At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and manage Council meetings, ensuring compliance and efficiency in democratic processes.
- Company: Join the dynamic Democratic Services and Scrutiny Team at Croydon Council.
- Benefits: Flexible working arrangements, inclusive culture, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Supportive environment with a focus on continuous improvement and team development.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on local governance and enhance community engagement.
- Qualifications: Experience in managing committee meetings and strong understanding of local government processes.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 50000 £ per year.
We are looking to appoint a Senior Democratic Services and Governance Officer (DSGO) focused on supporting Council and Regulatory Committees within the high‑performing Democratic Services and Scrutiny Team at the London Borough of Croydon. This senior role sits within a small dynamic team responsible for delivering an efficient, high‑quality Democratic Services function.
Responsibilities
- Leading on the delivery and management of Regulatory Committees and Full Council meetings, ensuring they are properly constituted, well‑run and compliant with legislation and Council procedures.
- Managing committee work programmes, scheduling meetings, and ensuring all statutory deadlines are met.
- Preparing, reviewing and overseeing the publication of agendas, reports and minutes to a high standard and in line with legal requirements.
- Attending meetings as a Democratic Services representative and providing authoritative procedural advice to Chairs, Councillors, Executive Mayor and Cabinet Members and Senior Officers.
- Monitoring and recording formal decisions to ensure they are lawful, transparent and correctly implemented.
- Leading and developing a small team, including line management of two officers and a trainee, ensuring high performance and continuous improvement.
- Building strong working relationships with Councillors, senior leadership and external partners, providing guidance on governance and decision‑making processes.
- Contributing to service development, including improvements to democratic processes, governance frameworks and efficiency initiatives.
- Facilitating the webcasting of meetings and supporting wider democratic engagement and transparency.
Qualifications
- A strong understanding of democratic processes and the legal framework within local government.
- Proven experience of servicing and managing complex committee meetings in a political or public sector environment.
- Excellent organisational and administrative skills, with strong attention to detail and the ability to manage competing priorities.
- The confidence and experience to advise senior Councillors, including Committee Chairs, on procedural and regulatory matters.
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to influence and collaborate at all levels.
- Experience of supervising or managing staff, supporting development and performance.
Equal Opportunities Statement
Croydon Council is an inclusive employer and welcomes applications from all sections of the community. Subject to business needs, we will be pleased to consider applications from candidates seeking flexible working arrangements and support hybrid working, whereby staff attend the workplace for part of their working week and work from home, or elsewhere, remotely for the rest of the time. As users of the disability confident scheme, we guarantee to interview all disabled applicants who meet the minimum criteria for the advertised role. Croydon Council is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and vulnerable adults and expects all staff to share this commitment. The successful candidate will be subject to a DBS check, if the role requires one.
Democratic Services and Governance Officer in London employer: Croydon Council
The London Borough of Croydon is an excellent employer, offering a supportive and inclusive work environment that prioritises employee growth and development. As part of the high-performing Democratic Services and Scrutiny Team, you will have the opportunity to lead a dynamic team while contributing to meaningful governance processes in a vibrant community. With flexible working arrangements and a commitment to diversity, Croydon Council fosters a culture of collaboration and innovation, making it an attractive place for those seeking a rewarding career in public service.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Democratic Services and Governance Officer in London
✨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 Croydon Council, 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 Croydon Council 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 and Governance Officer in London
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 Croydon Council 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 Croydon Council
✨Get to Know Public Sector Values
Before your interview with Croydon Council, 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 Croydon Council.
