At a Glance
- Tasks: Support committees and meetings, providing procedural advice and administrative assistance.
- Company: Join a dynamic council team dedicated to enhancing local democracy and community engagement.
- Benefits: Enjoy hybrid working, flexible hours, and opportunities for professional development.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in local governance while building valuable skills and connections.
- Qualifications: Strong organisational skills, attention to detail, and experience in administrative roles required.
- Other info: Evening meetings are part of the role; ideal for those seeking a meaningful part-time opportunity.
The predicted salary is between 28800 - 43200 £ per year.
Hybrid with the agreement of the Head of Democratic Services with attendance at member level meetings required in person (main working location is the Civic Centre, Addlestone).
To provide effective and high quality support to committees and other meetings, the team, other colleagues and councillors. To provide procedural advice on allocated areas of work to officers, councillors and members of the public.
MAIN DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE POST
- To be the lead officer for a range of committees or panels (some of which may be discussing sensitive matters), undertaking tasks including (but not limited to) the preparation of work plans, agendas in line with statutory deadlines, action logs and minutes.
- To attend a range of meetings (most of which are in the evening) to provide administrative and procedural support and advice.
- To assist the team in its preparations for meetings or other duties not allocated directly to the postholder.
- To provide co-ordination and support for the council's non-committee-based decision making processes.
- To participate in the creation and delivery of the council's member training and development programme (including new member induction).
- To undertake research on a variety of topics.
- To draft briefing papers, reports and policies, and present them to members as appropriate.
- To provide constitutional advice and guidance to colleagues at all levels of the organisation, councillors and members of the public.
- To build and maintain effective working relationships, and support a variety of individuals with engaging with the democratic process including elected councillors, officers at all levels of the organisation, partner organisations and members of the public.
- To determine applications (such as to undertake charity collections), prepare and issue a range of statutory notices and licenses.
- To support (or lead on where appropriate) various other duties assigned to the Democratic Services team which might include but is not limited to complaints handling and reporting (including maintaining related policies and liaising with the ombudsman), petitions, member records, freedom of information requests and subject access requests.
- To comply with the council's data protection arrangements and maintain discretion.
- To maintain an up-to-date knowledge of local and national developments in local authority governance.
- To provide support to the council's response in the event of a civil emergency.
- To provide support for elections related duties, or other areas within the general level of responsibility for the role, as required.
Knowledge
Knowledge of the law and practices in which Democratic / Committee Services operates.
Skills and Experience
- Experience of carrying out a range of administrative tasks.
- Well-organised: able to work methodically and manage a range of competing deadlines.
- Attentive to detail.
- Excellent IT skills, including the ability to use general office software, and an ability to learn new systems quickly.
- Ability to develop and maintain constructive working relationships with a range of individuals including councillors, officers at all levels and members of the public.
- Good use of written English and ability to proof read.
- Ability to work within a team.
- Ability to work effectively under pressure and when managing competing deadlines.
- Ability to work under own initiative and contribute to the development of the team.
- Ability to work sensitively in a political environment.
- Experience of using moderngov committee management software.
- Experience of working in a Democratic or Committee Services type role.
- Experience of providing advice to a variety of individuals.
Administrator employer: Talent Dice Ltd
Contact Detail:
Talent Dice Ltd Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Administrator
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the local authority's governance structure and recent developments in democratic services. This knowledge will not only help you understand the role better but also demonstrate your commitment and interest during any discussions.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with current or former employees in similar roles. They can provide valuable insights into the day-to-day responsibilities and challenges, which can help you tailor your approach when discussing your suitability for the position.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your experience with administrative tasks and how you've managed competing deadlines in the past. Be ready to share specific examples that highlight your organisational skills and attention to detail.
✨Tip Number 4
Showcase your ability to work in a political environment by discussing any relevant experiences where you've had to navigate sensitive situations. This will illustrate your capability to handle the complexities of the role effectively.
We think you need these skills to ace Administrator
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant administrative experience, particularly in committee or democratic services. Emphasise skills like organisation, attention to detail, and your ability to manage competing deadlines.
Craft a Strong Cover Letter: In your cover letter, explain why you're interested in the Administrator role and how your background aligns with the responsibilities outlined in the job description. Mention specific experiences that demonstrate your ability to provide procedural advice and support meetings.
Showcase Relevant Skills: Highlight your IT skills and familiarity with office software, as well as any experience with moderngov committee management software. Provide examples of how you've successfully worked under pressure and maintained constructive relationships in previous roles.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting your application, carefully proofread all documents to ensure there are no spelling or grammatical errors. A well-written application reflects your attention to detail and professionalism, which are crucial for this role.
How to prepare for a job interview at Talent Dice Ltd
✨Know Your Committees
Familiarise yourself with the specific committees or panels you may be supporting. Understand their functions, recent discussions, and any sensitive matters they handle. This will show your preparedness and genuine interest in the role.
✨Demonstrate Organisational Skills
Be ready to discuss how you manage competing deadlines and organise your workload. Provide examples of how you've successfully handled multiple tasks in previous roles, especially in a fast-paced environment.
✨Showcase Your IT Proficiency
Highlight your experience with general office software and any specific tools like moderngov committee management software. Be prepared to discuss how you quickly adapt to new systems, as this is crucial for the role.
✨Emphasise Communication Skills
Since the role involves providing advice and support to various stakeholders, demonstrate your ability to communicate effectively. Share examples of how you've built relationships with colleagues, councillors, and the public in past positions.