Intern (Paid) - Local Campaigns, Top PR Agency, London, Great Benefits

Company Description:

Portland is an international communications consultancy trusted by some of the highest profile organisations, governments and individuals in the world with offices in Washington DC, New York, Singapore, Doha and Nairobi, as well as in London.

At Portland we never rest on our laurels; we constantly strive to improve our work and be at the forefront of the industry.

The team:

Portland’s Local expertise ranges from contentious planning applications and major infrastructure projects, through to community campaigns and stakeholder engagement.

As part of our work, we enable a number of the UK’s leading businesses and organizations to engage effectively with local communities and decision makers.

From advising on the practical implications of the devolution agenda, to the impact of new models of local service provision, our specialist team helps clients to understand emerging risks and opportunities in a rapidly evolving policy and political landscape.

The role:

• This role is within the Portland Local unit, our specialist, full-service local engagement unit
• From running major public consultation programmes around some of the UK’s biggest infrastructure projects to mapping the local impact of government policy, Portland Local enable clients to understand and communicate with local influencers and decision makers
• Our consultants have a passion for politics, grassroots campaigning and a keen understanding of the crucial role played by local stakeholders
• The intern will support the Local team in all aspects of our day to day work

Key responsibilities:

• Monitoring and providing analysis of local and central government proceedings
• Assisting with the production of political audits of local authority areas, helping clients to understand the local policy environment
• On the ground local campaigning activity, including local canvassing
• Assisting with media sell-ins on behalf of clients with local and national press
• Preparing draft political and stakeholder briefs for clients
• Assisting with the production of detailed research documents
• Assisting with event organisation and planning
• Undertaking research for new business proposals

Requirements

Qualifications, skills and competencies

You must

• You must have a Degree (with a minimum of a 2:2)
• Preference may be given to candidates who have at least a 2:1 degree or relevant research experience. Previous experience of public affairs research or a post graduate qualification in a relevant subject area would be an advantage
• Candidates with demonstrable experience of campaigning will be at an advantage, whether gained in a political party or NGO environment
• Have a good feel for stakeholder communications work
• Have the ability to conduct comprehensive analysis of information to tight deadlines ensuring accuracy and relevance
• Have the ability to present findings for publication clearly and accurately to a range of audiences
• Be confident in engaging directly with the public

What we offer in return

• We are committed to employee development and have an open doors culture where you will have the opportunity to learn from some of the most experienced people in the business. We regularly reward and promote success, and actively encourage staff to take on new challenges and responsibilities to aid progression.
• Our remuneration package also includes our competitive pension contributions, private healthcare life assurance cover, company contribution to gym membership, company parties, free daily breakfast and much, much more!
• In addition, every permanent member of staff that works at Portland is eligible for our industry leading quarterly bonus scheme and annual profit share. When Portland thrives, all of our people share in that success.

Unfortunately due to the high volume of applications we receive it is not possible to respond directly to all applicants, only to those whose candidacy is being pursued. In addition, the length of the recruitment process varies based on the vacancy needs. Traditionally, the process takes approximately 2-4 weeks. Therefore, your patience is greatly appreciated.