7 January 2025Following a very competitive recruitment campaign and with thanks to all those who applied for the role, we are delighted to announce the appointment of Lara Jacob PSLCC as our new
Branch Empowerment Officer, a pivotal role created to lead our branch empowerment initiative. Lara, a skilled clerk with experience of representing our members on our National Forum, will drive a two-year pilot programme aimed at supporting and invigorating SLCC’s county branches across England and Wales.
This initiative will include a comprehensive review of the purpose, function, effectiveness, and value of branches, taking into account the evolving landscape post-pandemic. Lara’s work will focus on creating new opportunities for collaboration, providing tailored support, and enhancing the overall experience for SLCC members.
Lara joined the clerking family in December 2016 when she became Clerk to Stockton Heath Parish Council in Cheshire. She quickly earned her Certificate in Local Council Administration (CiLCA) and later completed Levels 4 and 5 in Community Governance, all while supporting smaller councils and representing the Cheshire Branch on the SLCC National Forum. Her varied career has included roles as a teacher, librarian, power station guide, and even a stint on the checkouts at Asda. Outside clerking, Lara loves cricket, camping, and occasionally working remotely from her local campsite. Lara’s curiosity, experience, and enthusiasm make her the ideal choice to lead SLCC’s new Branch Empowerment initiative.
Lara said, “I’m thrilled to be joining SLCC in this exciting new position and looking forward to working closely with members to help them thrive, share best practices, and build even stronger local networks. A big fan of train travel, I hope to get on the rails and come meet members at branch meetings as part of this new adventure. I’ll be leaving Stockton Heath behind but will continue to clerk a small parish to stay connected with the clerk family.”
Rob Smith, SLCC Chief Executive, highlighted the significance of this initiative, “The creation of the Branch Empowerment Officer role is a significant new commitment in our efforts to provide support to our branches and branch officers. Recognising the changes in ways of working since the pandemic, it signifies our determination to try to find out what works best for our members in terms of branch support to them. Lara’s wealth of experience and passion for supporting the clerk community make her the perfect choice to lead this important project.”
We look forward to seeing Lara’s work make a lasting impact on SLCC branches, empowering members to achieve more together. She will begin her new role on Tuesday 4 March 2025. Stay tuned for updates as this exciting initiative unfolds!
