Strategic Relationships and Democracy Manager

Position: Strategic Relationships and Democracy Manager

Location: Basildon, Essex (Hybrid)

Role: Temporary & Full Time

Duration: Ongoing

Rate: Up to £35 per hour depending on experience

The Role

You will provide strategic direction and management of the Chief Executive’s and Committee, Civic and Member Support functions, providing personal support to the Chief Executive and Leader of the Council, navigating through a complex and demanding political environment. In addition, you will support the Executive Director of Resources & Governance and the Assistant Director of Legal & Democracy in making arrangements to ensure that the Council’s governance arrangements are legally compliant and fit for purpose, applying detailed and relevant knowledge of local government legislation and local procedures and policies where appropriate.

In this pivotal role you will lead the team to provide proactive, collaborative, consistent and effective support to the Chief Executive, Corporate Leadership Team (CLT), and Leader of the Council to facilitate achievement of the Corporate Plan and other significant corporate priorities.

The successful candidate will recognise the high-profile nature of the work of the CLT and ensure that all work emanating from this source is of the highest standard. This includes being aware of the main issues facing the Council and recognising the need to be aware of any particularly sensitive issues and dealing with them appropriately.

What are we looking for?

• Previous experience within a local authority/ public sector setting in a similar job role
• Ability to present to a wide range of stakeholders
• Expertise and comprehensive knowledge of local authority decision-making and governance arrangements and able to advise senior officers and Councillors on the constitutional requirements of the council’s decision making
• Strong political awareness, identifying issues and risks and ensuring lead officers and members are briefed on relevant matters
• Excellent communication and relationship management skills
• Previous experience writing comprehensive reports for consideration by the Corporate Leadership Team and at Council, Cabinet and Committee meetings
• Effective line management skills, leading by example with the ability to motivate and nurture team members

Working Hours

This is a full-time position with 36.25 working hours per week. Please note this is hybrid working opportunity with the expectation of being in the office at least 3 days per week, as well as for evening meetings as and when required.