At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and inspire teams in democratic governance and decision-making processes.
- Company: Middlesbrough Council, committed to community and public service.
- Benefits: Generous annual leave, employee discounts, pension scheme, and flexible working options.
- Other info: Join a dynamic team dedicated to creating a brighter future for communities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on local governance and shape the future of Middlesbrough.
- Qualifications: Experience in local authority, strong leadership, and excellent communication skills.
The predicted salary is between 50000 - 60000 £ per year.
We have an exciting role on offer within our Legal and Corporate service as Head of Democratic Services. We’re looking for an exceptional leader to take on a pivotal role at the heart of Middlesbrough Council. As Head of Democratic Services, you’ll be central to ensuring strong, transparent, and forward-thinking governance, supporting elected members, driving effective decision-making, and helping deliver the Mayor’s vision for the borough. This is a unique opportunity to influence how a modern council operates, ensuring services are agile, high-performing, and responsive to the needs of our communities. You’ll lead the Council’s Democratic, Electoral, Registration and Civic services—ensuring they are efficient, innovative, and fit for the future. Working closely with councillors, senior leaders, and the Mayor, you’ll play a key role in shaping governance, supporting policy development, and strengthening democratic processes.
What you’ll be doing:
- Strategic leadership - Lead and inspire high-performing teams across Democratic Services, Electoral Services and Registration Services.
- Governance excellence - Act as the principal advisor on constitutional and governance matters, ensuring the Council operates legally, ethically and effectively.
- Member engagement & development - Work closely with elected members, delivering training, development programmes and ensuring they are fully supported in their roles.
- Democratic & committee services - Oversee the smooth running of Council and committee meetings, ensuring robust decision-making processes.
- Elections & registration - Act as Deputy Returning Officer and Statutory Registration Officer, ensuring the successful delivery of elections and electoral registration.
- Scrutiny & accountability - Lead the Council’s scrutiny function, enabling effective challenge, policy development, and continuous improvement.
- Corporate leadership - Be a key member of the Wider Leadership Management Team, driving organisational initiatives and embedding Council values.
What we’re looking for:
- We want a confident, politically aware leader who can operate at the highest level.
- You will bring significant experience working with elected members in a local authority environment.
- Strong knowledge of democratic governance, constitutional processes and legislation.
- Proven leadership and people management skills.
- Excellent communication and influencing abilities.
- The ability to work under pressure and deliver to tight deadlines.
- A proactive, solutions-focused approach to change and innovation.
- A relevant qualification or equivalent experience is essential, along with a passion for public service.
At Middlesbrough Council, our values are at the heart of everything we do. We’re committed to creating a brighter future for our communities—and we’re looking for leaders who share that ambition.
You’ll have the opportunity to:
- Make a real impact on how the Council operates.
- Work at the centre of democratic decision-making.
- Lead meaningful change across the organisation.
- Develop your career at a senior leadership level.
If you’re passionate about governance, leadership, and public service and ready to play a key role in shaping Middlesbrough’s future, we’d love to hear from you.
If you would like to talk through this opportunity further, please contact Charlotte Benjamin on charlotte_benjamin@middlesbrough.gov.uk.
We operate a Guaranteed Interview Scheme for applicants that can show they meet all the essential criteria and have indicated they have a disability, are a looked after young person, care leaver or a veteran.
What we offer:
We believe in rewarding our people for their hard work by offering an attractive benefits package including generous annual leave, employee discounts and that all important pension, there’s something to benefit everyone!
- Electric Car Scheme
- Generous Annual Leave
- Pension Scheme
- Flexible/Hybrid Working
- Health & Well-being Benefits
- Discounts on gym memberships, retailers and more
Head of Democratic Services in Middlesbrough employer: Middlesbrough Council
Middlesbrough Council is an exceptional employer that prioritises strong governance and community engagement, offering a unique opportunity for leaders to make a meaningful impact. With a commitment to employee development, flexible working arrangements, and a comprehensive benefits package including generous annual leave and health well-being initiatives, we foster a supportive and innovative work culture. Join us in shaping the future of Middlesbrough while advancing your career in a dynamic and rewarding environment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Democratic Services in Middlesbrough
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with people in the local authority scene. Attend events, join relevant groups, and don’t be shy about reaching out to current or former council members. You never know who might have the inside scoop on opportunities!
✨Tip Number 2
Show your passion for public service! When you get the chance to chat with potential employers, make sure to highlight your commitment to community and governance. Share examples of how you've made a difference in previous roles—this will set you apart from the crowd.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on current governance issues and the specific challenges facing Middlesbrough Council. Being knowledgeable about local matters shows that you’re genuinely interested and ready to hit the ground running.
✨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 take the initiative to engage directly with us. Let’s make this happen together!
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Democratic Services in Middlesbrough
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to highlight how your experience aligns with the role of Head of Democratic Services. Use keywords from the job description to show that you understand what we’re looking for.
Showcase Your Leadership Skills:We want to see your leadership style! Share examples of how you've led teams or projects in the past, especially in a local authority setting. This will help us understand how you can inspire and manage high-performing teams.
Demonstrate Your Knowledge of Governance:Since this role is all about governance, make sure to include your understanding of democratic processes and legislation. We’re keen to see how you’ve applied this knowledge in previous roles.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity at Middlesbrough Council.
How to prepare for a job interview at Middlesbrough Council
✨Know Your Governance Inside Out
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of democratic governance and constitutional processes. Familiarise yourself with the specific legislation that impacts local authorities, as this will show your expertise and confidence in the subject during the interview.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Prepare examples of how you've successfully led teams in the past. Think about times when you inspired high performance or navigated challenges. This role is all about leadership, so demonstrating your ability to manage and motivate others will be key.
✨Engage with Elected Members
Be ready to discuss your experience working with elected members. Highlight any training or development programmes you've implemented, as well as how you've supported them in their roles. This will illustrate your commitment to member engagement and development.
✨Demonstrate Your Problem-Solving Approach
Think of specific instances where you've tackled challenges or driven innovation in a previous role. The council is looking for someone proactive and solutions-focused, so sharing these experiences will help you stand out as a candidate who can deliver under pressure.
