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- Tasks: Lead the Town Council, providing strategic direction and governance for Dorchester's future.
- Company: Join a vibrant community-focused Town Council in historic Dorchester.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, pension scheme, and professional development opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on the community while shaping the future of a historic town.
- Qualifications: Experienced leader with strong organisational skills and community focus.
- Other info: Supportive environment with opportunities for growth and influence.
The predicted salary is between 64373 - 72307 ÂŁ per year.
Salary: SCP 50–54 (£64,373 – £72,307 per annum)
Location: Dorchester, Dorset
Contract: Full‑time, permanent
Hours: 37 hours per week, with some evening and weekend commitments
Pension: Local Government Pension Scheme
Dorchester is a historic and culturally rich county town with a strong sense of identity, a vibrant community and a growing local economy. Known for its heritage, green spaces and quality of life, the town is evolving—balancing its historic character with new development, community ambition and a commitment to supporting residents, businesses and visitors. The Town Council plays a central role in shaping this future, working closely with partners and the community to protect what makes Dorchester special while planning confidently for the years ahead.
What you’ll be doing
As Town Clerk, you will be the Council’s most senior officer and its Proper Officer, providing strategic leadership, strong governance and clear professional advice to councillors. You will guide delivery of the Corporate Plan, support effective decision‑making and ensure the Council operates with integrity, transparency and sound financial management. You will lead a committed team delivering a wide range of services including parks, open spaces, cemeteries, allotments, markets, community buildings, events and civic and ceremonial functions and promote the town’s heritage. Working closely with the Responsible Financial Officer, you will oversee budgets, reserves, contracts and long‑term financial planning. You will also act as a visible ambassador for Dorchester, building strong relationships with residents, partners and regional bodies.
What they are looking for
They are seeking an experienced, confident and community‑minded leader who can balance strategic vision with practical delivery. You will be calm, grounded and resilient, with strong organisational skills and the ability to work effectively with councillors, staff, partners and residents. You will bring sound judgement, political awareness and the ability to navigate differing viewpoints and complexity. You will be collaborative, approachable and committed to public service, with a genuine respect for Dorchester’s heritage and identity. Local government experience, and a Certificate in Local Council Administration (CiLCA) is desirable but not essential (although you will be required to obtain this within 18 months).
What they offer
The Town Council offers a supportive, professional and community‑focused environment where you can make a meaningful impact. You will join a dedicated team, benefit from strong councillor support and have the opportunity to shape the future of a historic and evolving town. They offer:
- A competitive salary (SCP 50–54) (£64,373 – £72,307)
- Membership of the Local Government Pension Scheme
- Professional development and training, including support to achieve CiLCA
- A role with genuine influence and community impact
Click Apply to receive a candidate pack and application form.
Closing date: 5pm, 1st March 2026
Interviews: 11th March (First Stage) and 27th March (Second Stage)
Chief Executive (Town Clerk) in Dorchester employer: Ad Warrior
Contact Detail:
Ad Warrior Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Chief Executive (Town Clerk) in Dorchester
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with people in the local government scene. Attend community events, engage with councillors, and don’t be shy about sharing your vision for Dorchester. The more people know you, the better your chances of landing that Chief Executive role.
✨Tip Number 2
Showcase your leadership skills! When you get the chance to meet potential employers or partners, highlight your experience in strategic planning and community engagement. Share specific examples of how you've made a positive impact in previous roles—this will set you apart from the crowd.
✨Tip Number 3
Be prepared for interviews! Research the Town Council’s current projects and challenges. Think about how your skills can help shape the future of Dorchester. Practise answering common interview questions, but also be ready to discuss your vision for the town and how you can contribute to its growth.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We make it easy for you to submit your application and stay updated on the process. Plus, it shows you're serious about the role. Don’t forget to tailor your application to reflect your understanding of Dorchester’s unique character and community needs.
We think you need these skills to ace Chief Executive (Town Clerk) in Dorchester
Some tips for your application 🫡
Know Your Audience: Before you start writing, take a moment to understand who will be reading your application. Tailor your language and examples to resonate with the values and goals of the Town Council. Show them you get what Dorchester is all about!
Be Clear and Concise: When it comes to written applications, clarity is key. Use straightforward language and avoid jargon. Make sure your points are easy to follow, so the reader can quickly grasp your experience and vision for the role.
Showcase Your Leadership Skills: As a Chief Executive, you'll need to demonstrate strong leadership. Use your application to highlight specific examples where you've successfully led teams or projects. This will help us see how you can guide the Town Council effectively.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply through our website for a smooth application process. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to the right place and stands out in the crowd. Don’t miss out on this opportunity!
How to prepare for a job interview at Ad Warrior
✨Know Your Community
Familiarise yourself with Dorchester's history, culture, and current community initiatives. This will not only show your genuine interest in the role but also help you connect with the councillors and residents during the interview.
✨Demonstrate Leadership Skills
Prepare examples of how you've successfully led teams or projects in the past. Highlight your ability to balance strategic vision with practical delivery, as this is crucial for the Chief Executive role.
✨Understand Local Government Dynamics
Brush up on local government structures and processes. Being able to discuss how you would navigate political complexities and differing viewpoints will demonstrate your readiness for the role.
✨Showcase Your Commitment to Public Service
Be ready to articulate your passion for community service and how you plan to make a meaningful impact in Dorchester. This aligns with the council's values and will resonate well with the interviewers.
