Opportunities

Location: Cedar Barn, Hazlemere, Buckinghamshire, United Kingdom

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

Job Type: Part-time or Full time will be considered with a range of (30 hours – 37 per week),  Working pattern to be agreed with the successful candidate. This is a Permanent role and is office based.

Working Hours:  Our office is open Monday to Friday; some evening work will be required to attend Council meetings as part of the working week.  Working pattern to be agreed with the successful candidate.

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. Further details can be found on our website: www.hazlemereparishcouncil.gov.uk

Job Description: We are seeking an individual with proven leadership skills, who is organized and highly motivated to join us in a wide ranging and interesting  role  as our  Parish Clerk.  This role is pivotal to the smooth operation of the Council, providing essential leadership to our Parish Council team and ensuring that administrative support and robust financial management is given to Hazlemere Parish Council. The successful candidate will work closely with councilors, residents, contractors and our stakeholders to ensure the effective delivery of our services and initiatives.

Key Responsibilities:

• Provide effective leadership and line management to 4 members of staff
• Act as the primary point of contact for parishioners and external Address enquiries and concerns with professionalism and courtesy
• Assist in the development and implementation of Council policies and procedures, ensuring they reflect best practices and legislative requirements
• Be responsible for managing correspondence on behalf of the Council, including emails, letters, and phone Ensure timely responses and appropriate follow up actions are taken.
• 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 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
• Prepare agendas, minutes, and reports for Council Ensure the smooth running of these meetings and implement Council decisions promptly
• Maintain accurate records and archives of all Council documents, including meeting minutes, correspondence, and statutory records.
• 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
• Identify and mitigate risks associated with Council operations and projects
• Provide administrative support and advice to the Council and its 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, organizing training sessions and workshops as needed

Person Specification:

Essential:

• Previous Leadership experience of managing and developing a team in a similar
• Strong organisational and time management skills, with the ability to prioritise tasks
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with a high level of attention to detail
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and some knowledge of financial systems
• Ability to work under pressure and meet tight deadlines
• Ability to successfully work and engage with a wide range of stakeholders.
• Previous experience of leading and managing projects through to a successful conclusion.

Desirable:

• Qualification in local Council administration (CiLCA) or willingness to work towards this
• Knowledge of local government procedures and regulations
• 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
• Opportunities for professional development and training
• A supportive and collaborative working
• 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 Pro rata
• Free on site car parking

How to Apply:

• If you are enthusiastic about serving our 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 [email protected]
• Application Deadline: 30 September 2024. The Council reserves the right to close this advertisement before the specified date in the event of a sufficient number of applicants. The Council may conduct a sift of applications against the stated criteria upon which successful candidates will be invited for interview.
• Interview dates: Mid October 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.