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- Tasks: Support committee chairs, manage meetings, and provide advice on council procedures.
- Company: Join a Local Council in Devon focused on democratic services and community engagement.
- Benefits: Enjoy hybrid working, flexible hours, and a negotiable hourly rate based on experience.
- Why this job: Gain valuable experience in local government while making a real impact in your community.
- Qualifications: Must have recent experience in Local Government within a Democratic Services role.
- Other info: Opportunity for contract extension and potential for remote work.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
We are proud to be partnering with a Local Council based in Devon, who are looking to appoint a Democratic Services Officer on a six month temporary contract, with opportunities to extend.
This will be a full-time position and remote based candidates are being considered. The hourly rate is negotiable dependent upon experience.
The ideal candidate will have experience in a Local Government setting in a Democratic Services based role
Duties will include (but are not limited to):
- Supporting the Chairs of the Committees through advice and briefings as well as supporting Democratic Services team on Member training and development
- Providing proper support to all elected member decision making meetings including advice on the Council’s Constitution in the order that they are conducted in with the Council’s Standing Orders and legislation
- Liaising with and deputising for the Legal and Democratic Services Manager and Senior Democratic Officer including attendance at meetings of the Council Executives as and when required
- Attending meetings as may be directed, taking comprehensive notes of the meetings and resolutions, production of draft minutes, as well as circulating draft minutes for agreement
- Giving advice on the interpretation of Standing Orders, the Members’ Code of Conduct and other constitutional and procedural matters
- Assisting the Senior Democratic Officer with maintenance and development of the Council’s online services including but not limited to; uploading committee agendas, reports, minutes and audio recordings
Experience required:
- Experience required in Local Government within a Democratic Services setting
Skills, knowledge and expertise required:
- Taking and timely distribution of accurate meetings minutes
- Providing full secretariat support
- Complex diary management
Rewards and Benefits:
- Hybrid working
- Flexible working hours
Working hours:
- 37 hours per week
- Monday – Friday, 9am-5pm but flexibility available
Please note that you require recent experience to apply for this role.
James Andrews is acting as an employment agency and business in relation to this role.
At James Andrews Recruitment Solutions we try to respond to all applications personally, however, due to the high volume of applications this is not always possible. If you have not heard back from us within 72 hours, please assume that your application has been unsuccessful on this occasion.
Don’t forget our recommendation scheme: Recommend a friend or colleague to us and receive up to £250 each once they have completed 20 days in a role via James Andrews! Terms and conditions apply, contact us for details.
Democratic Services Officer employer: James Andrews Recruitment Solutions Ltd
Contact Detail:
James Andrews Recruitment Solutions Ltd Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Democratic Services Officer
✨Tip Number 1
Make sure to highlight your experience in Local Government and any specific roles you've held in Democratic Services. This will show that you understand the unique challenges and responsibilities of the position.
✨Tip Number 2
Familiarize yourself with the Council’s Constitution and Standing Orders. Being able to discuss these confidently during an interview will demonstrate your preparedness and understanding of the role.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare examples of how you've successfully supported committee meetings in the past, especially regarding minute-taking and providing advice. Concrete examples can make a strong impression.
✨Tip Number 4
Network with professionals in the Local Government sector. Engaging with current or former Democratic Services Officers can provide insights and potentially valuable connections that could help you land the job.
We think you need these skills to ace Democratic Services Officer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Make sure to thoroughly read the job description for the Democratic Services Officer position. Understand the key responsibilities and required experience, especially in a Local Government setting.
Highlight Relevant Experience: In your application, emphasize your previous experience in Democratic Services or Local Government roles. Provide specific examples of how you've supported committee meetings, taken minutes, or managed complex diaries.
Tailor Your CV: Customize your CV to reflect the skills and experiences that align with the job requirements. Use keywords from the job description, such as 'secretariat support' and 'Standing Orders', to make your application stand out.
Craft a Strong Cover Letter: Write a compelling cover letter that explains why you are the ideal candidate for this role. Mention your understanding of the Council’s Constitution and your ability to provide advice on procedural matters.
How to prepare for a job interview at James Andrews Recruitment Solutions Ltd
✨Know Your Local Government Framework
Familiarize yourself with the local government structure and the specific roles within it. Understanding how democratic services operate in this context will help you answer questions confidently and demonstrate your expertise.
✨Prepare for Minute-Taking Scenarios
Be ready to discuss your experience with taking minutes during meetings. You might be asked to provide examples of how you've ensured accuracy and timeliness in distributing meeting notes, so have a few scenarios prepared.
✨Understand the Council’s Constitution
Brush up on the Council's Constitution, Standing Orders, and Members’ Code of Conduct. Being able to reference these documents during your interview will show that you are well-prepared and knowledgeable about the procedural aspects of the role.
✨Demonstrate Flexibility and Adaptability
Since the role offers hybrid working and flexible hours, be prepared to discuss how you manage your time effectively and adapt to changing circumstances. Share examples of how you've successfully navigated similar situations in past roles.
