Head of Democratic Services, Runnymede Borough Council
Head of Democratic Services, Runnymede Borough Council

Head of Democratic Services, Runnymede Borough Council

Full-Time 43200 - 72000 £ / year (est.) No home office possible
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At a Glance

  • Tasks: Lead and develop the Democratic Services team while providing expert governance advice.
  • Company: Runnymede Borough Council, a community-focused and ambitious authority.
  • Benefits: Hybrid working, 29 days leave, excellent pension, and professional development opportunities.
  • Why this job: Make a real impact on local governance and support your community's growth.
  • Qualifications: Experience in Democratic Services leadership and strong organisational skills.
  • Other info: Flexible working options and a supportive environment for career advancement.

The predicted salary is between 43200 - 72000 £ per year.

Runnymede Borough Council is an ambitious authority where people are at the heart of everything we do. We are a great place to work, visit, study or call home. Through our Corporate Business Plan, we prioritise the things that matter to us:

  • Tackling the climate emergency and enhancing nature
  • Improving health and wellbeing for all
  • Supporting our communities through change
  • Growing a fair and sustainable economy

What you will do

  • Lead, manage and develop the Democratic Services team
  • Provide expert advice and guidance on governance and decision-making matters to the Council
  • Manage the servicing of the Council’s committees, member working parties and senior internal officer meetings
  • Lead the ongoing maintenance of the Council’s constitution
  • Lead upon member support, including new member induction and ongoing training

About you

  • Detailed technical knowledge of the law and practices in which Democratic/Committee Services operates
  • Substantial experience in a Democratic Services leadership role, or similar position
  • Ability to offer expert, well-reasoned advice in an authoritative and confident manner, in a range of settings
  • Well-organised: able to work methodically and manage a range of competing deadlines
  • High level of attention to detail

Benefits

  • Hybrid working 3 days in the office, 2 days working from home
  • Flexible working and Flexi-leave
  • 29 Days annual leave, plus bank holidays (goes up to 32 days after 2 years’ service)
  • Excellent Pension Scheme
  • Free Parking
  • Training and development opportunities
  • Payment of one professional membership per annum
  • Cycle to work + further related discounts
  • Season ticket loan
  • Health insurance plan after 1 year’s service/Dental after 3 years’ service
  • Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) & Wisdom Wellness App

Contact

For more information, please contact our retained Search Consultancy Osborne Thomas at runnymede@osbornethomas.org or via telephone 020 3280 3671. Alternatively visit https://osbornethomas.org/jobs/head-of-democratic-services-2/.

Closing date: 11.59pm, Monday 23rd February 2026

For full details and to apply, please click on the ‘Apply for Job’ button below.

Head of Democratic Services, Runnymede Borough Council employer: Association Of Democratic Services Officers

Runnymede Borough Council is an exceptional employer that prioritises the well-being of its employees while fostering a collaborative and supportive work environment. With flexible working arrangements, generous annual leave, and a commitment to professional development, we empower our staff to thrive both personally and professionally. Located in a vibrant community, we are dedicated to making a positive impact through our ambitious initiatives, making this a rewarding place to build your career.
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Contact Detail:

Association Of Democratic Services Officers Recruiting Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫

We think this is how you could land Head of Democratic Services, Runnymede Borough Council

✨Tip Number 1

Network like a pro! Reach out to people in your field, especially those connected to Runnymede Borough Council. A friendly chat can open doors and give you insights that might just set you apart from the crowd.

✨Tip Number 2

Prepare for interviews by researching the council's recent initiatives. Show us you’re not just another candidate; demonstrate your passion for tackling the climate emergency and enhancing community wellbeing.

✨Tip Number 3

Practice your pitch! Be ready to explain how your experience aligns with the role of Head of Democratic Services. We want to hear how you can lead and develop the team while providing expert advice.

✨Tip Number 4

Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to engage directly with us.

We think you need these skills to ace Head of Democratic Services, Runnymede Borough Council

Leadership
Democratic Services Knowledge
Governance Expertise
Committee Management
Constitution Maintenance
Member Support
Induction Training
Attention to Detail
Organisational Skills
Time Management
Advisory Skills
Communication Skills
Methodical Working

Some tips for your application 🫡

Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to reflect the specific skills and experiences that align with the Head of Democratic Services role. Highlight your leadership experience and knowledge of governance to show us you’re the right fit!

Showcase Your Expertise: Don’t hold back on demonstrating your detailed technical knowledge of Democratic Services. Use examples from your past roles to illustrate how you've provided expert advice and managed complex situations effectively.

Be Organised and Clear: We love a well-structured application! Make sure your CV and cover letter are easy to read, with clear headings and bullet points where necessary. This shows us you’re methodical and can manage competing deadlines.

Apply Through Our Website: Remember to apply through our website for the best chance of success! It’s the easiest way for us to receive your application and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates.

How to prepare for a job interview at Association Of Democratic Services Officers

✨Know Your Stuff

Make sure you brush up on the laws and practices surrounding Democratic Services. Being able to discuss these confidently will show that you have the detailed technical knowledge they’re looking for.

✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills

Prepare examples of how you've successfully led a team in the past. Highlight your experience in managing Democratic Services or similar roles, and be ready to discuss how you can develop and support your future team.

✨Be Methodical and Organised

Demonstrate your ability to manage competing deadlines by sharing specific strategies you use to stay organised. This will reassure them that you can handle the demands of the role effectively.

✨Engage with Their Values

Runnymede Borough Council values community and sustainability. Be prepared to discuss how your personal values align with theirs, especially regarding tackling climate change and improving health and wellbeing.

Head of Democratic Services, Runnymede Borough Council
Association Of Democratic Services Officers
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