At a Glance
- Tasks: Support democratic processes and facilitate council meetings to make a real community impact.
- Company: Join North Somerset Council, dedicated to inclusivity and high-quality community services.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working, competitive salary, and opportunities for professional development.
- Other info: Agile working environment with excellent career progression opportunities.
- Why this job: Be part of a team that shapes local democracy and engages with the community.
- Qualifications: Strong communication skills and experience in managing committee meetings are essential.
The predicted salary is between 33000 - 42000 ÂŁ per year.
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About Us
North Somerset Council is committed to providing high‑quality services to our community. We are committed to creating a fair, green, and more inclusive environment for all our residents. Join us and contribute to making a positive impact on our community.
The Role
We are seeking a dedicated and experienced Committee Services Senior Officer to join our Committee Services team. The Democratic Services team of which Committee Services is a part, is responsible for supporting the democratic process by arranging and facilitating all councillor decision‑making meetings; supporting engagement with public concerns and scrutiny of council activity through Policy and Scrutiny Panels and running elections, referendums and polls as required.
The Committee Services Senior Officer is responsible for preparing and publishing agendas and reports; convening and supporting meetings of council committees; ensuring that information on meetings and supporting papers is available to members/officers via the software management system and the public via the website; taking notes and preparing accurate minutes; providing advice on the council’s procedures relating to standing orders and delegated powers and providing effective and appropriate support to elected members in their role.
The post is career‑graded from level 6 to level 7 to allow progression as you gain experience and knowledge within the role. Progression to the next level of the career grade will be dependent upon managerial assessment of competence and independent working.
Our new system of agile working encourages flexibility. Although your work base will be the Town Hall, Weston‑super‑Mare, you will also be able to work from home should you prefer. Please note that some work at the Town Hall location will be required.
Work Style
This role falls into the category of Mobile/Field Worker which means you can expect to work in the following way: 0–1 day in the office. Includes field workers who primarily work remotely. Comes into the office for meetings or focused work. Virtual connections with the team are essential, with portable technology supporting work on the go.
About You
We are looking for an individual who is passionate about the democratic and election process and who possesses the following skills and experience:
- Ability to work under pressure to consistently meet deadlines.
- Strong interpersonal skills in dealing with a variety of people at all levels both within and outside the Council.
- Ability to work flexibly and on your own initiative.
- Positive approach to problem‑solving.
- Proven track record of success in managing formal committee meetings involving the decision‑making processes in a political organisation.
- Ability to interpret and apply legislation.
- Awareness of and an interest in current affairs.
- Good communication and writing skills.
- Excellent organisational skills.
- Proficient IT skills in Microsoft Office packages including Word, Outlook and Excel.
- Ability to take notes at meetings and use them to draft minutes.
- Current knowledge of the council’s Constitution and ability to find information within it.
What We Offer
At North Somerset Council, we value our employees and provide a supportive and inclusive work environment:
- Competitive salary and benefits.
- Flexible working arrangements.
- Local Government Pension.
- Opportunities for professional development.
- Inclusive Staff groups including Carers, Disabled, LGBTQ+, REACH (Race, Ethnicity and Cultural Heritage), and Young Staff Forums.
- Opportunity to purchase up to an additional 10 days annual leave each year.
- Dedicated in‑house Wellbeing Team.
- Salary sacrifice Cycle to Work and Electric Vehicle schemes.
Further details of our excellent rewards package can be found in our Benefits booklet.
How To Apply
If you share our vision and values and are ready to make an impact to North Somerset, please select the apply online button below. If you are interested in this exciting opportunity, please submit your application by 11.59pm on the application closing date. When completing our online application form, please detail how you meet the essential criteria for the role.
Contact Information
For further information about the role, please contact Hazel Brinton, Committee Services Manager at hazel.brinton@n-somerset.gov.uk or 01275 884811.
Important Information
As a Disability Confident Leader, we guarantee to interview all disabled applicants who meet the essential criteria for the job role. Interview Date: Thursday 11 June 2026. Please note: We are currently only able to accept applications from candidates who have full permission to work in the UK and are unable to provide Sponsorship for this role.
Equal Opportunities
At North Somerset Council we want all our employees to feel valued and appreciated. We aim to ensure equality of opportunity and prevent discrimination irrespective of your sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, religion or belief, race, age, disability, including neurodiversity, if you are married or in a civil partnership or are pregnant or currently on maternity leave. We strive to create a workplace that reflects the communities we serve and where everyone feels empowered to bring their full, authentic selves to work. We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expect all our staff and volunteers to share this commitment.
We reserve the right to close this advertisement early or extend the closing date depending on the number of applications received.
Committee Services Senior Officer employer: North Somerset Council
Contact Detail:
North Somerset Council Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Committee Services Senior Officer
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in your field, especially those already working at North Somerset Council. A friendly chat can give you insider info and maybe even a referral!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by researching the council's recent projects and initiatives. Show us that you're not just interested in the role but also in making a positive impact on the community.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your responses to common interview questions, especially around managing committee meetings and decision-making processes. We want to see your confidence shine through!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our team.
We think you need these skills to ace Committee Services Senior Officer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to highlight how your skills and experiences align with the role of Committee Services Senior Officer. We want to see how you can contribute to our mission at North Somerset Council!
Showcase Your Writing Skills: Since this role involves a lot of writing, be sure to demonstrate your communication skills in your application. Use clear and concise language, and don’t forget to proofread for any typos or errors!
Highlight Relevant Experience: When detailing your past roles, focus on experiences that relate directly to managing committee meetings and supporting democratic processes. We love seeing a proven track record that shows you can handle the responsibilities of this position.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply through our website for a smooth application process. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and keep everything organised. Plus, it shows you’re tech-savvy, which is a bonus!
How to prepare for a job interview at North Somerset Council
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you’re familiar with the council’s Constitution and any relevant legislation. Brush up on current affairs, especially those that might impact local governance. This will show your passion for the democratic process and help you answer questions confidently.
✨Showcase Your Skills
Prepare examples that highlight your strong interpersonal skills and ability to manage formal committee meetings. Think of specific situations where you successfully navigated challenges or deadlines, as this will demonstrate your capability to work under pressure.
✨Practice Makes Perfect
Rehearse common interview questions related to committee services and decision-making processes. You could even role-play with a friend to get comfortable discussing your experience and how it aligns with the job requirements.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Prepare insightful questions about the role and the team dynamics. This not only shows your interest but also helps you gauge if the environment is the right fit for you. Consider asking about the council's future initiatives or how they support professional development.