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- Tasks: Manage council operations, finances, and communications while supporting local governance.
- Company: Join a dedicated Parish Council making a difference in the community.
- Benefits: Flexible hours, professional development, and a chance to impact local governance.
- Why this job: Be the backbone of your community and help shape local decisions.
- Qualifications: Strong organisational skills, communication abilities, and basic financial knowledge required.
- Other info: Opportunity for growth and training in local government administration.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
Position: Clerk to the Council & Responsible Financial Officer (RFO)
Reports to: The Parish Council (via the Chairman)
Hours: Nine hours per week (flexible, including attendance at evening meetings)
The Clerk to the Council is the Parish Council's proper officer, responsible for ensuring that the Council conducts its business lawfully, effectively, and transparently. As Responsible Financial Officer (RFO), the Clerk is also responsible for the proper administration of the Council's financial affairs.
- Council Administration & Governance
- Act as the Proper Officer of the Council and provide professional advice to Councillors on governance, policy, and procedure.
- Prepare agendas for Council meetings in consultation with the Chairman and issue statutory notices.
- Attend Parish Council meetings (and other meetings as required) and produce accurate minutes.
- Implement and monitor Council decisions and resolutions.
- Ensure compliance with relevant legislation, including Local Government Acts, Data Protection legislation, Freedom of Information requirements, and the Parish Council's Standing Orders and Financial Regulations.
- Maintain statutory registers, including interests, assets, and policies.
- Act as the main point of contact between the Council, residents, Chelmsford City Council, Essex County Council, and other external bodies.
- Identify training needs for Councillors, source appropriate training opportunities (including induction for new Councillors), and make arrangements for Councillor training in line with best practice and the Council's training policy.
- Financial Management (RFO Duties)
- Administer the Council's finances in accordance with Financial Regulations and best practice.
- Prepare budgets, monitor expenditure, and advise the Council on financial matters.
- Maintain accurate accounting records.
- Process invoices, payments, and receipts.
- Prepare and submit the annual precept request.
- Complete and submit the Annual Governance and Accountability Return (AGAR).
- Liaise with the internal auditor and external auditor.
- Ensure compliance with audit and transparency requirements, including publication of financial information.
- Correspondence & Communication
- Manage the Council's correspondence, including emails and enquiries from residents.
- Draft correspondence, reports, policies, and notices as required.
- Maintain and update the Parish Council website and publish statutory documents.
- Support the Council's communications with residents, including notices and public information.
- Planning & Consultation
- Receive and process planning applications referred to the Parish Council.
- Circulate applications to Councillors and submit agreed responses to the Local Planning Authority.
- Other Duties
- Support the Council with projects appropriate to a small parish council.
- Arrange insurance, subscriptions, and contracts as required.
- Undertake training and professional development to maintain and improve skills.
- Carry out other duties as reasonably required by the Council.
- Essential
- Good organisational and administrative skills.
- Ability to work independently and manage time effectively.
- Strong written and verbal communication skills.
- Basic financial competence and attention to detail.
- Familiarity with Microsoft Office and email systems.
- Desirable
- Experience as a Parish Clerk or in local government administration.
- CiLCA qualification or willingness to work towards it.
- Knowledge of parish council law, procedures, and finance.
Parish Clerk & Responsible Financial Officer employer: Government of The United Kingdom
Contact Detail:
Government of The United Kingdom Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Parish Clerk & Responsible Financial Officer
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to local councils, attend community events, and connect with current or former Parish Clerks. Building relationships can open doors and give you insider info on job opportunities.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your knowledge of local government legislation and financial regulations. Be ready to discuss how you would handle specific scenarios that might come up in the role.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your organisational skills! Bring examples of how you've managed projects or handled multiple tasks effectively. This will demonstrate your ability to juggle the various responsibilities of a Parish Clerk.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive about their job search.
We think you need these skills to ace Parish Clerk & Responsible Financial Officer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to highlight how your skills and experiences align with the role of Parish Clerk & RFO. We want to see how you can bring your unique flair to our team!
Show Off Your Organisational Skills: Since this role requires strong organisational abilities, give us examples of how you've successfully managed tasks or projects in the past. We love a good story about time management and prioritisation!
Be Clear and Concise: When writing your application, keep it straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so avoid jargon and make sure your key points shine through. Remember, less is often more!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to submit your application via our website. It’s the easiest way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it’s super simple!
How to prepare for a job interview at Government of The United Kingdom
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you’re familiar with the role of a Parish Clerk and RFO. Brush up on local government legislation, financial regulations, and council procedures. Being able to discuss these topics confidently will show that you’re serious about the position.
✨Prepare for Questions
Think about the types of questions you might be asked, especially around governance, financial management, and communication. Prepare specific examples from your past experiences that demonstrate your skills in these areas. This will help you articulate your fit for the role.
✨Show Your Organisational Skills
As this role requires strong organisational abilities, be ready to discuss how you manage your time and tasks. You could even bring a sample agenda or minutes from a previous meeting you’ve organised to showcase your experience.
✨Engage with the Interviewers
Don’t forget that interviews are a two-way street! Prepare some thoughtful questions about the council’s current projects or challenges. This not only shows your interest but also gives you insight into what you’d be stepping into.