At a Glance
- Tasks: Support elected Members by writing reports, creating agendas, and attending meetings.
- Company: Join Preston City Council and be part of a dedicated team.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexi time, hybrid working, 25+ days leave, and more perks.
- Other info: Flexible office days and opportunities for career growth await you.
- Why this job: Make a difference in local governance while developing your skills.
- Qualifications: Strong organisational skills and an understanding of political sensitivities.
The predicted salary is between 33699 - 35412 € per year.
Salary £33,699 to £35,412 per annum (pay award pending).
Post Type: Full Time
Contract Type: Permanent
Closing Date: 23.59 hours BST on Wednesday 10 June 2026
Reference: RELE02002
Member Services is a service within Preston City Council providing quality support to 48 elected Members of Council who represent a number of political parties. Working as part of a small and busy team, the role of Member Services Officer is diverse and includes:
- Writing reports
- Creating agendas
- Attending meetings
- Recording decisions taken
You will need to prioritise workloads, work to strict statutory deadlines, and provide procedural advice to senior officers and elected Members. You will be aware of the Council’s decision-making process and the Constitution which underpins it. Experience of Modern.gov (or a similar committee management system) would be desirable.
A knowledge of political sensitivities and an understanding of diplomacy must be one of your traits, as is the need to react swiftly to sometimes fast changing events. Flexibility is key, as you must be able to provide office cover during working hours. Hybrid working is currently in place, with three days based in the Town Hall and two days working from home. Due to the nature of the service and the meetings you will be required to attend, your office-based days will vary week to week.
A full UK driving licence is required, and out-of-hours working, or working at different locations, may be necessary.
Please read the Employee Specification and Job Outline prior to completing and submitting your application.
As an employer we like to thank our employees for their hard work and commitment by giving them the opportunity to access a range of employee benefits including:
- Flexi time
- Hybrid working
- A minimum of 25 days’ annual leave (plus Bank Holidays)
- Family friendly policies
- Access to an Employee Assistance Programme
- Local Government Pension Scheme
- AVC’s
- Life assurance scheme
- Payment of professional fees
- Discounted parking
- Cycle to work scheme
- Discounted bus and rail fares
Please note that this is a politically restricted post.
Interviews: It is anticipated that interviews will take place on Thursday 18 June 2026.
Member Services Officer in Preston employer: Preston Partnership
Preston City Council is an excellent employer that values its employees by offering a supportive work environment and a comprehensive benefits package, including flexible working arrangements and generous annual leave. The role of Member Services Officer provides unique opportunities for professional growth within local government, allowing you to engage directly with elected Members and contribute to the democratic process in a vibrant community. With a commitment to employee well-being and development, Preston City Council fosters a culture of collaboration and respect, making it an ideal place for those seeking meaningful and rewarding employment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Member Services Officer in Preston
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former employees at Preston City Council on LinkedIn. A friendly chat can give us insider info about the Member Services Officer role and might even lead to a referral.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by brushing up on your knowledge of the Council’s decision-making process. We want to show that we understand the political sensitivities and can handle the fast-paced environment of the role.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice makes perfect! Get a friend to do a mock interview with you. Focus on questions related to writing reports, creating agendas, and providing procedural advice. This will help us feel more confident when it’s our turn.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we can keep track of our application status easily.
We think you need these skills to ace Member Services Officer in Preston
Some tips for your application 🫡
Know the Role:Before you start writing, make sure you fully understand what a Member Services Officer does. Dive into the job description and highlight key responsibilities like writing reports and attending meetings. This will help you tailor your application to show how you fit the bill.
Showcase Your Skills:When you're putting together your application, don’t just list your experience. Instead, give us examples of how you've used your skills in similar roles. If you've worked with committee management systems or have experience in a political environment, shout about it!
Be Clear and Concise:We love a well-structured application! Keep your writing clear and to the point. Use bullet points where necessary and make sure your sentences are easy to read. Remember, we’re looking for someone who can communicate effectively, so let that shine through in your application.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way to ensure it gets to the right people. Plus, you’ll find all the details you need about the role and the application process there. We can’t wait to see what you bring to the table!
How to prepare for a job interview at Preston Partnership
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you’re familiar with the Council’s decision-making process and the Constitution. Brush up on any relevant reports or agendas that might come up during the interview. This shows you’re not just interested in the role, but you understand the context in which you’ll be working.
✨Show Your Flexibility
Since the role requires adaptability, be ready to discuss how you’ve handled changing priorities in the past. Share specific examples where you’ve successfully managed tight deadlines or unexpected changes, as this will demonstrate your ability to thrive in a dynamic environment.
✨Highlight Your Communication Skills
As a Member Services Officer, you’ll need to provide procedural advice and write reports. Prepare to talk about your experience in these areas. Bring examples of reports you’ve written or meetings you’ve facilitated, and be ready to explain how you ensure clarity and diplomacy in your communication.
✨Prepare for Political Sensitivities
Understanding political sensitivities is crucial for this role. Think about how you can demonstrate your awareness of these issues during the interview. You might want to discuss any previous experiences where you navigated complex political landscapes or dealt with sensitive information.