Partnership & Policy Support Officer

Please apply online via the link provided. Please note, we do not accept CVs submitted without a fully completed online application form.

Are you an organised and confident individual who can work at a fast pace with a high level of concentration and an eye for detail? We’re looking for a talented and motivated individual to undertake a dual role providing policy and partnership support to both the Special Interest Group of Municipal Authorities (SIGOMA) and the collaborative work programme of the Yorkshire & Humber Councils (Y&H Councils) and supporting group of Chief Executives.

SIGOMA and the Yorkshire Leaders Board Secretariat are both hosted by Barnsley Metropolitan Borough Council in the Office of the Chief Executive and a such this exciting new role will provides an opportunity for the right person to support both teams in all aspects of their collaborative work working at the heart of a high-performing organisation.

Barnsley is a place of possibilities. We’re proud to be a double award-winning Council of the Year (LGC and MJ 2023), recognised for our bold thinking, innovation, and commitment to delivering for our communities.

We’re looking for a Partnership and Policy Support Officer to join the Office of the Chief Executive and be part of a high-performing, inclusive team that values integrity, collaboration and impact.

Your Role:

· To undertake policy and partnership support for Y&H Councils and SIGOMA, including emailing stakeholders on various issues, organising meetings, coordinating briefing papers and agendas and dealing with any other enquiries.

· Support on communications, media management and press enquiries on behalf of SIGOMA and Y&H Councils, including social media and websites.

· To liaise negotiate and support collaborative working with colleagues and elected members from across SIGOMA and Y&H Councils, including sustaining effective working relationships with members, senior officers and partner organisations.

· Assist with research, analysis and policy work relating to both Y&H Councils and SIGOMA on behalf of the Chairs and Officers, preparing reports and analysis of issues as necessary.

· Provide clear and accurate minutes and actions from relevant Y&H Councils and SIGOMA meetings, including the Yorkshire Leaders Board and Chief Executive’s meetings, SIGOMA Full Members Meetings, the SIGOMA Chief Executive’s Network and relevant Officer Meetings.

What we offer:

· The chance to work with and support SIGOMA’s influential Chair, Cllr Sir Stephen Houghton CBE, Leader of Barnsley Council, as well as Yorkshire and Humber Councils lead Chief Executive, Sarah Norman, Chief Executive of Barnsley Council.

· The opportunity to support the work of regular meetings of SIGOMA Leaders and Chief executives and represent urban areas during a once-in-a-decade opportunity to make local government funding fairer to redress a decade of disproportionate cuts suffered during austerity.

· The opportunity to work within the Office of our Chief Executive, known for their excellence and leadership within Local Government.

· The opportunity to support the collaborative works including the Yorkshire Leaders Boad and Regional Chief Executives Group at a pivotal and exciting time for the region.

· A supportive and collaborative work culture where your contributions are valued and will shape the work of our organisation.

· Competitive salary and benefits package, including flexible working arrangements and generous holiday allowances.

· Varied and interesting work with your portfolio built around your strengths and commensurate with your ability.

Requirements

· You are an applicant who has begun or is interested in pursuing a career in policy, research or communications.

· You have experience of effective collaboration and partnership working with colleagues from across a range of organisations.

· You have experience of working in an administrative function, coordinating meetings and appointments and taking minutes.

· You will put your strong interpersonal skills to use, building relationships with stakeholders.

· You can manage a series of essential delegated tasks whilst also contributing to wider planning discussions.

To find out more, contact Sam Blakeman (SIGOMA) samblakeman@barnsley.gov.uk or Peter Ollerenshaw (Yorkshire and Humber Councils) peterollerenshaw@barnsley.gov.uk or complete the online application.

Interviews have been scheduled to take place on Thursday 23rd October.