At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead committees, manage meetings, and provide governance support in a dynamic local authority.
- Company: Join a busy Local Authority Democratic Services team in Slough.
- Benefits: Enjoy hybrid working, bi-weekly pay, and a rewarding contract experience.
- Other info: Opportunity for career growth and mentoring junior colleagues.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on democratic processes and support local governance.
- Qualifications: Extensive experience in Democratic Services and strong communication skills required.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 50000 £ per year.
Contract: 6 Month Contract
Hours: Full Time
Working Pattern: Hybrid Working – 3 Days Office-Based / 2 Days Remote
We are seeking an experienced Senior Democratic Services Officer to join our dynamic Local Authority Democratic Services team. This role is pivotal in providing high-quality governance, committee, and democratic support across various council functions. As the lead officer for allocated committees and panels, you will ensure meetings are efficiently administered in line with statutory and constitutional requirements. Your expertise will guide councillors, officers, and the public, supporting democratic decision‑making processes. This is an excellent opportunity for a governance professional seeking a challenging and rewarding contract within Local Government.
Responsibilities
- Committee & Governance Support: Lead officer for committees, panels, and working groups. Prepare and publish agendas, reports, minutes, action logs, and statutory notices. Ensure compliance with legislative and constitutional deadlines. Provide professional support throughout decision-making processes.
- Meeting Management: Attend and manage formal meetings, including evening sessions. Offer procedural and constitutional advice during meetings. Accurately record decisions, actions, and outcomes.
- Democratic Services Advice: Provide procedural advice to councillors, senior officers, and the public. Support compliance with constitutional procedures and governance frameworks.
- Research & Report Writing: Conduct research on governance and policy matters. Draft reports, briefing papers, and policy documents. Present information and recommendations as needed.
- Decision-Making Processes: Coordinate non-committee decision-making procedures. Maintain governance records and documentation.
- Member Support & Development: Support elected Members in their roles. Assist in delivering Member training and induction programmes.
- Complaints & Information Governance: Support complaints investigations and governance-related enquiries. Assist with Freedom of Information Requests and other governance requirements. Mentor and support junior colleagues. Deputise for senior managers when required.
- Elections & Emergency Planning: Support elections-related activities and emergency response arrangements.
Requirements
- Extensive experience in Democratic Services, Committee Services, Governance, or Scrutiny Services within a Local Authority.
- Experience as a lead officer for committees and formal council meetings.
- Strong knowledge of Local Government legislation and governance procedures.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
- Ability to work in politically sensitive environments and manage multiple deadlines.
Highly Desirable
- Experience with Modern.Gov committee management software.
- ADSO Certificate in Democratic Services Knowledge.
- Experience supporting scrutiny functions and member development programmes.
Person Specification
Experience
- Significant experience in Democratic Services, Governance, or Committee Services.
- Experience servicing formal council meetings and providing procedural advice.
- Experience managing complex workloads and statutory deadlines.
Knowledge
- Detailed understanding of Local Government governance and decision‑making processes.
- Knowledge of committee procedures and constitutional requirements.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
- Strong organisational and analytical skills.
- Ability to manage competing priorities and deadlines.
Qualifications
- GCSE English (Grade C/4 or equivalent).
- ADSO Certificate in Democratic Services Knowledge (Desirable).
Location: Slough Hybrid Working – 3 Days Office-Based / 2 Days Remote Attendance at committee meetings and governance activities required. Some evening meetings may be required.
What's on Offer?
- 6 Month Contract
- Hybrid Working – 3 Days Office-Based / 2 Days Remote
- Opportunity to work within a busy Local Authority Democratic Services Team
- Bi-weekly Pay
Applications are particularly welcomed from candidates with experience as a Senior Democratic Services Officer, Committee Services Officer, Governance Officer, Scrutiny Officer, Civic Officer, Democratic Services Manager, Local Democracy Officer, or Committee Clerk.
Senior Democratic Services Officer in Slough employer: Civic Recruitment Limited
Civic Recruitment Limited is an excellent employer, offering a dynamic work environment where strategic leadership in the Special Educational Needs service can truly make a difference in children's lives. With a strong focus on collaboration and professional development, employees are encouraged to grow their skills while contributing to meaningful outcomes in the Bromley community. The supportive culture and commitment to high-quality services make this an attractive opportunity for those looking to lead impactful change.
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We think this is how you could land Senior Democratic Services Officer in Slough
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We think you need these skills to ace Senior Democratic Services Officer in Slough
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 Civic Recruitment Limited 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 Civic Recruitment Limited
✨Get to Know Public Sector Values
Before your interview with Civic Recruitment Limited, 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.
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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!
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