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.
Contact Detail:
James Andrews Recruitment Solutions Ltd Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Democratic Services Officer
✨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 within local government. They can provide 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
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Read the job description carefully to understand the key responsibilities and requirements for the Democratic Services Officer position. Tailor your application to highlight relevant experience in local government and democratic processes.
Highlight Relevant Experience: In your CV and cover letter, emphasise your experience managing public committee meetings and your understanding of the Council’s Constitution. Use specific examples to demonstrate your skills and achievements in similar roles.
Craft a Strong Cover Letter: Write a compelling cover letter that addresses why you are a good fit for the role. Mention your familiarity with democratic services and your ability to support elected members effectively. Make sure to convey your enthusiasm for the position.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting your application, thoroughly proofread all documents for spelling and grammatical errors. A polished application reflects your attention to detail, which is crucial for the role of a Democratic Services Officer.
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 show your commitment and readiness for the role.
✨Prepare for Committee Meeting Scenarios
Be ready to discuss how you would manage public committee meetings. Think about potential challenges and how you would address them, as well as your approach to taking comprehensive notes and producing minutes.
✨Demonstrate Your Advisory Skills
Since the role involves providing advice to elected members, prepare examples from your past experience where you successfully advised on constitutional matters or facilitated member training and development.
✨Showcase Your Tech Savviness
As the position requires maintaining online services, be prepared to discuss your experience with digital tools and platforms. Highlight any relevant software you've used for managing agendas, reports, and minutes.