Head of Democracy and Governance - Waverley Court

Head of Democracy and Governance

Location: Waverley Court. Salary: £94,901 - £106,811. Hours: 36 per week.

Do you have a passion for public service, a drive to shape the future of local government, and the vision to lead innovative change? The City Council is seeking an inspiring and strategic leader to join us as our next Head of Democracy and Governance.

As Head of Democracy and Governance, you’ll be at the heart of our mission to ensure transparent, lawful, and efficient council operations. You’ll lead and develop our Governance and Democratic Services, serve as our principal adviser on council performance, and champion best practice across a diverse and dynamic service area. You’ll play a pivotal role in enabling councillors, supporting key elections, and building relationships that drive real impact for our city.

Your Impact

• Shape and maintain the Council’s governance framework, ensuring we meet future needs and public service reforms.
• Oversee democratic services, from committee support to member development.
• Lead on all aspects of elections and statutory compliance.
• Promote ethical standards and information governance throughout the organisation.
• Drive innovative governance projects that make a tangible difference.
• Represent the Council to key external partners and stakeholders.

What You’ll Bring

• Senior leadership experience in complex, multidisciplinary environments.
• In-depth knowledge of Scottish local government legislation and governance.
• Proven ability to navigate political environments and provide independent, non‑partisan advice.
• A degree (or equivalent experience), with additional management qualifications highly valued.
• Vision, resilience, and a proven track record of managing major service areas.

Why Join Us?

• Lead a talented team across vital services.
• Influence decisions that shape the future of the Council and the city.
• Manage significant resources and budgets, driving best value for the community.
• Be part of a forward‑thinking, supportive leadership team committed to continuous improvement.
• Enjoy a rewarding role that combines challenge, purpose, and the chance to make a real difference.

This position is subject to Basic Disclosure check. Where an individual has spent a continuous period of 3 months or more out with the UK in the last 5 years, an Overseas Criminal Record Check will be required. You will be required to provide this check. An unconditional offer of employment and commencement in the post will be subject to the outcome of both these pre‑employment checks being deemed satisfactory.

We are committed to a diverse and inclusive workforce where everyone feels valued and able to be their best. We particularly encourage applications from women for senior roles, as well as people from minority ethnic backgrounds, people with disabilities or neurodivergent people, care‑experienced people, carers and LGBT+ people across all levels of the organisation, all of whom are currently underrepresented. All applicants will be considered fairly based on skills and experience. Disabled and care‑experienced applicants who meet the minimum job criteria will be guaranteed an interview.

Find out more about our commitment to equalities https://www.edinburgh.gov.uk/work-us/inclusive-edinburgh/4

Our salary range typically reflects the initial starting salary and annually increases until it reaches the top of the range.