At a Glance
- Tasks: Support senior leaders and elected Members in democratic processes and governance.
- Company: Join the West Midlands Fire Service, committed to transparency and improvement.
- Benefits: Enjoy a supportive team environment with opportunities for professional development.
- Other info: This role is fixed-term for 12 months and politically restricted.
- Why this job: Shape governance processes and make a real impact in your community.
- Qualifications: GCSEs in English and Maths required; experience in local government preferred.
The predicted salary is between 28800 - 43200 £ per year.
Democratic Services Officer – Fixed term 12 months – West Midlands Fire Service
Are you passionate about democratic processes and good governance? Do you thrive in a dynamic environment supporting senior leaders and elected Members? WMFS is seeking a highly organised and motivated Democratic Services Officer to join our Governance and Strategic Planning team.
In this pivotal role, you’ll be responsible for ensuring the effective administration of the West Midlands Fire and Rescue Authority (WMFRA) and its associated governance functions as part of the Democratic Services team. As part of a supportive and forward-thinking Strategic planning and governance team, you will help drive transparency, compliance, and continual improvement across our democratic services.
The publication of the WMFRA Improvement Plan in June 2025 provides a unique opportunity for the successful candidate to shape and enhance the service’s governance processes.
WMFS would be happy to consider secondments from existing democratic services roles for a 12-month period.
Experience and skills
We’re looking for someone with:
proven experience of local government governance frameworks and democratic processes
strong organisational skills
excellent communication and relationship-building abilities
experience managing competing priorities and maintaining confidentiality
a commitment to professional development and continuous improvement.
To apply for this role you will need:
GCSEs in English and Maths (grade C/4 or above) or equivalent
qualification and/or significant experience relevant to democratic services
evidence of continued professional development
proficiency in IT and committee and meeting management systems.
It would be advantageous to have:
membership of a professional body such as the Association of Democratic Services Officers (ADSO)
ADSO certificate or diploma, or similar governance qualifications
knowledge of relevant public sector legislation and fire service governance
experience training or briefing members and officers
higher education qualification in a relevant field (for example, politics or public sector management).
This post is politically restricted under Section 2 of the Local Government and Housing Act 1989.
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#J-18808-LjbffrDemocratic Services Officer – Fixed term 12 months – West Midlands Fire Service employer: National Fire Chiefs Council Limited.
West Midlands Fire Service is an exceptional employer that values transparency, compliance, and continuous improvement within its governance processes. With a supportive work culture and a commitment to professional development, employees are encouraged to grow and thrive in their roles. The unique opportunity to contribute to the WMFRA Improvement Plan allows for meaningful engagement in shaping the future of fire service governance in the West Midlands.
Contact Details:
National Fire Chiefs Council Limited. Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Democratic Services Officer – Fixed term 12 months – West Midlands Fire Service
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the local government governance frameworks and democratic processes specific to the West Midlands Fire Service. Understanding these will not only help you in interviews but also demonstrate your genuine interest in the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with current or former Democratic Services Officers, especially those who have worked within the West Midlands area. They can provide valuable insights into the role and the organisational culture, which can be beneficial during your application process.
✨Tip Number 3
Stay updated on recent developments in public sector legislation and fire service governance. This knowledge will not only prepare you for potential interview questions but also show your commitment to continuous improvement in the field.
✨Tip Number 4
Consider joining professional bodies like the Association of Democratic Services Officers (ADSO) if you haven't already. Membership can enhance your credibility and provide access to resources that may aid in your professional development.
We think you need these skills to ace Democratic Services Officer – Fixed term 12 months – West Midlands Fire Service
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role:Take time to thoroughly read the job description for the Democratic Services Officer position. Understand the key responsibilities and required skills, as this will help you tailor your application to highlight relevant experiences.
Highlight Relevant Experience:In your CV and cover letter, emphasise your experience with local government governance frameworks and democratic processes. Use specific examples to demonstrate your organisational skills and ability to manage competing priorities.
Showcase Communication Skills:Since excellent communication and relationship-building abilities are crucial for this role, provide examples of how you've successfully communicated with senior leaders or elected members in previous positions. This could be through managing meetings or training sessions.
Professional Development Evidence:Include any evidence of continued professional development in your application. Mention any relevant qualifications, memberships, or training that align with the requirements of the role, such as your involvement with the Association of Democratic Services Officers.
How to prepare for a job interview at National Fire Chiefs Council Limited.
✨Understand Democratic Processes
Make sure you have a solid grasp of local government governance frameworks and democratic processes. Be prepared to discuss how these frameworks impact decision-making and transparency within the organisation.
✨Showcase Organisational Skills
Demonstrate your strong organisational skills by providing examples of how you've managed competing priorities in previous roles. Highlight any specific tools or methods you use to stay organised and efficient.
✨Communicate Effectively
Excellent communication is key for this role. Practice articulating your thoughts clearly and concisely, and be ready to discuss how you've built relationships with senior leaders and elected Members in the past.
✨Highlight Continuous Improvement
Express your commitment to professional development and continuous improvement. Share any relevant training or qualifications you've pursued, and discuss how you plan to contribute to the ongoing enhancement of governance processes.
