Head of the General Secretary’s Office and Political Affairs - Head Office - Ref 976

The Union of Shop, Distributive and Allied Workers is one of the UK's largest trade unions.

A vacancy exists for Head of the General Secretary’s Office and Political Affairs based at the Union’s Head Office.

There are no set hours for this position. The postholder will be expected to be adaptable and flexible to meet the needs of the job, which will include working outside of normal office hours and travelling to any part of the UK which may involve overnights at short notice.

A Union car will be provided, and applicants must hold a valid driving licence and are required to live within 50 miles of Head Office.

This is an exciting and diverse role for someone with experience of supporting a senior office-holder, managing a busy office and leading a team, alongside a sound understanding of the trade union and labour movement. Excellent organisational and communication skills, political awareness, sound judgement and discretion are essential.

What we Offer:

• Defined contribution pension.

• Income protection and life insurance

• Employee Assistance Programme (EAP)

• Subsidised canteen

• Enhanced family leave pay – Including maternity, paternity and adoption pay, above statutory entitlements.

• Generous holiday entitlement – 24 days rising to 32 days, plus bank and customary holidays, including time off between Christmas and New Year

• Company car and free onsite parking

• Cycle to work scheme

• Free health assessments

The Union does not currently offer sponsorship

Job Overview:

Working under the direction of the General Secretary, you will lead and manage the General Secretary’s Office, providing a comprehensive, proactive and highly confidential office management, administrative, co-ordination and political affairs service to support her in carrying out the responsibilities of her office.

You will ensure that the General Secretary’s priorities, programme, correspondence, meetings, information requirements and commitments are planned, co-ordinated and progressed effectively.

You will manage her inbox, correspondence, diary and forward work programme, exercising sound judgement and delegated authority to deal with, delegate or redirect matters appropriately, while identifying those requiring her personal or urgent attention.

The role includes providing political advice, research, briefings and practical support relating to the Union’s political priorities, the General Secretary’s role as Chair of TULO, the Union’s relationship with the Labour Party and the wider political, public-policy and trade union agenda.

You will also provide leadership and line management to the Central Officials’ Secretarial Team, ensuring effective secretarial and administrative support for the General Secretary and Central Officials.

Working closely with the Executive & Administration Officer, Central Officials, Heads of Departments, Regional Secretaries and other senior officers, you will ensure the effective co-ordination of matters affecting the General Secretary’s Office and the wider work of the Union.

How to apply:

The full job description can be downloaded from here by clicking on the ‘apply’ button. Alternatively, please e-mail [email protected] or telephone the HR Section on 0161 413 0904, quoting Ref: 976.

Applicants should submit their CV to [email protected]. 

No agencies please.

Usdaw is an Equal Opportunities Employer.

APPLY FOR THIS JOB