Civic Engagement Manager in Hackney

• 1 - 2 Month Contract With A Local Authority
• Job Purpose

To lead the planning, coordination and delivery of the Councilâ s civic, ceremonial and community engagement programme, ensuring events and engagements for the Speaker and Mayor are delivered effectively, professionally and in accordance with civic protocol.

The postholder will manage the Speakerâ s Office, provide proactive advice and support on civic matters, promote civic engagement and local democracy, and ensure high standards of event delivery, stakeholder engagement and public representation.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the development and delivery of the annual civic engagement and events programme, including major civic occasions, ceremonial events, receptions, community events, flag-raising ceremonies, twinning activities and Freedom of the Borough events.
• Plan and coordinate civic and ceremonial engagements for the Speaker and Mayor, ensuring programmes are aligned with Council priorities and delivered efficiently and professionally.
• Manage the Speakerâ s Office, including day-to-day operations, temporary staff, expenditure, correspondence, enquiries, diary and engagement arrangements.
• Provide expert advice to the Speaker, Mayor, Chief Executive and senior officers on civic protocol, ceremonial matters, political sensitivity and appropriate engagement.
• Ensure the Speaker and Mayor are fully briefed for engagements, including researching relevant issues and preparing speeches, briefings and supporting materials where required.
• Coordinate the induction of each new Speaker and ensure appropriate civic protocols, procedures and guidance are established, maintained and followed.
• Support the Speakerâ s fundraising activities, including developing and coordinating fundraising plans and supporting delivery against agreed objectives.
• Act as the Councilâ s lead Civic Officer, providing dependable advice on civic ceremonial matters, protocol, civic traditions and representation.
• Promote civic engagement and local democracy through initiatives such as Town Hall tours, management of civic facilities and participation in Local Democracy Week activities.
• Maintain the security, inventory and appropriate use of civic regalia and Speaker artefacts, ensuring relevant policies, procedures and risk assessments are in place.
• Coordinate civic macebearer arrangements and ensure appropriate standards and protocols are maintained.
• Manage the Speakerâ s transport arrangements, ensuring they are safe, cost-effective, dignified and compliant with relevant policies and security requirements.
• Coordinate the Councilâ s civic response to significant events, including the death of senior members of the Royal Family, the Mayor, Speaker, former Speaker or serving Councillors.
• Review and evaluate civic events and engagements, using feedback, benchmarking and best practice to continuously improve future delivery.
• Develop and maintain effective relationships with councillors, officers, community organisations, external partners and other stakeholders.
• Manage competing priorities and respond sensitively and professionally to confidential, controversial and politically sensitive matters.
• Work flexibly as required, including occasional evening and weekend attendance to support civic, ceremonial and fundraising events.
• Promote equality, diversity and inclusion in all aspects of civic engagement and service delivery.

Requirements

• Degree-level ability or equivalent professional experience and competence.
• Demonstrable experience of planning and delivering events, ideally within a local authority, public sector, civic or political environment.
• Experience of coordinating multiple projects, activities and competing priorities to meet deadlines and agreed standards.
• Experience of producing high-quality written materials, including briefings, correspondence, speeches, reports and event documentation.
• Experience of developing or supporting fundraising strategies and activities.
• Strong understanding of civic, democratic and ceremonial procedures and protocols.
• Understanding of the role and responsibilities of a civic office-holder, ideally including a Speaker or Mayor.
• Strong political awareness and the ability to handle sensitive, confidential and potentially controversial issues with discretion.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to engage confidently with diverse audiences.
• Strong organisational and administrative skills, with the ability to work independently and manage a varied workload.
• Ability to work collaboratively, demonstrate initiative and maintain a professional approach under pressure.
• Good IT skills and experience of using digital systems to support effective service delivery.
• Understanding of equality, diversity and cohesion principles and their application within a public sector environment.
• Flexible approach to working hours, including availability for evening and weekend civic, community and fundraising events when required.
• Additional Information

Location

Within the London Borough of Hackney; hybrid working with

3 days per week in the office .

Hours Per Week

Full-time hours, with flexibility required to support civic events and engagements outside normal office hours.

Bi-Weekly Payments