At a Glance
- Tasks: Support democratic processes by managing committee meetings and engaging with public concerns.
- Company: Join North Somerset Council, dedicated to high-quality community services and inclusivity.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working, competitive salary, and opportunities for professional development.
- Other info: Agile working options and a commitment to employee wellbeing.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in your community while developing your skills in a supportive environment.
- Qualifications: Strong communication skills, experience in managing meetings, and a passion for democracy.
The predicted salary is between 33000 - 42000 ÂŁ per year.
This job is brought to you by Jobs/Redefined, the UK's leading over‑50s age inclusive jobs board.
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 in Weston-super-Mare 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 in Weston-super-Mare
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in your field, especially those connected to local councils or democratic services. A friendly chat can lead to insider info about job openings that aren't even advertised yet.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on current affairs and council procedures. Show that you’re not just passionate but also knowledgeable about the democratic process. We want to see you shine!
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your communication skills! Whether it’s drafting minutes or engaging with councillors, being articulate is key. Try role-playing common scenarios with a friend to build confidence.
✨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 are proactive about their job search.
We think you need these skills to ace Committee Services Senior Officer in Weston-super-Mare
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. Use keywords from the job description to show that you understand what we're looking for.
Showcase Your Experience: When detailing your past roles, focus on your experience with managing committee meetings and decision-making processes. We want to see your proven track record, so don’t hold back on those achievements!
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your writing clear and to the point. We appreciate well-structured applications that are easy to read. Avoid jargon unless it’s relevant to the role, and make sure your passion for the democratic process shines through.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way to ensure we receive your details directly. Plus, it makes the whole process smoother for both you and us.
How to prepare for a job interview at North Somerset Council
✨Know Your Stuff
Familiarise yourself with the council's Constitution and any relevant legislation. Being able to discuss these confidently will show your understanding of the democratic process and impress the interviewers.
✨Showcase Your Skills
Prepare examples that highlight your organisational skills and ability to manage formal committee meetings. Think of specific situations where you successfully met deadlines under pressure, as this is crucial for the role.
✨Engage with Current Affairs
Stay updated on local and national issues that may affect the council's work. Demonstrating your awareness of current affairs during the interview will reflect your passion for the role and the community.
✨Practice Your Communication
Since strong communication skills are essential, practice articulating your thoughts clearly. You might even want to rehearse taking notes and drafting minutes from mock meetings to showcase your proficiency in this area.