Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Officer

The Electoral Commission has an exciting opportunity for an Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Officer to join their team!

Job Title: Equality, Diversity and Inclusion OfficerDirectorate: Devolution, Governance and LawStarting salary: £34,839Job Type: Permanent/Full time (flexible working options are available)Location: Edinburgh

Closing date: Friday 8 November at 5pm

Working at the Electoral Commission:

The Electoral Commission is the independent body which oversees elections and regulates political finance in the UK. We work to promote public confidence in the democratic process and to ensure its integrity.

Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Officer - The Role:

The role will support the Commission’s aim to increase public confidence in the democratic system and ensure its integrity. Our vision is for people to trust, value and take part in elections. This is only achievable if we have an inclusive culture with diverse workforce representation. We also need to take an evidence-based approach to understanding and responding to the diverse needs of the electorate, considering equality impacts in everything we do to make democracy accessible to everyone across the UK.

Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Officer – Key Responsibilities:

- Stay updated on EDI legislation, source information, and manage internal communications to raise awareness and educate staff

- Gather evidence for reports and action plans to ensure compliance with statutory obligations

- Research best practices and promote key inclusion dates, collaborating with teams to embed inclusion

- Implement the Commission's EDI strategy and ensure compliance across the organisation

- Identify and promote actions to support under-represented groups and provide reports for committees

- Support staff networks, addressing challenges, and fostering positive change

- Collect and analyse EDI data, working with teams to assess the impact of EDI initiatives

Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Officer – You:

- Knowledge of UK Equality Legislation: Ability to provide informed advice on relevant laws and regulations

- Independent Working and Collaboration: Capable of working autonomously, as well as supporting teams with the implementation of various EDI initiatives

- Relationship Building: Skilled in developing and maintaining effective working relationships with teams across the four Nations and significant partnerships with a range of stakeholders, including staff networks, committee representatives and external partners

- Analytical and Impact Assessment: Competent in identifying equality impacts and using data to influence decisions and strategies

- Influence and Conflict Resolution: Ability to influence others, manage challenges and enable staff groups to achieve EDI objectives

- Communication and Advocacy: Responsible for promoting and raising awareness of EDI to ensure positive change and foster inclusive working practices

Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Officer – Benefits:

The Electoral Commission offers excellent terms and conditions, including:

- Flexible working hours

- Remote working

- Opportunity to join the Civil Service pension arrangements (dependent on scheme rules)

Application Process:

Anonymous CV: To adhere to our commitment to anonymous recruitment, ensure all references to educational institutions (years of attendance for primary and secondary education) and personal information are removed. This allows us to assess candidates based solely on their knowledge and skills, free from bias related to background, gender, or ethnicity.

We want to attract the broadest range of talented people who are passionate about democracy. The more diverse our workforce, the better we can adapt to and reflect the needs of society. We welcome applications from all backgrounds and as a staff member you will become part of an inclusive culture, where you will have the opportunity to achieve your full potential and enhance your career through learning and development.

Closing date: Friday 8 November at 5pm

Interviews will be held w/c 25 November 2024. All candidates with a disability are guaranteed an interview where they meet the minimum requirements of the role.

We may use video conferencing tools for the interviews. We will confirm details with shortlisted candidates. Adjustments can be made for candidates during the recruitment process if needed.

To apply for the Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Officer position, please submit your CV along with a supporting statement outlining your relevant skills and experience. Click ‘apply’ now to be considered for this exciting opportunity!