Job description

3 months contract with local authority

Summary

The Senior Democratic Services Officer plays a crucial role in supporting the Principal Democratic Services Officers in managing Committee and Democratic Services functions. This position is vital for ensuring the smooth operation of Council and Committee meetings, decision-making processes, and independent appeals. The role involves producing an annual work program, supporting service delivery reviews, and contributing to the modernization of the council's democratic processes. The officer ensures robust decision-making through timely agenda publication, report and minute production, and effective use of committee management systems.

Responsibilities

Compile, draft, and publish meeting agendas.
Support democratic and scrutiny projects, drafting and presenting reports as needed.
Attend meetings and accurately record decisions through minute-taking.
Communicate and publish Committee decisions, ensuring follow-up actions are completed.
Manage and maintain Committee work programs, arranging meetings and briefings.
Advise on Council policy, procedures, legislation, and governance.
Provide clerking for the statutory independent panel process for appeals.
Stay informed on legislative changes and best practices impacting democratic services.
Promote stakeholder consultations and strengthen relationships with organizations and residents.
Support the Electoral Services Team with elections, referenda, and electoral registration.
Perform other duties as required by the Head of Democratic and Member Services.

Requirements

Qualifications:

English Language to 'A' Level standard or equivalent.
Mathematics at GCSE level A to C grade or equivalent.

Knowledge & Skills:

Awareness of current local government issues.
Knowledge of local government law, procedures, and the role of Members.
Understanding of the Council’s organizational structure and democratic processes.
Effective communication skills, both oral and written.
Ability to compile agendas, reports, and minutes in clear English.
Strong organizational and time management skills.
Ability to prioritize workloads and maintain high-quality service under pressure.
Proficiency in maintaining administrative systems.

Experience:

Experience in local authority Committee administration.
Experience drafting minutes and formal communications.
Experience in document organization and research/report writing.
Experience working with Councillors and senior Council officers.
Familiarity with the Council’s decision-making processes.
Experience leading projects independently.

Desirable Knowledge, Experience, and Skills:

Qualifications:

ICSA, B.Tec Higher National, DMS, ADSO, or equivalent qualification.

Knowledge & Skills:

Proficiency in MS Word and Excel.

Experience:

Experience in Committee Administration.
Experience with webcasting and streaming meetings.
Familiarity with Modern.gov and reports management systems.

Additional Information

Must be able to travel across the borough.
Available for evening meetings weekly and work outside traditional hours as needed.
This post is politically restricted.

Date of Approval: 15/08/2022

Approved By: Steve Fox (Head of Democratic and Member Services)

Senior Democratic Services Officer