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- Tasks: Lead a team to manage governance processes and support local authority members.
- Company: Tripod is dedicated to enhancing local governance and community engagement.
- Benefits: Enjoy a hybrid working model with flexible hours and competitive pay.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in local democracy while developing your leadership skills.
- Qualifications: Experience in Democratic Services and knowledge of local government law required.
- Other info: Part-time and job share options available; evening meetings may be necessary.
The predicted salary is between 54000 - 72000 £ per year.
Tripod is looking for an experienced Head of Democratic Services to lead and manage a local authority's Democratic Services team. This is a leadership role involving oversight of governance processes, constitutional compliance, and member support.
Key Responsibilities:
- Provide expert advice on governance, decision-making, and statutory provisions
- Lead servicing of formal council meetings, committees, and working groups
- Maintain and regularly review the constitution and governance cycle
- Oversee member training and induction
- Manage and support a team, ensuring delivery of high-quality democratic services
- Draft and present briefing papers, reports, and policies to members
- Build strong relationships with councillors, officers, partners, and the public
- Monitor service performance and manage budgets
- Lead on Independent Remuneration Panel processes
- Support election duties and emergency response tasks as required
Requirements:
- Substantial experience in a Democratic Services leadership role or similar
- Strong working knowledge of local government law and governance practices
- Proven ability to provide confident, authoritative advice
- Exceptional organisational, written, and IT skills
- Ability to manage competing deadlines and work in a political environment
- Relevant qualifications such as ADSO Diploma/Certificate or equivalent
- Willingness to attend evening meetings and participate in election-related activities
Location: Addlestone
Rate: 30 per hour
Contract: Full-time, 37 hours per week (part-time and job share considered)
Duration: 3 months initially
Working Pattern: Hybrid (office attendance required for formal meetings)
Head of Democratic Services employer: Tripod Nursing
Contact Detail:
Tripod Nursing Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Democratic Services
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the local authority's governance structure and recent council decisions. This knowledge will help you engage in meaningful conversations during interviews and demonstrate your understanding of the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with current or former members of the Democratic Services team or local government professionals. Building these connections can provide valuable insights into the role and may even lead to a referral.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss specific examples of how you've successfully managed teams and projects in a democratic services context. Highlighting your leadership skills and experience will set you apart from other candidates.
✨Tip Number 4
Stay updated on current trends and challenges in local government, especially regarding governance and compliance. Being well-informed will allow you to speak confidently about how you can contribute to the organisation's success.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Democratic Services
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Before applying, make sure you fully understand the responsibilities of the Head of Democratic Services. Familiarise yourself with governance processes and local government law to tailor your application accordingly.
Highlight Relevant Experience: In your CV and cover letter, emphasise your substantial experience in a Democratic Services leadership role. Provide specific examples of how you've managed teams, overseen governance processes, and supported members in previous positions.
Showcase Your Skills: Demonstrate your exceptional organisational, written, and IT skills in your application. Consider including a brief section that outlines your ability to manage competing deadlines and work effectively in a political environment.
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your cover letter for this specific role. Address how your qualifications, such as the ADSO Diploma/Certificate, align with the requirements listed in the job description, and express your willingness to attend evening meetings and participate in election-related activities.
How to prepare for a job interview at Tripod Nursing
✨Demonstrate Your Governance Knowledge
Make sure to brush up on local government law and governance practices. Be prepared to discuss specific examples of how you've navigated complex governance issues in your previous roles.
✨Showcase Leadership Skills
As this role involves managing a team, highlight your leadership experience. Share instances where you've successfully led a team, managed competing deadlines, or improved service delivery.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that assess your problem-solving abilities in a political environment. Think of scenarios where you had to provide authoritative advice or manage conflicts, and be ready to explain your approach.
✨Build Rapport with Interviewers
Since the role requires building strong relationships with councillors and partners, demonstrate your interpersonal skills during the interview. Engage with your interviewers, listen actively, and show enthusiasm for collaboration.
