At a Glance
- Tasks: Coordinate and support meetings, prepare agendas, and provide governance advice.
- Company: Join Basildon Borough Council, a key local authority making a difference.
- Benefits: Competitive hourly rate, flexible working hours, and the chance to impact your community.
- Other info: Opportunity for career growth while serving ~172,000 residents.
- Why this job: Be part of a team that drives positive change in housing and services.
- Qualifications: 3+ years in administrative support, excellent communication, and IT skills.
The predicted salary is between 22 - 27 £ per hour.
Basildon, Essex
Salary: £22.60 per hour
Contract: 3‑6 months, Full‑time (36.25 hrs/week) – part‑time (30 hrs) possible
Location: Basildon, Essex (minimum 3 days onsite per week)
Closing Date: Monday 9 March 2026
Role Overview
Senior Governance Officers form part of the Council’s Committee, Member and Executive Support Service, supporting the democratic and decision‑making process. In a hybrid arrangement, you will be responsible for timetabling, servicing and coordinating meetings of Cabinet, Committees and Sub‑Committees, preparing agendas and reports, providing procedural, legal and constitutional advice, and ensuring high quality governance arrangements.
Key Accountabilities
- Timetabling, servicing and coordinating meetings of Cabinet, Committees, Sub‑Committees and Panels.
- Preparation of agendas and related documents, writing reports and minutes.
- Arrange and attend meetings (evenings, hybrid or in‑person) ensuring all materials are available and follow‑up actions are taken.
- Provide procedural, legal and constitutional advice to Members at meetings.
- Advise and guide across the organisation on democratic and decision‑making processes.
- Prepare reports for Council, Cabinet and committees, ensuring consistency with statutory and constitutional requirements.
- Maintain work plans and lead on service issues when requested.
- Act as meetings manager for allocated internal and external meetings, driving agenda planning and new operating practices.
- Liaise with the public, Council officers and Members, fostering good working relationships.
Experience & Skills
- At least 3 years’ experience providing administrative support to committees.
- Project management experience using formal methods.
- Experience working with Elected Members and in accordance with relevant legislation and guidance.
- Excellent organisational and prioritisation skills to meet tight deadlines.
- Excellent written communication, including high‑quality reports and minutes.
- Strong relationship‑building with Elected Members and Officers at all levels.
- Flexible to attend evening meetings regularly.
- Proficient IT skills, especially Microsoft Office.
Why Basildon Council?
Basildon Borough Council is a major local authority serving ~172,000 residents, driving economic growth and community improvement. Working here gives you an opportunity to make a tangible difference in housing, environment, and services. Basildon Councillors commit to safeguarding and protecting children and adults, expecting all employees to share this commitment.
Application Process
If you are interested, please apply via the Working for Essex website. For queries, email.
Senior Governance Officer – Basildon Borough Council (Interim) employer: New Start
Basildon Borough Council is an excellent employer that offers a dynamic work environment where you can contribute to meaningful community improvements and drive economic growth. With a strong commitment to employee development, flexible working arrangements, and a supportive culture, you will have the opportunity to enhance your skills while making a real impact on the lives of approximately 172,000 residents in Basildon. Join us to be part of a dedicated team that values collaboration, integrity, and public service.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Governance Officer – Basildon Borough Council (Interim)
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We think you need these skills to ace Senior Governance Officer – Basildon Borough Council (Interim)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Relevant Experience:In the public sector, having experience in community engagement, policy analysis, or project management stands out. Make sure to showcase any previous roles or volunteer work that reflects your understanding of public service values and how they've shaped your career path.
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Tailor Your CV to Reflect Core Competencies:Government positions often require a clear demonstration of competencies such as communication, teamwork, and problem-solving. Try to structure your CV to highlight these skills, using specific examples of how you’ve applied them in past experiences, ideally with quantifiable outcomes where possible.
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How to prepare for a job interview at New Start
✨Get to Know Public Sector Values
Before your interview with New Start, dig deep into their mission and values, especially how they align with public service and community impact. Understand the key policies or initiatives they are involved in – you’ll want to show that you genuinely care about serving the community.
✨Brush Up on Regulatory Knowledge
Brush up on the regulations, laws, and compliance standards relevant to the role you’re applying for. Since this is the government and public sector, they might throw technical questions related to policy frameworks or project management best practices that you'll need to navigate day-to-day.
✨Highlight Teamwork and Collaboration
The government sector thrives on collaboration. Be ready to discuss how you've successfully worked in diverse teams or involved stakeholders in your projects. Show us how you bring people together to get a common goal achieved – that's what public service is all about!
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Craft a few STAR (Situation, Task, Action, Result) stories that demonstrate your experience in similar roles. Whether it’s a project that made a difference in the community or a challenging situation you managed, be ready to express how your skills and experiences make you a valuable asset for New Start.
