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Be a vital support to Local Democracy in Tower Hamlets – Political Advisor to the Mayor

• Are you a committed supporter of local democracy and local government?
• Do you enjoy working at the very centre of a high-profile, fast-paced political environment?
• Are you highly organised and a confident communicator who can manage sensitive information with discretion?
• Can you produce high-quality briefings, reports and communications at pace?
• Are you a confident builder of relationships with senior politicians, senior officers, partners, political groups and across the wider Council, with stakeholders and with the public?

The Role

As political advisor to the Mayor you will provide policy, administrative, and communications support and advice to the Elected Executive Mayor of Tower Hamlets Council. The Executive Mayor is responsible for setting and driving the Council's priorities through the Strategic Plan and Mayoral/Cabinet decision-making. The role will be wide ranging but will include; coordinating meetings, drafting briefings and preparing and reviewing reports. You will be taking a lead role in supporting the Mayor and Executive's ambitions for the borough and generally supporting the Council’s decision-making processes with particular reference to the most important strategies and policies that are presented to the Mayor/Cabinet for decision.

You will act as a key link between the Mayor and Executive with the most senior officers at the Council and external stakeholders and partners. The role involves working on sensitive and complex issues in a dynamic and challenging political environment.

What we are looking for

You will be an organised and proactive individual, able to manage competing priorities and meet tight deadlines. You will have strong written and verbal communication skills, and produce clear, high-quality materials.

You will be able to work independently, think critically and provide sound advice. Also be collaborative by nature and look to build good relationships with internal and external stakeholders, Members and officers.

Further Role Details:

• The job is primarily based at Whitechapel Town Hall, 160 Whitechapel Road, E1 1BJ.
• Regular evening work is required (and occasional weekend work may be required).
• Your work will almost entirely be based in the office at the town hall.
• Your political affiliations and interests will be discussed at interview
• The post is politically restricted.
• The role is for a fixed term up to 31 May 2030 but subject to annual review by the Executive Mayor.

Our Benefits

• Competitive salary.
• Local Government Pension Scheme membership.
• Generous annual leave: 29 days, rising to 33 with 5+ years’ service, plus bank holidays and 3 additional days at Christmas.
• Flexible and agile working to support work–life balance.
• Staff money-saving schemes (e.g., rent deposit loans, season ticket loans).
• Learning and development opportunities through our Learning Academy, with clear career development and leadership pathways.

Does the above role appeal to you? Can you bring strategic insight, passion and innovation? If so we want to hear from you.

If you would like an informal discussion about the role please contact the Head of Service matthew.mannion@towerhamlets.gov.uk in the first instance.

Benefits

Tower Hamlets is a truly unique borough at the heart of London – a place where history and innovation sit side by side. From the docks and markets that shaped the East End to the global business hub of Canary Wharf, we are proud to be one of the most dynamic, diverse, and ambitious communities in the UK. We are also one of the fastest growing and youngest boroughs in the country, offering unrivalled opportunities to make a real difference to people’s lives. Our residents are energetic, creative, and resilient, and our council is committed to delivering the best possible services and opportunities for them.

Our award-winning new Town Hall in Whitechapel provides a modern, flexible workplace for our staff, right at the heart of the borough and directly opposite Whitechapel Tube and Elizabeth line station. It is more than just a workplace – it’s a hub for collaboration, innovation and community, designed to bring out the best in our people.

As an employer, we put equality, diversity, and inclusion at the heart of everything we do. Our active Employee Network Groups celebrate and champion our workforce, helping to ensure that everyone feels a sense of belonging. Guided by our TOWER values – Together, Open, Willing, Excellent and Respect – we are building a positive, inclusive culture where colleagues can thrive.

At Tower Hamlets Council, you’ll find exciting challenges, supportive colleagues, and the chance to shape one of London’s most important and vibrant places. If you’re looking for a role where you can see the impact of your work every day, then Tower Hamlets is the place for you.