the confidence to balance strategic thinking and quick decision-making. You should be comfortable in an environment where priorities can change rapidly and should bring a steady, practical, and solutions-led approach when working under pressure.

Discretion and sound political judgement are essential. The role also calls for strong communication skills and confidence when working with elected members, senior officers, and external stakeholders. You will need to manage competing priorities effectively and provide tailored support to multiple councillors.

Most importantly, the council is looking for someone motivated by the chance to help deliver real and positive change for Southwark residents.

Benefits and additional information

The council wants staff to feel supported, challenged, and recognised. The benefits package includes family-friendly policies such as flexible working and home working, along with membership of the local government pension scheme. Additional staff benefits are also available.

You will join a motivated, committed, and supportive team with high standards and a strong focus on making a genuine difference to residents’ lives. You will also be part of a successful and high-performing development team.

Guaranteed Interview Scheme

As part of Southwark Council’s inclusion commitments, guaranteed interviews are available for people in specific groups, provided they meet the minimum criteria for the role. Eligible groups include:

• Members of the Armed Forces and veterans
• People who are currently in care, or who have previously been in care
• People who identify as disabled or who live with a long-term health condition

Diversity commitment

Southwark Council emphasises that diversity is essential to providing the best possible services to the community. The council is also committed to tackling racial inequality in both its communities and workforce through the Southwark Stands Together programme. Applications are especially encouraged from Black, Asian, and ethnic minority candidates to improve representation at senior management level.

Attachments

Political Officer (Green) - Job Description & Person Specification.docx