Strategy and performance adviser x2

Strategy and Communications Strategy and Communications sits at the centre of the organisation, bringing together several teams with organisation-wide remits and mutual collaboration opportunities. The work of the directorate rsquo;s teams includes delivery of major events; designing and leading public affairs and marketing campaigns; providing data, evidence and analysis; leading cross-organisational programmes; and making sure we plan for, and can respond to, emerging events and emergencies in our city. About the team This is an exciting opportunity to join a collaborative and committed team that is responsible for supporting the Deputy Mayor for Fire and Resilience in their oversight of London Fire Brigade (LFB); and for coordinating and contributing to policies that relate to the safety of Londoners. You will have the opportunity to develop relationships across the GLA and LFB. You will also develop an insight into the operations of one of the world rsquo;s busiest fire services; and explore how these operations intersect with other parts of the GLA. LFB, and the fire sector as a whole, is undergoing significant and wide-ranging transformation. LFB is in the process of responding to the recommendations of the Grenfell Tower Inquiry, and inspections from His Majesty #39;s Inspectorate of Constabulary and Fire Rescue Services; and making improvements to its culture. As it makes improvements to its culture, it is critical that LFB is properly supported in navigating this change. More widely, LFB is working to meet challenges posed by climate change, new technologies, and London #39;s complex built environment. About the role This role is part of an exciting team expansion. It is an opportunity to make a genuine contribution to the development of the team and its work programme. You will lead a portfolio of work relating to oversight and assurance of LFB and wider fire policy ndash; including support for the statutory Deputy Mayor for Fire and Resilience in their decision making and oversight role, and in policy and strategy development. A background in fire policy is not necessary for this role, due to its cross-cutting nature. We are recruiting for two roles with the same job description, but different responsibilities. One is focused on supporting the Deputy Mayor rsquo;s decision making; and the other will lead on performance and assurance monitoring. If you have a preference for one of these roles please indicate this in your statement. We are looking for people with excellent analytical skills and an ability to provide impartial advice. Just as important, however, is your ability to think creatively to develop shared solutions to problems, and to influence policy development in a political environment. What your day will look like * Providing advice to the Deputy Mayor for Fire and Resilience, and other senior stakeholders, on matters relating to fire and LFB. Preparing clear and concise reports, presentations and briefings on complex and sensitive issues for different audiences. * Working with LFB, the Deputy Mayor rsquo;s Office and the Head of Fire on key strategic delivery issues, identifying potential solutions to challenges. * Drafting reports on complex issues, and identifying suggested lines of questioning for corporate board meetings between the Deputy Mayor and the senior management team at LFB. These will look at strategy; budget and performance; the HMICFRS inspection programme; and work to deliver the findings of LFB #39;s independent culture review and the Grenfell Tower Inquiry. * Reviewing LFB proposals to ensure that strategy, policy, projects and programmes are developed with a solid evidence base, and value for money; and that they meet the Mayor rsquo;s strategic objectives. * Managing a programme of performance monitoring and assurance against LFB rsquo;s transformation and business as usual, using performance data; formal and informal meetings with senior LFB and external officers; and LFB reporting. Skills, knowledge and experience * A successful track record, in a high-profile organisation, of influencing and shaping policy and ensuring its implementation ndash; although not necessarily in fire and rescue. * Ability to draft detailed analysis of data and applied knowledge of both quantitative and qualitative research. * Experience of accountancy and/or financial and statistical analysis, and performance management. * A successful track record of providing high-quality, impartial advice in a sensitive political environment, at a senior level. * Experience of project-based work ndash; including planning and monitoring delivery against plans; and preparing clear and concise reports, presentations and briefings on complex and sensitive issues for various audiences. How to apply If you would like to apply for the role you will need to submit the following: * Up to date CV * Personal statement with a maximum of 1500 words. Please ensure you address how you demonstrate the essential criteria and person specification outlined in the advert. Please note all applications for this vacancy must be submitted via our online recruitment system. We do not accept CVs alone for this role. Please upload a personal statement to the lsquo;Additional Documents rsquo; section of the form. Word or PDF format preferred and do not include any photographs or images. Please ensure your CV and personal statement documents are saved with the job reference number as part of the naming convention (E.g. ldquo;CV ndash; applicant name - (phone number removed)) Please note, if you do not provide both a CV and a personal statement, you will not be considered for the role so please ensure the above has been submitted before the deadline