At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the Democratic Services Team and enhance governance processes.
- Company: Join Harborough District Council, dedicated to transparency and effective decision-making.
- Benefits: Flexible working options, supportive team environment, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Evening meetings required; part-time or job-share options available.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on local governance while working in a dynamic political setting.
- Qualifications: Experience in local government law and team leadership is essential.
Salary: Grade 9 £46,142-£49,282 pa
Contract: Permanent, Full Time
Hours: 37 hours per week. Attendance at evening meetings is required.
Reference: LD/25/319508
DBS Check: No
Are you passionate about good governance, transparency, and supporting democratic decision-making? An exciting opportunity has arisen to lead ourDemocratic Services TeamatHarborough District Council— a pivotal role at the heart of our organisation.
This is your chance to shape and strengthen the Council’s democratic processes, working closely with elected members and senior officers to ensure our governance framework is effective, transparent, and legally sound.
About the Role
As theLead for the Democratic Services Team, you’ll:
- Oversee the delivery and continuous improvement of our Democratic Services function.
- Lead and support a small, dedicated team committed to excellence.
- Provide high-level governance advice across the organisation.
- Act asDeputy Monitoring Officer, supporting ethical governance, managing standards complaints, and maintaining the Council’s Constitution.
- You’ll play a key role in ensuring our meetings, scrutiny functions, and civic responsibilities are delivered to the highest standards.
What We’re Looking For
We’re seeking a confident, knowledgeable, and forward-thinking leader who can thrive in a dynamic political environment. You’ll bring:
- In-depth knowledge of local government law and decision-making procedures.
- Proven experience leading teams through change in a fast-paced setting.
- A proactive, solutions-focused mindset with a passion for service development.
- The ability to provide clear, confident advice under pressure.
- Strong interpersonal skills to build trusted relationships with councillors and officers, and work well with the public.
- Sound judgement and a fair, balanced approach to resolving complex issues.
Attendance at evening meetings will be required and a driving licence would be beneficial.
The post is politically restricted.
We understand that, for most, home life is a priority, so we are happy to consider this role on a part-time or job-share basis.
Desirable criteria from the person specification which you can access through the ‘Apply for Job’ button below, may be used for sifting purposes.
Please include 2 referees, one of which must be your present or most recent employer. Please also provide your present or most recent annual gross salary and required notice period.
Find out more about the benefits of working at Harborough District Council at Benefits of working for us | Working for HDC | Harborough District Council
Closing date: 23:59, Wednesday 13 August 2025
Interviews will be held during the week commencing 25 August 2025
For full details and to apply, please click on the ‘Apply for Job’ button below.
#J-18808-LjbffrDemocratic Services Manager, Harborough District Council in Market Harborough employer: Association Of Democratic Services Officers
Harborough District Council is an excellent employer that values good governance and transparency, offering a supportive work culture where your contributions directly impact the community. With opportunities for professional growth and a commitment to work-life balance, including flexible working arrangements, you will thrive in a dynamic environment while leading a dedicated team committed to excellence in democratic services.
Contact Details:
Association Of Democratic Services Officers Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Democratic Services Manager, Harborough District Council in Market Harborough
✨Dive into Local Government Events
Get yourself to local government events and public sector job fairs. These are great for meeting recruiters and understanding what different organisations, like Association Of Democratic Services Officers, are looking for. Plus, it shows your genuine interest in the sector!
✨Join Relevant Networks
Look for communities focused on public sector careers. Whether it’s local networking groups or online forums, connecting with professionals in the field can provide insider knowledge and opportunities that you won’t find on typical job boards.
✨Utilise Your University’s Resources
If you’re freshly graduated or still studying, make the most of your university's careers service. They often have exclusive partnerships with companies like Association Of Democratic Services Officers and can help you get your foot in the door for these full-time public sector roles.
✨Stay Updated with Government Initiatives
Keep your finger on the pulse regarding new government projects and policies. Understanding current initiatives can give you a leg up in interviews, showing that you are informed and genuinely interested in making a difference in the public sector.
We think you need these skills to ace Democratic Services Manager, Harborough District Council in Market Harborough
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Relevant Experience:In the public sector, having experience in community engagement, policy analysis, or project management stands out. Make sure to showcase any previous roles or volunteer work that reflects your understanding of public service values and how they've shaped your career path.
Showcase Your Knowledge of the Sector:When you’re applying for a government role, it’s crucial to demonstrate your understanding of the current political landscape and public policies. Consider including articles you've written or relevant projects that underline your capability to engage with these concepts effectively.
Tailor Your CV to Reflect Core Competencies:Government positions often require a clear demonstration of competencies such as communication, teamwork, and problem-solving. Try to structure your CV to highlight these skills, using specific examples of how you’ve applied them in past experiences, ideally with quantifiable outcomes where possible.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to tell your story and convey your passion for public service. Discuss why you want to work for Association Of Democratic Services Officers and how your values align with their mission. Be genuine and let your enthusiasm shine through—this can really set you apart from other candidates.
How to prepare for a job interview at Association Of Democratic Services Officers
✨Get to Know Public Sector Values
Before your interview with Association Of Democratic Services Officers, dig deep into their mission and values, especially how they align with public service and community impact. Understand the key policies or initiatives they are involved in – you’ll want to show that you genuinely care about serving the community.
✨Brush Up on Regulatory Knowledge
Brush up on the regulations, laws, and compliance standards relevant to the role you’re applying for. Since this is the government and public sector, they might throw technical questions related to policy frameworks or project management best practices that you'll need to navigate day-to-day.
✨Highlight Teamwork and Collaboration
The government sector thrives on collaboration. Be ready to discuss how you've successfully worked in diverse teams or involved stakeholders in your projects. Show us how you bring people together to get a common goal achieved – that's what public service is all about!
✨Prepare Real-Life Examples
Craft a few STAR (Situation, Task, Action, Result) stories that demonstrate your experience in similar roles. Whether it’s a project that made a difference in the community or a challenging situation you managed, be ready to express how your skills and experiences make you a valuable asset for Association Of Democratic Services Officers.
