Democratic Services Officer in Preston

Democratic Services Officer in Preston

Preston Full-Time No home office possible
James Andrews Recruitment Solutions Ltd

At a Glance

  • Tasks: Support committee chairs and manage public meetings while producing minutes and agendas.
  • Company: Join a dynamic Local Authority in South Wales focused on democratic processes.
  • Benefits: Enjoy fully remote work, flexible hours, and competitive pay of around £35/hour.
  • Other info: Full-time and part-time options available; recent experience required.
  • Why this job: Make an impact in local governance while enjoying a supportive and flexible work culture.
  • Qualifications: Experience in local government and understanding of democratic processes is essential.

We are currently partnering with a Local Authority in Lancashire, who are recruiting for a Democratic Services Officer to support their team on an initial 3-month locum basis, with potential for extension.

This is a full-time position with an hourly rate £28 - £33 p/hour (negotiable) via an Umbrella company and the start date is subject to notice.

Duties will include (but are not limited to):

  • Providing administrative and procedural support to council meetings, including preparing agendas and recording minutes
  • Advising elected members and officers on governance, constitutional requirements, and decision-making processes
  • Managing the publication of committee reports and ensured compliance with legal transparency regulations
  • Coordinating communication between councillors, officers, and the public regarding council business
  • Maintaining accurate records of decisions and ensuring they are properly implemented and archived
  • Using ModGov effectively to support end-to-end governance processes

Requirements:

  • Experience required within Local Government
  • Experience using the Mod.gov system

Rewards and Benefits:

  • Hybrid working
  • Flexible working days

Working hours:

  • 37 hours per week
  • Monday – Friday, flexible start/finish times

Please note that you require recent experience to apply for this role.

James Andrews is acting as an employment agency and business in relation to this role.

James Andrews Recruitment Solutions Ltd

Contact Detail:

James Andrews Recruitment Solutions Ltd Recruiting Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫

We think this is how you could land Democratic Services Officer in Preston

Tip Number 1

Familiarise yourself with the local authority's structure and recent decisions. This knowledge will help you engage in meaningful conversations during interviews and demonstrate your understanding of their specific democratic processes.

Tip Number 2

Network with current or former Democratic Services Officers, especially those who have worked in local government. They can provide valuable insights into the role and may even refer you to opportunities within their networks.

Tip Number 3

Prepare to discuss your experience with public committee meetings in detail. Be ready to share specific examples of how you've managed these meetings and any challenges you've overcome, as this will showcase your expertise.

Tip Number 4

Stay updated on current legislation and changes in local government practices. Being knowledgeable about recent developments will not only impress interviewers but also show your commitment to the role and its responsibilities.

We think you need these skills to ace Democratic Services Officer in Preston

Knowledge of Local Government Procedures
Understanding of Democratic Processes
Minute Taking and Documentation Skills
Strong Communication Skills
Advisory Skills
Attention to Detail
Ability to Interpret Legislation

Some tips for your application 🫡

Understand the Role:Before applying, make sure to thoroughly read the job description for the Democratic Services Officer position. Understand the key responsibilities and requirements, especially the need for experience in local government and knowledge of democratic processes.

Tailor Your CV:Customise your CV to highlight relevant experience that aligns with the duties listed in the job description. Emphasise your skills in managing public committee meetings and any previous roles that involved supporting elected members.

Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Write a cover letter that specifically addresses how your background and skills make you a great fit for the role. Mention your understanding of the Council’s Constitution and your experience with member training and development.

Proofread Your Application:Before submitting, carefully proofread your application materials. Check for spelling and grammatical errors, and ensure that all information is clear and concise. A polished application reflects your attention to detail, which is crucial for this role.

How to prepare for a job interview at James Andrews Recruitment Solutions Ltd

Know Your Local Government

Familiarise yourself with the structure and functions of local government, especially in South Wales. Understanding the specific democratic processes and decision-making frameworks will help you demonstrate your expertise during the interview.

Prepare for Committee Meeting Scenarios

Be ready to discuss your experience managing public committee meetings. Think of specific examples where you provided support or advice, and be prepared to explain how you handled challenges that arose during these meetings.

Highlight Your Communication Skills

As a Democratic Services Officer, clear communication is key. Prepare to showcase your ability to draft minutes, provide briefings, and advise elected members. Consider bringing samples of your work if appropriate.

Understand the Council’s Constitution

Brush up on the Council’s Constitution, Standing Orders, and Members’ Code of Conduct. Being able to discuss these documents confidently will show your commitment to the role and your understanding of the legal framework governing local authorities.