At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead Didcot Town Council in merging growth with community needs and managing complex challenges.
- Company: Didcot Town Council, a key player in the growth of a vibrant Garden Town.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible working, pension scheme, and professional development opportunities.
- Other info: Join a dynamic team committed to community welfare and innovative projects.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in a growing community while developing your leadership skills.
- Qualifications: Strong leadership, political awareness, and excellent communication skills required.
Salary: £60,454-£92,021 per annum
Hours of work: Full time 37 hours per week
Contract: Permanent
A bit about us: Didcot is a designated Garden Town in South Oxfordshire and the population @ 40,000 is due to peak at around 62,500 in ten years’ time. Didcot Town Council is at the heart of the growth – with a team of dedicated Town Councillors and staff working hard to make a difference to the lives of our residents and businesses.
All about the role: Your challenge is to merge the new Didcot with the established Didcot. It’s a big job for a big town – steadily growing – and then there is the Local Government Reorganisation likely to increase the assets and facilities still further!
We are looking for a highly competent leader and excellent manager who brings sound judgement, political awareness and the ability to navigate complexity with calmness and emotional intelligence. You will have strong diplomatic skills and be comfortable in presenting and engaging with your audience. You will know how to inspire others in a variety of situations. Good governance is second nature in running a competent Council with big ambitions.
What we offer:
- Competitive salary
- Membership of the Local Government Pension Scheme
- Flexible working arrangements and a strong focus on well-being with access to independent counselling, coaching and mentoring services
- Essential car users’ allowance
- A relocation package – if required and individually negotiated
- The CILCA qualification should already be in place but outstanding candidates would be given twelve months to achieve this. Preference will be given to those candidates who hold CILCA.
- The opportunity to continue your professional development.
Closing date (and time): 28th September 2026 11:59pm
Interview date: 23rd October 2026
Commencement date: 28th August 2026
This post is exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974. Applicants must disclose all spent and unspent convictions, cautions, reprimands and warnings that are not ‘protected’ under the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 (Exceptions) Order 1975 (as amended in 2013 & 2020). An enhanced DBS check will be required for the successful applicant.
PLEASE DO NOT APPLY VIA THE APPLY BUTTON BELOW. Applications must be made via the instructions provided above. Applications or CV's submitted via the apply button will not be considered.
Didcot Town Council Chief Officer employer: Wiltshire
Wiltshire Council is an excellent employer for aspiring lifeguards, offering a supportive work environment that prioritises safety and community engagement. With opportunities for career growth through NPLQ training and a commitment to employee development, you will find a rewarding role that not only enhances your skills but also allows you to make a positive impact in the lives of pool members. Join us in a vibrant location where teamwork and public service are at the heart of what we do.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Didcot Town Council Chief Officer
✨Dive into Local Government Events
Get yourself to local government events and public sector job fairs. These are great for meeting recruiters and understanding what different organisations, like Wiltshire, are looking for. Plus, it shows your genuine interest in the sector!
✨Join Relevant Networks
Look for communities focused on public sector careers. Whether it’s local networking groups or online forums, connecting with professionals in the field can provide insider knowledge and opportunities that you won’t find on typical job boards.
✨Utilise Your University’s Resources
If you’re freshly graduated or still studying, make the most of your university's careers service. They often have exclusive partnerships with companies like Wiltshire and can help you get your foot in the door for these full-time public sector roles.
✨Stay Updated with Government Initiatives
Keep your finger on the pulse regarding new government projects and policies. Understanding current initiatives can give you a leg up in interviews, showing that you are informed and genuinely interested in making a difference in the public sector.
We think you need these skills to ace Didcot Town Council Chief Officer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Relevant Experience:In the public sector, having experience in community engagement, policy analysis, or project management stands out. Make sure to showcase any previous roles or volunteer work that reflects your understanding of public service values and how they've shaped your career path.
Showcase Your Knowledge of the Sector:When you’re applying for a government role, it’s crucial to demonstrate your understanding of the current political landscape and public policies. Consider including articles you've written or relevant projects that underline your capability to engage with these concepts effectively.
Tailor Your CV to Reflect Core Competencies:Government positions often require a clear demonstration of competencies such as communication, teamwork, and problem-solving. Try to structure your CV to highlight these skills, using specific examples of how you’ve applied them in past experiences, ideally with quantifiable outcomes where possible.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to tell your story and convey your passion for public service. Discuss why you want to work for Wiltshire and how your values align with their mission. Be genuine and let your enthusiasm shine through—this can really set you apart from other candidates.
How to prepare for a job interview at Wiltshire
✨Get to Know Public Sector Values
Before your interview with Wiltshire, dig deep into their mission and values, especially how they align with public service and community impact. Understand the key policies or initiatives they are involved in – you’ll want to show that you genuinely care about serving the community.
✨Brush Up on Regulatory Knowledge
Brush up on the regulations, laws, and compliance standards relevant to the role you’re applying for. Since this is the government and public sector, they might throw technical questions related to policy frameworks or project management best practices that you'll need to navigate day-to-day.
✨Highlight Teamwork and Collaboration
The government sector thrives on collaboration. Be ready to discuss how you've successfully worked in diverse teams or involved stakeholders in your projects. Show us how you bring people together to get a common goal achieved – that's what public service is all about!
✨Prepare Real-Life Examples
Craft a few STAR (Situation, Task, Action, Result) stories that demonstrate your experience in similar roles. Whether it’s a project that made a difference in the community or a challenging situation you managed, be ready to express how your skills and experiences make you a valuable asset for Wiltshire.
