Senior Democratic Services Officer

Senior Democratic Services Officer

 

Directorate:           Resources

Department:         Electoral, Democratic & Civic Services

Salary:                   Grade E - £29,093 to £32,654 per year (pay award pending)

Contract:               Permanent

Hours:                   37 hours per week

Location:               Ilkeston Town Hall, Wharncliffe Road, Ilkeston, Derbyshire DE7 5RP

Hybrid working available

 

Shape Local Democracy – Join Us as a Senior Democratic Services Officer

Are you ready for your next career move in local government?  Do you have a strong background in governance and a passion for supporting democratic processes?  We are looking for a Senior Democratic Services Officer to join our dedicated team and play a key role in supporting elected Members and council committees.

 

About the Role

As a Senior Democratic Services Officer, you will provide expert advice and governance support across the council, working closely with elected Members and senior officers. You will be responsible for managing and advising a range of committees, including scrutiny functions, and ensuring compliance with the council’s constitution and decision-making processes.

 

In addition to your core responsibilities, you will lead and contribute to project work aimed at enhancing democratic services and improving the efficiency and effectiveness of our governance arrangements.  You will play an active role in identifying opportunities for service improvement and implementing best practice.

 

You will also support the Mayor and Deputy Mayor in their civic duties and assist with electoral services during elections, working alongside the Electoral, Democratic and Civic Services Manager.

 

This is a fantastic opportunity to be at the heart of local democracy, contributing to transparent and effective decision-making that impacts our community.

 

What We are Looking For

We are seeking a proactive and knowledgeable professional with:

• Proven experience in democratic or governance services within a local authority
• Strong understanding of local government constitutions and committee procedures
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• The ability to manage complex workloads and competing priorities
• A collaborative approach and confidence in advising senior stakeholders

 

A relevant qualification in public administration or democratic services (e.g. ADSO Diploma) is desirable but not essential.

 

Why Join Us?

• Be part of a small, friendly, and supportive team
• Make a real impact in your community
• Enjoy flexible working arrangements and a strong work-life balance
• Access to professional development and training opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Politically Restricted Post: This is a politically restricted post under the Local Government and Housing Act 1989, which imposes limitations on the political activities of the post holder.
• Evening Meetings: You will be required to attend evening meetings (from 6.30 pm).

 

Benefits of Working for Us

In addition to a competitive salary, you will also have access to:

• Generous annual leave package – 29 days annual leave (rising to 33 days after 5 years’ continuous service) plus 8 bank holidays a year
• Free workplace car parking within the Borough
• Opportunities for training, learning and continuous professional development
• Family friendly flexible and hybrid/home working policies available
• Option to join the Local Government Pension Scheme (LGPS) plus access to a salary sacrifice scheme for added voluntary pension contributions
• Discounted leisure membership with the Fit for Work scheme
• Access to an employee benefits discount and salary sacrifice scheme

 

For an informal discussion about this exciting opportunity please contact Danielle Hughes, Head of Law and Governance on 0115 9071136. 

 

The closing date for applications is 22 June 2025 at midnight. 

 

How to Apply

 

Interested candidates can apply with a CV and a supporting statement, clearly demonstrating suitability and experience for the role.  

 

You will be requested to provide some basic information before you upload your CV.

 

For further information about working for Erewash Borough Council and how to apply for this job please visit our website at https://www.erewash.gov.uk/jobs-section/jobs.html

 

Alternatively, an application form and job description are available from Human Resources, Erewash Borough Council, Town Hall, Wharncliffe Road, Ilkeston, Derbyshire DE7 5RP, Telephone: 0115 931 6000 (24 hr. voicemail) or e-mail: jobs@erewash.gov.uk

 

If you are a current employee of Erewash Borough Council and you wish to apply for this vacancy, you must apply through your Employee Self Service account.  If you do not have access to Employee Self Service, you must complete a paper or word version of Erewash Borough Council’s job application form.

 

The Council is positive about disabled people and those who meet the essential shortlisting requirements will be guaranteed an interview.

 

The Council also supports the Armed Forces Covenant and those who have previously worked in the armed forces and meet the essential shortlisting criteria will be guaranteed an interview.

 

Please ensure that you make it clear on your application form that you wish to be considered under these criteria.