Find a job 
Featured Companies 
Featured Universities 
For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead council operations, manage budgets, and engage with the community.
- Company: Join a reputable Parish Council dedicated to serving the local community.
- Benefits: Enjoy a part-time role with a competitive salary and meaningful impact.
- Why this job: Be a strategic leader driving change in public service while supporting your community.
- Qualifications: Strong leadership, communication skills, and emotional intelligence required.
- Other info: Flexible working hours with a focus on community engagement.
The predicted salary is between 44075 - 47181 £ per year.
Executive Officer (Clerk and Responsible Financial Officer) – Smiley & Co, Ltd.
Location: Etchingham, TN19 7BY
Salary: £39,862 – £42,839 per annum (FTE, pro rata for part‑time)
Vacancy type: Permanent, part‑time (22 hours per week)
Closing date: 21st December 2025
Role
The Parish Council is seeking an Executive Officer to lead their work at the heart of local democracy. You will be the council’s principal adviser, helping turn ideas into action and delivering projects that make a visible difference. You will steer the Neighbourhood Plan, represent Etchingham in district and county forums, and ensure the parish’s voice is heard and ambitions realised.
Responsibilities
- Lead the preparation of annual work plans, advising councillors with clear analysis to prioritise objectives, shape consultation responses, and ensure Etchingham’s voice influences district and county decisions.
- Drive alignment of parish priorities with district objectives to secure funding and support for the Neighbourhood Plan.
- Turn policy into action through community projects that enhance facilities, protect the environment, and strengthen local identity.
- Advise councillors on how national and regional changes in planning and governance may affect the parish, supporting future‑proofing of council operations.
- Maintain statutory compliance, while helping the council innovate and adapt to future changes in local government.
Skills and Qualifications
- Professional expertise with a collaborative, community‑focused approach.
- Confidence to advise elected members and resilience to manage priorities.
- Strong organisational and financial skills, clear communication to drive engagement with residents and partners.
- Strategic leadership and adaptability, with an eye on future developments.
- Local government experience is helpful but not essential; training will be provided for the Certificate in Local Government Administration (CiLCA).
Benefits
- Generous annual leave and access to a generous pension scheme.
To Apply
If you feel you are a suitable candidate and would like to work for Smiley & Co, Ltd., please do not hesitate to apply.
#J-18808-Ljbffr
Executive Officer employer: Smiley & Co, Ltd.
Contact Detail:
Smiley & Co, Ltd. Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Executive Officer
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the local community and its needs. Attend council meetings or community events to understand the current issues and priorities, which will help you demonstrate your commitment and insight during the interview.
✨Tip Number 2
Showcase your leadership skills by discussing past experiences where you've successfully led teams or projects. Prepare specific examples that highlight your ability to inspire others and drive change, as these qualities are crucial for the Executive Officer role.
✨Tip Number 3
Research the council's Strategic Plan and any recent initiatives. Being knowledgeable about their goals and challenges will allow you to engage in meaningful discussions and propose relevant ideas during your interview.
✨Tip Number 4
Demonstrate your emotional intelligence and diplomacy by preparing to discuss how you've handled conflicts or differing opinions in the past. This will show your ability to maintain professionalism and foster respectful dialogue, which is essential for this position.
We think you need these skills to ace Executive Officer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Read the job description thoroughly to grasp the key responsibilities and skills required for the Executive Officer position. Tailor your application to highlight how your experience aligns with these requirements.
Craft a Compelling CV: Ensure your CV is up-to-date and clearly outlines your relevant experience, particularly in leadership, financial management, and community engagement. Use bullet points for clarity and focus on achievements that demonstrate your strategic thinking.
Write a Strong Cover Letter: Your cover letter should reflect your passion for public service and your understanding of local government dynamics. Address how you can drive meaningful change and support the council's strategic initiatives, using specific examples from your past roles.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your CV and cover letter for any spelling or grammatical errors. A polished application reflects your attention to detail and professionalism, which are crucial for the Executive Officer role.
How to prepare for a job interview at Smiley & Co, Ltd.
✨Showcase Your Strategic Thinking
As an Executive Officer, you'll need to demonstrate your ability to think strategically. Prepare examples of how you've successfully developed and implemented strategic plans in previous roles, highlighting the impact on the organisation.
✨Communicate Clearly and Confidently
Strong communication skills are essential for this role. Practice articulating your thoughts clearly and confidently, especially when discussing complex topics related to local government and community needs.
✨Demonstrate Emotional Intelligence
Given the importance of emotional intelligence in this position, be ready to discuss how you've handled challenging conversations or conflicts in the past. Show that you can engage constructively with differing opinions while maintaining professionalism.
✨Prepare for Questions on Compliance and Governance
Since compliance and governance are key responsibilities, brush up on relevant legislation and best practices. Be prepared to answer questions about how you would ensure these standards are upheld within the council.
