Opportunities

Job Title: Parish Clerk & Responsible Financial Officer

Location: Hazlemere, Buckinghamshire, United Kingdom

Salary: SCP range 24 – 28 (£33,024—£40,221 pro rata) (depending on experience)

Job Type: Part-time (30 hours per week), Permanent

Working Hours: Monday to Friday (Flexible hours within the week), some evening work will be required to attend council meetings.

About Us: We are a vibrant and close-knit community nestled in the heart of Buckinghamshire. Our parish council is dedicated to serving the needs of our residents and maintaining the beauty and vibrancy of Hazlemere.

Job Description: We are seeking an organised, motivated, and efficient Parish Clerk who will also undertake the role of Responsible Financial Officer (RFO) to join our team. This dual role is pivotal to the smooth operation of the Council, providing essential administrative support and ensuring robust financial management. The successful candidate will work closely with council members, local organisations, and residents to ensure the effective delivery of our services and initiatives.

Key Responsibilities:

• Prepare agendas, minutes, and reports for council meetings. Ensure the smooth running of these meetings and implement council decisions promptly.
• Lead and line manage 3 members of staff.
• Handle all correspondence on behalf of the Council, including emails, letters, and phone calls. Ensure timely responses and appropriate follow up actions.
• Maintain accurate records and archives of all council documents, including meeting minutes, correspondence, and statutory records.
• Assist in the planning and execution of council projects and initiatives, ensuring all activities are well coordinated and documented.
• Develop and manage the Council’s budget, ensuring accurate forecasting and monitoring.
• Oversee all financial transactions, including payments, receipts, and payroll. Ensure all financial records are maintained in accordance with statutory requirements and best practices.
• Prepare for and manage the internal and external audit processes, ensuring compliance with all relevant regulations and standards.
• Identify and apply for grants and funding opportunities to support council projects and initiatives.
• Act as the primary point of contact for parishioners and external organisations. Address enquiries and concerns with professionalism and courtesy.
• Maintain and update the Council’s website and social media channels, ensuring information is current and accessible.
• Organise and facilitate community events and consultations to encourage public participation in council activities.
• Ensure the Council adheres to all legal and regulatory requirements, including data protection, health and safety, and employment law.
• Assist in the development and implementation of council policies and procedures, ensuring they reflect best practices and legislative requirements.
• Identify and mitigate risks associated with council operations and projects.
• Provide administrative support and advice to the Council and its committees. Prepare briefing materials and conduct research to inform council decisions.
• Keep up to date with changes in legislation and best practices affecting the Council. Advise the Council on necessary adjustments to policies and procedures.
• Promote continuous professional development within the Council, organising training sessions and workshops as needed.

Person Specification:

Essential:

• Previous experience in a similar administrative or financial role.
• Strong organisational and time management skills, with the ability to prioritise tasks effectively.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with a high level of attention to detail.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and financial software.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Knowledge of local government procedures and regulations.

Desirable:

• Qualification in local Council administration (CiLCA) or willingness to work towards this.
• Experience in a local government setting.
• Familiarity with parish council operations and responsibilities.
• Knowledge of accounting software used by local councils.

Benefits

• Competitive salary commensurate with experience and qualifications.
• Flexible working hours.
• Opportunities for professional development and training.
• A supportive and collaborative working environment.
• Pension scheme and other benefits as per Council policy.
• The chance to make a meaningful impact on the local community.
• Access to a range of wellbeing tools and services.
• 25 days annual leave (including 2 days statutory), plus bank holidays. Prorated.
• Free on site car parking.

How to Apply:

If you are enthusiastic about serving your local community and possess the skills and attributes outlined above, we would love to hear from you. Please submit your CV in the first instance to the Parish Clerk’s email ([email protected]).

Application Deadline: 17 July 2024. The Council reserves the right to close this advertisement before the specified date in the event of a sufficient number of applicants.

Interview date: Late July 2024 (subject to change)

Hazlemere Parish Council is committed to equality of opportunity and diversity in employment. We welcome applications from all suitably qualified individuals regardless of race, gender, disability, age, sexual orientation, religion, or belief.