At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the operational delivery of FOI and EIR requests in a local authority.
- Company: Join a dynamic local authority focused on compliance and information rights.
- Benefits: Earn £25.13 per hour with opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Engage in a varied role with significant responsibility and career development.
- Why this job: Make a real impact by managing information rights and improving public service.
- Qualifications: Experience in FOI/EIR management and strong leadership skills required.
The predicted salary is between 25 - 25 £ per hour.
We are seeking an experienced Directorate Support Manager to lead the operational delivery of Freedom of Information (FOI), Environmental Information Regulations (EIR), and related information rights requests within a busy local authority environment. This role is responsible for managing the end-to-end FOI process, ensuring statutory deadlines are met, maintaining high standards of compliance, and leading a small team responsible for information request handling. The successful candidate will act as a key advisor on information rights legislation and support continuous improvement across the service.
Key Responsibilities
- Manage and oversee the day-to-day handling of Freedom of Information (FOI), Environmental Information Regulations (EIR), and related information rights requests.
- Ensure responses are accurate, compliant, and issued within statutory timescales.
- Line manage and support Directorate Support Officers, including workload allocation, performance management, coaching, and development.
- Act as the escalation point for complex, sensitive, high-profile, or overdue information requests.
- Review draft responses, disclosures, exemptions, redactions, and supporting documentation to ensure legal compliance.
- Coordinate and manage internal reviews, complaints, and correspondence with the Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO).
- Work closely with service managers and stakeholders across the organisation to obtain information and improve response performance.
- Produce performance reports, monitor KPIs, and identify trends, risks, and opportunities for service improvement.
- Develop and improve processes, guidance, templates, and working practices relating to information rights requests.
- Deliver advice, guidance, and awareness training on FOI, EIR, information governance, and records management requirements.
- Ensure all work is undertaken in accordance with relevant legislation, data protection requirements, and organisational policies.
Requirements
- Experience managing Freedom of Information (FOI) and Environmental Information Regulations (EIR) requests.
- Strong understanding of information rights legislation, exemptions, redactions, and disclosure requirements.
- Previous experience managing or supervising staff.
- Experience handling complex cases, internal reviews, and stakeholder engagement.
- Ability to monitor performance, manage caseloads, and meet statutory deadlines.
- Strong communication, organisational, and problem-solving skills.
- Experience within local government, public sector, or a similar regulated environment is highly desirable.
Ideal Background
- FOI Manager
- Information Rights Manager
- FOI Team Leader
- Information Governance Manager
- Senior Information Governance Officer
- Information Compliance Manager
What’s on Offer
- Competitive hourly rate of £25.13 PAYE.
- Opportunity to lead a key compliance function within a local authority.
- Varied and impactful role with responsibility for operational management, compliance, and service improvement.
Directorate Support Manager (FOI & Information Rights) – AR in London employer: Carrington Blake Recruitment
As a Directorate Support Manager within a local authority, you will be part of a dynamic and supportive work culture that prioritises compliance and continuous improvement. The role offers competitive pay, opportunities for professional development, and the chance to make a meaningful impact on information rights management in your community. Join us to lead a dedicated team and enhance your skills in a rewarding public sector environment.
Contact Details:
Carrington Blake Recruitment Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Directorate Support Manager (FOI & Information Rights) – AR in London
✨Get Engaged in Local Politics
Dive into your local council meetings or community boards. These spaces are packed with people who are already in the public sector and might have insider tips on upcoming temporary roles. Plus, you can connect directly with key decision-makers.
✨Stay Alert for Seasonal Recruitment
Many public sector jobs ramp up during certain times of the year, especially around election seasons or local budget planning periods. Keep your eyes peeled for recruitment drives during these windows, as they're prime times for temporary positions.
✨Leverage Online Job Portals
Don’t forget to check government job boards or websites like the local council's site for temporary postings. This is where many roles first get advertised, and applying directly here can speed things up.
✨Tap Into Your University Resources
If you're at university, make the most of your career services to discover opportunities in the public sector. They often have connections with local government employers who are looking for temporary staff and can help you polish your approach.
We think you need these skills to ace Directorate Support Manager (FOI & Information Rights) – AR in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Emphasise your understanding of public policy:In your application, make sure to highlight any knowledge or experience you have related to public policy, governance or community engagement. Show us how you can contribute to the public sector’s mission, especially if you've worked on relevant projects or initiatives before!
Tailor your CV to the sector's expectations:When crafting your CV, focus on including experiences that showcase your ability to work within government structures or similar environments. Use clear, concise language and consider adding any volunteer work or internships that reflect your commitment to public service.
Show flexibility and willingness to learn:Since this is a temporary role, it’s crucial to convey your adaptability and eagerness to pick up new skills quickly. In your cover letter, let us know how you plan to make the most of this short-term experience and what you hope to learn from it.
Include relevant certificates and training:If you've completed any training or have certifications that are relevant to the role (like public administration, project management, or data analysis), don't forget to mention them. These can really make you stand out in the application process!
How to prepare for a job interview at Carrington Blake Recruitment
✨Demonstrate Your Commitment to Public Service
In the government and public sector, showing that you're genuinely passionate about serving the community is key. Get ready to share examples where you've contributed to social good or tackled community issues, as this will resonate with interviewers from Carrington Blake Recruitment.
✨Prepare for Policy and Regulatory Questions
Expect questions about policies, regulations, or recently implemented government initiatives. Brush up on the latest news relating to public sector developments—being informed will help you demonstrate that you're ready to hit the ground running, especially in a temporary role.
✨Flexibility is Your Best Friend
Since this is a temporary role, emphasise your ability to adapt quickly. Share examples where you've successfully taken on new challenges or adjusted to different team dynamics, that'll show Carrington Blake Recruitment that you’re reliable and can effectively support various projects without a long onboarding process.
✨Prepare to Showcase Teamwork Skills
In the public sector, collaboration is vital. Be ready to discuss past experiences working in teams, especially in diverse environments. Highlight how you've contributed positively to group settings—this could really set you apart from other candidates in this temporary role.
